The Product Developer II: Apparel will be assigned
specific product development collections and oversee all
development activity for these collections from design
hand-off through sales sample evaluation and into pre-
production. Must be able to operate at the macro
strategic level and most importantly interpret and
execute tactical initiatives and details during the
product creation cycle and ensuring that the
commercialization of each product meets design, fit, and
quality requirements. Working in collaboration with the
Director of Apparel, Apparel Product Line Managers and
both internal and external design, the Product Developer
II: Apparel must ensure products meet or exceed
expectations of users in accordance with industry best
practices.

The product Developer II: Apparel will oversee timelines,
prototype and fit reviews, product specifications,
product quality, costing, and production execution. Must
be able to manage indirect resources and have in depth
knowledge of patterns and construction techniques in
order to properly commercialize and meet expectations.

Essential Functions:
1. Documentation Development
Receive tech pack hand off from Design and oversee all
documentation updates and communication. Ensure
specification accuracy. Update Product Data systems,
internal and external customers, etc as needed with
product changes. Manage quality, cost, calendar, and
other relevant documentation. Manage file storage
locations.

2. Proactive Prototype Development
Direct and oversee domestic and/or overseas development
and manufacturing contractor(s). Active participant in
the internal fit process for all new, revised and carry-
in garments.

3. Prototype Review and Fit Session Management
Oversee all review meetings specific to assigned
development collections. Prepare agenda, room, product,
and goals in advance of meeting. Interface closely with
the specific Product Line Managers and the Design team
(internal and external) to resolve any design/quality
issues that arise during the development process. Make
tech pack updates, pattern adjustments, etc as needed
based on feedback from Review and Fit sessions. Clearly
communication changes to factories and ensure proper
execution. Overall, ensure that the development process
proceeds such that the project(s) meets key phase
approval dates and milestones.

4. Raw Material Development and Communication
Will participate collaboratively in the successful
conceptualize and/or receive new material(s) and trim(s)
for the company. Ensure clear communication to factories.

5. Product Safety & Quality Assurance
Work with the Black Diamond Quality Assurance group or
nominated testing agency to ensure that all required
testing and documentation are completed in a timely
manner and in accordance with the development calendar.
Ensure that the Quality Assurance Group, specific Product
Line Managers, the Design group to resolve any Product
Safety/Quality Assurance issues that arise during the
development and testing process. Will ensure that the
development product testing process proceeds such that
the project(s) meets key phase check points and
documentation requirements.

6. Product Costing and Margin Enhancement
Will work with the specific Product Line Managers,
Sourcing, and the Supply Chain Management group as well
as nominated suppliers and contractors to develop a
thorough understanding and complete documentation of
specific product costing (Bill of Materials (BOM’s), and
Free on Board Pricing (FOB’s). Will seek ways to lower
costs during development process and work to develop
projects to specified cost targets ensuring profitability
for the company.

Qualifications:

Education Required: Minimum of a Bachelor of Arts and/or
Science degree from an accredited University or College

Preferred: Professional training in Design, Development,
Merchandising and International Business disciplines.

Work Experience Required: Minimum of 4 years experience
as a product developer. Must have the proven ability to
understand design concepts and have a clear track record
of developing products that meet all development
objectives (Design, costing, quality and delivery). Must
have extensive experience working independently both
domestically and in Asia developing products with
contractors and material suppliers. He/She must be
comfortable negotiating costs and managing lead-times

Skills and General Experience:
Be self-directed, action-oriented, mature, confident,
decisive, creative problem solver always willing to think
outside the box. Must be persistent – doesn’t take ‘no’
for an answer and eager to search out solutions to the
challenge at hand that meet the business requirements.
Climber, skier, or outdoor enthusiast highly preferred.

Proven problem solving ability and mechanical aptitude.
Have a proven problem solving ability and the natural
inclination to think in three dimensions. Be an eternal
optimist and a strong team player. Must have the ability
to understand and create technical drawings and product
specifications. Preference for this position will be
given to those with excellent development experience
appropriate to the company. Must have relevant computer
expertise with Microsoft Office.

Proven Project/Timeline Management Skills.
Must have proven timeline/project management experience
and be disciplined details oriented, organized and have
the ability to multi-task in a group environment.

Communication skills.
Must have the ability to clearly, concisely and
accurately communicate technical product issues in both
written and verbal form. Be able to shift communication
styles to interact successfully with different types of
people.

Team Leader/Player.
Must value working in a team environment and strive to
contribute to the team’s success. Understands and
respects the unique roles that each member plays.

Travel.
Must be willing to travel to within the US and abroad

Required licenses: Valid Drivers License and Passport

To apply, please click on the "Apply Now" link below, and be sure to let us know you found this job on Malakye!