L.L.Bean is seeking a Product Developer I to support the execution of line development and grow toward full ownership of a product category. In this role, you will collaborate with design, merchandising, and sourcing teams to ensure a smooth product development process. Responsibilities include managing systems, processes, samples, and quality standards to deliver exceptional products.
Requirements
- Fabric/textile experience required
- Proven understanding of the end-to-end product development process
Responsibilities
- Works with raw materials to identify new fabric development needs. Provide fabric development needs to mills and/or raw materials suppliers to develop materials that meet strategic direction and cost.
- Ensure Corp Merchant's vision is met through development of products that meet cost & margin targets, including attention to materials, construction, fit, wear/lab testing, performance & function.
- Develop/drive calendar to meet development timelines, production plans and delivery schedules for products and raw materials. Monitor to ensure all deadlines are met.
- Ensures fabric selection passes lab testing; meets cost target; is commercially viable and meets the original Design intent for hand feel, drape aesthetic.
- Works with key partners to determine vendors, ensuring best price, construction, quality, design, and cost/value relationship standards.
- Provides input into product research & testing, quality & fit specification to maintain product quality and reduce return rates.
- Maintains systems to support the development process.
Other
- This role requires a minimum of three days in the office at our Headquarters in Freeport, Maine.
- Conduct Market & customer research through focus groups, vendor/mill visits & field testing.
- Travel to trade shows for material sourcing.
- Travel to factories and mills to research construction techniques and material innovation.
- 1-3 years of relevant experience required
