Product Developer

*This is a hybrid role based out of our HQ in Carlsbad, CA. In-office expectation is 3 days a week*.

We know from experience that the effects of an active life spent outdoors are profound and can be both the springboard and the foundation for a greater and lasting sense of well-being. And at prAna, we are committed to making products that help get you out there.

We believe in Nature’s power to better humanity and in humanity’s responsibility to do better by nature. Whether it’s going for a hike at sunrise or taking a walk at sunset, practicing yoga at the beach, or building a campfire after a day of surfing. Looking out from a rock you’ve just climbed or looking down from the wall you’ve just mastered. We believe the most important step you take on your journey to well-being is the one that takes you beyond your doorstep.

ABOUT THE POSITION

With a deep understanding of prAna's brand, The Product Developer is responsible for the overall execution and development of product, from concept through production with emphasis on category and performance materials within apparel. This position collaborates with the Product Development Manager, Technical Design, Materials, Design, Merchandising, Quality, and Production/Sourcing teams to execute product initiatives utilizing creative thinking and problem solving skills. The Product Developer coordinates approvals, data management, construction, fit, quality, vendor communication and costing which results in the commercial execution of products in their assigned categories.  The position manages and reports on the development of their category as it relates to the calendar, product quality, and margin with sustainability and target customer as a main focus in execution. The Product Developer performs at an independent, self-directed level with the ability to handle daily decisions while being a collaborative team player.

HOW YOU’LL MAKE A DIFFERENCE

• Manages the product lifecycle based on prAna’s development calendar and collaborates with Design, Merchandising, Product Development, Tech Design, Quality, Sourcing and Production teams to achieve commercial viability of designs.
• Proactively communicates deadlines with internal (Design, Merchandising, Product Development, Tech Design, Production,) and external teams (vendors and suppliers) to ensure product delivery dates are met.
• Proactively trouble-shoots issues regarding fabric characteristics, technical construction, product testing, fit, packaging, and functionality vs. style details.
• Communicates with Design team regarding tech packs and the garment’s construction specifications during initial development by reviewing, making suggestions, and monitoring timelines.
• Communicates with factories to ensure timely development of proto-types
• Maintains tracking of seasonal progress for associated approvals of all protos, trims, and fabrics to ensure prAna’s quality standards are met.
• Tracks and monitors artwork/print development and approval processes in conjunction with Graphic Designer and Designer.
• Executes and manages cost process by advising target FOBs, negotiating, and tracking cost submittals from factories.
• Builds, inputs, and maintains Full Circle (Product Lifecycle Management system) with product data.
• Counter-sources products to effectively build products at the best cost, quality, and compliance through the direction of sourcing department.
• Partners with other product developers and vendors to execute 3D assets needed seasonally
• In conjunction with the Merch team, maintains data integrity and product specifications for workbook, catalog, and on-line launches

YOU ARE

• Collaborative with a passion for building and maintaining strong relationships internally and externally.
• An outdoor, active, climbing, yoga, swim, surf or other customer driven enthusiast.
• Able to work autonomously and cross-functionally with ease.
• Agile and can work in a fast-paced environment adhering to plans and adapting quickly to change.

YOU HAVE

• Bachelor’s degree in Apparel &/or Textile Product Development, Merchandising or Design is recommended.
• 3-5+ years industry experience in Product Development
• Extensive knowledge of technical apparel construction, fabrics (knits & wovens) & their properties, and trims in the following (Men’s, Women’s  &/or Accessories) categories:  Outerwear, Mid-Layer, Performance, Activewear, Swimwear, Lifestyle, Sweaters, Dresses, Accessories
• Understanding of supply chain transparency and compliance
• Experience travelling internationally & domestically to evaluate vendor execution
• Proven results in costing and negotiating
• Proficient in:  PLM systems, Word, Excel, Adobe Illustrator, SharePoint

Salary Range: $71,000 - $118,000

#LI-JC1

#LI-Hybrid

We create versatile, stylish, and sustainable clothing and accessories that you can wear during every activity, every adventure, every day. How do we know? Because we base our designs on our own experiences. You see we’re more than makers, we’re doers—yogis, climbers, and world travelers—and we use our knowledge to make adventurous, free-spirited clothes that look good and play hard.

This job description is not meant to be an all-inclusive list of duties and responsibilities, but constitutes a general definition of the position's scope and function in the company.

Columbia Sportswear is an equal opportunity employer.  We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. The Know Your Rights poster is available here: https://www.eeoc.gov/poster  The pay transparency policy is available here: https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/OFCCP/pdf/pay-transp_%20English_formattedESQA508c.pdf  Columbia Sportswear is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please notify your recruiter.