Materials Development | Materials Specialist - Product Development

Job Summary: We are seeking a Materials Specialist to oversee the end-to-end materials creation process for internal or external product production. The role focuses on ensuring timely development of materials in line with critical dates, product specs, sustainability, performance, and profitability targets. You will manage documentation, sampling, prototyping, and technical advisement, while monitoring market trends and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams for successful commercialization. Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree preferred (alternatives accepted: PhD or Law +1yr; Master's +0-3yrs; Associate's +1-3yrs; High School +3-5yrs)
• Strong technical expertise in textiles, materials science, apparel construction, and manufacturing processes
• Excellent problem-solving, organization, and time management skills; able to juggle multiple projects and deadlines
• Proven communication and interpersonal abilities; able to collaborate effectively with product, design, sourcing, and manufacturing teams

Responsibilities:

• Identify and research new materials, textiles, technologies, and trends-including sustainable and innovative options
• Collaborate with design and development teams to translate concepts into material specifications and align on material selections
• Source/select materials, trims, and findings, considering performance, look, cost, and lead times
• Oversee sample development and testing; analyze performance data to ensure materials meet quality, integrity, and design goals
• Maintain accurate documentation: technical specs, testing outcomes, prototypes, and production guidelines
• Serve as technical advisor on materials to Product Developers, and work with Manufacturing on cost targets and process improvements

This role offers the chance to make a tangible impact on the materials pipeline and help shape innovative products for the future. If you are proactive, organized, and passionate about materials science and apparel, we encourage you to apply.