Product Design - Project Freedom

In the Product Designer/Developer role, the focus lies on overseeing the creation and implementation of product lines of one or more of these categories: packs, bags, carriers, and accessories. Categories determined by business needs and employee skill set. In this hybrid Designer/Developer position, this individual plays a crucial role in ensuring that products are brought to market in a timely and cost-effective manner, all the while staying true to the product vision. Collaboration with colleagues from various departments is key to achieving these goals successfully.

The Product Designer/Developer position requires a multifaceted approach, involving not only technical expertise but also an understanding of customer demands and end-user preferences. By working closely with cross-functional teams, This Designer/Developer can incorporate diverse perspectives and insights into the product development process, ultimately leading to the creation of innovative and functional products. This collaborative effort is essential for aligning the final products with the company's values and vision, thus fulfilling the dual purpose of meeting business objectives, and making a positive impact on both customers and the environment.

This position reports to Business Development Director and is based out of our Chesapeake, VA office.

As the Product Designer/Developer, you will have an opportunity to:

• Execute a comprehensive product development strategy in alignment with company goals.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively to meet launch deadlines.
• Create and maintain tech packs through the development process until bulk ready.
• Create and maintain Bill of Materials (BOMs) and coordinate prototyping of assigned designs across the multiple business channels.
• Lead sourcing, cost negotiation, design, and final approval of all trims utilized in design.
• Partner with materials team in materials selection for all rolled goods utilized in design.
• Schedule and lead product team meetings with cross-functional teams, to coordinate project actions, mitigate project risks, and communicate challenges and potential solutions.
• Manage communication with contract designers by communicating calendar deadlines, organizing and participating in sample review meetings, and providing factory cost/construction feedback. Implement and manage factory development process improvements that increase workflow efficiency.
• Facilitate constructive feedback from factory and overseas development teams on construction and materials through regular product reviews.
• Maintain regular communication with factory contacts, overseas development team, and suppliers regarding project status, and calendar timing.
• Execute thorough factory cost BOM reviews and manage factory cost negotiation for assigned styles.
• Partner with factory and design teams to cost engineer assigned styles during factory direct development trips.
  
  

You Have

• Bachelor's degree in design or related field of study.
• 3-5 years experience in design and product development
• Extensive experience coordinating activities across multiple departments and stakeholders
• Excellent working knowledge of Illustrator, Excel, Word, Outlook
• Proven ability to coordinate across functional teams
• Past experience in the government and military sector, a plus.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to easily transition from macro thinking to micro thinking
• Good judgment with the ability to drive timely and sound decisions
• Commitment to excellence and high standards
• Ability to lead a meeting and keep the topics relevant
• Excellent problem recognition and collaboration skills for resolution
• Ability to escalate issues in a concise and timely manner
• Proven ability to handle multiple projects and meet deadlines
  
  

Pay Range

Annual Salary: $65,000.00 - $75,000.00

The actual annual salary offered to a candidate will be based on variables including experience, geographic location, education, and skills/achievements, and will be mutually agreed upon at the time of offer.

We offer a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits including: medical and dental, vision, disability and life insurance, 401K, PTO, paid holidays, gear discounts and the ability to add value to an exciting mission!

Our Postings are not intended for distribution to or use in any jurisdiction, country or territory where such distribution or use would violate local law or would subject us to any regulations in another jurisdiction, country or territory. We reserve the right to limit our Postings in any jurisdiction, country or territory.

Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Females/Protected Veteran/Disabled