Lead Technical Raw Material Developer- Crafted Series /USA

Position Details:

Title: Lead Technical Raw Material Developer- Crafted Series/USA
Department: Global Product Development, Advanced Development R&D
Reports to: Sr. Manager Product R&D Advanced Development
Location: Dearborn, MI
Job Classification: Hybrid
FLSA: Exempt
Job Band: Professional

Job Summary

The Lead Technical Raw Material Developer - Crafted Series/USA supports Carhartt’s Product strategy by driving innovation and commercialization in fiber and fabric development for US Manufacturing through the Crafted Series. This role leads research and development through new and existing US Mills/Suppliers ensuring all raw material developments meet quality, cost, and sustainability targets. They will build and maintain the US Mill/Supplier Matrix and processes to support US Manufacturing. The developer collaborates closely with procurement teams and suppliers to resolve issues and optimize the supply chain for US-based production. In this role, the developer will maintain all developments under the Crafted Series calendar; collaborate with new and existing suppliers for issue resolution; and communicate status updates to cross functional teams. The Lead Technical RM Developer builds and fosters strong collaborative relationships with internal and external partners.

Inspired by Hard Work

At Carhartt, the values of hard work—dependability, honesty, and trust—are rooted in the legacy of our founder, Hamilton Carhartt. His commitment to serving hardworking people continues to inspire everything we do. Guided by his legacy and our mission—We serve and protect all hardworking people by building durable products—we remain dedicated to upholding these principles in every decision we make and every product we create.

Associate Responsibilities

Spearhead new seasonal and developments: Setting standards for US manufacturing platforms. Analyze requirements and historical standards to ensure all fabrics meet quality and cost targets and are ready for bulk production handoff to Quality teams.

Establish Wash Standards: Develop and implement production wash standards for denim and washed products, focusing on chemistry, garment finishing, and testing protocols that align with US manufacturing practices.

Innovation Pipeline: Research and integrate new fiber, yarn, chemistry, and machinery technologies. Build a wash library to support seasonal business needs and incorporate sustainability initiatives relevant to US operations.

Testing & Troubleshooting: Analyze raw material test results promptly. Partner with suppliers and procurement teams to troubleshoot and resolve development failures, ensuring compliance with US standards (AATCC, ASTM, EPA, AFIRM RSL).

Supplier & Procurement Collaboration: Partner with procurement teams to select vendors based on capability, technology and US manufacturing requirements. Address issues related to manufacturing locations, pricing, minimum order quantities, delivery, and lead times.

Cross-Functional Communication: Participate in product development meetings to share updates, resolve issues, and ensure alignment with design and merchandising teams. Provide solutions and recommendations for issue resolution with guidance from management.

Relationship Building: Develop and maintain strong relationships with supply chain, US Manufacturing facilities, Procurement Teams, Quality, design, technical design, and color management.

Supplier Onboarding: Lead supplier meetings and onboard new suppliers to support innovation and expand the US supplier base.
US Mill/Supplier Matrix: Build and grow our US Mill/Supplier Matrix to support current and future developments. Expand our US onboarding processes and procedures in collaboration with the Procurement Teams.

Required Education

Bachelor’s degree in Textiles or related field; or equivalent years of related experience in lieu of degree.

Required Skills & Experience

Minimum seven years of experience in raw material development with a strong background in US apparel or textile manufacturing.

Expertise in fabric, trim and color development includes sustainable and eco-friendly practices/technologies.

Strong knowledge of textile and material testing protocols (AATCC, ASTM, and global norms); EPA and BPR requirements for applicable chemistries; and AFIRM RSL guidelines.

Proven experience collaborating with procurement teams and managing vendor relationships for US-based production.

Strong strategic and analytical skills and aptitude.

Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to be flexible, solution oriented and adaptive to changing priorities, as well as effectively manage and resolve conflict.

Effective communicator and presenter with a demonstrated ability to build and foster business relationships with cross functional teams, and internal and external partners.

Excellent organization and project management abilities.

Proficient in PLM, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Adobe Illustrator, etc.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Normal office environment, extended periods of sitting/standing or typing at a computer is required Willing to work some weekends if necessary. Light lifting may be required, 25LBS.

Up to 15% of travel domestically and/or internationally

This position has a Hybrid location: Associate will work on-site regularly as needed for work activities.
Carhartt is a tobacco free workplace.

#LI-Hybrid

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

All associates are required to understand and act in accordance with the Carhartt Core Values. Carhartt reserves the right to change, modify, suspend, interpret or cancel in whole or in any part, the job duties outlined above at any time and without advance notice to the employee.