Apparel Product Developer

Who We Are:

Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today.

JOB MISSION:

The Apparel Developer will help bring innovative, high-quality products to life. In this role, you will support the activities within the product development process from concept through commercialization, partnering cross-functionally with multiple stakeholders within R&D along with Design, Product Management, Supply Planning and Sourcing to deliver against product execution, cost and timeline goals. A creative thinker and hands-on executor, you will apply technical knowledge and problem-solving skills towards product creation and excellence metrics. Your attention to detail, strong communication skills and ability to manage complex calendars within cross functional dynamics will be critical to your success.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Manage assigned products from concept through to product approval, ensuring alignment with critical deadlines, specifications, sustainability standards, performance metrics, and profitability goals.
• Collaborate with Design and PM to translate aesthetic concepts into functional, manufacturable products.
• Contributes to seasonal vendor evaluations, focusing on R&D deliverables, costing, and product quality. Determine appropriate levels of escalation, communications and transparency within R&D Management for necessary corrective intervention.
• Partner closely within extended R&D organization Technical Design, Materials, Product Testing, Color to identify optimal source allocations are achieved based on product build requirements.
• Manage Tech Packs, BOM accuracy and data integrity within internal and external users.
• Support in troubleshooting issues related to quality and manufacturability, proposing or collaborating with key stakeholders for creative solutions.
• Understand cost implications and analysis of materials, trim componentry and executional requests within product category.
  
  

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:

• 1-3 years of experience with a bachelor’s degree in Product Development or Fashion Design, experience with working with global vendor source base a plus.
• Knowledge of apparel development and manufacturing processes, including timelines and coordination of various stakeholders.
• Demonstrates the ability to balance and effectively carry a significant workload, maintaining focus, organization, and prioritization across multiple projects and responsibilities.
• Willingness and ability to travel globally as needed to support system implementation, training, troubleshooting, and capability building.
• Experience with PLM systems, Excel, Adobe and Microsoft 360
• Background in apparel performance / sport, bodywear or sportswear categories preferred.
  
  

Regular Associate Benefits

Our products are only as good as the people we hire, so we make sure to hire the best and treat them accordingly. New Balance offers a comprehensive traditional benefits package including three options for medical insurance as well as dental, vision, life insurance and 401K. We also proudly offer a slate of more nontraditional perks – opportunities like online learning and development courses, tuition reimbursement, $100 monthly student loan support and various mentorship programs – that encourage our associates to grow personally as they develop professionally. You’ll also enjoy a yearly $1,000 lifestyle reimbursement, 4 weeks of vacations, 12 holidays and generous parental leave, because work-life balance is more than just a buzzword – it’s part of our culture.

Temporary associates are provided three options for medical insurance as well as dental and vision insurance and an associate discount.

Part time associates are provided 401k, short term disability, a yearly $300 lifestyle reimbursement and an associate discount.

Flexible Work Schedule

For decades we have fostered a unique culture founded on our values with a particular focus on in-person teamwork and collaboration. Our North American hybrid model encourages rich in-person experiences, showcasing our commitment to teamwork and connection, while maintaining flexibility for associates. New Balance Associates currently work in office three days per week (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday). Our offices are fully open, and amenities are available across our North American office locations. To continue our focus on hybrid work we have introduced “Work from Anywhere” (WFA) for four weeks per calendar year. This model will help us enhance our culture while continuing to maintain elements of flexibility.

Equal Opportunity Employer

New Balance provides equal opportunities for all current and prospective associates to ensure that employment, training, compensation, transfer, promotion and other terms, conditions and privileges of employment are provided without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, handicap, genetic information and/or status as an Armed Forces service medal veteran, recently separated veteran, qualified disabled veteran or other protected veteran, or any other protected status.