What are the responsibilities and job description for the Product Development Assistant position at PISTOLA Denim?
About Pistola:
Pistola is a Los Angeles-based denim and lifestyle brand known for its elevated, effortlessly cool essentials. We focus on quality, fit, and design that feels accessible yet aspirational. As we continue to grow, we’re looking for a proactive and detail-oriented Product Development Assistant to support our fast-paced team.
Job Summary:
The Product Development Assistant is responsible for supporting the end-to-end development process from concept through production handoff. This role helps maintain calendars, track sample status, coordinate with vendors, and ensure accurate communication across design, tech, and production teams. The ideal candidate is highly organized, deadline-driven, and eager to grow within the product development function of a fashion-forward brand.
**This position is based onsite M-F at our Vernon, CA HQ.
Key Responsibilities:
Sample Management
- Track all prototypes- P1 and P2, SMS, and pre-production samples across multiple categories
- Ensure timely receipt and organization of samples for fittings, reviews, and market meetings
Tracker
- Create and maintain sample tracking charts and update internal systems accordingly
- Host and participate in weekly meetings with cross-functional partners- ensure agenda/topics is published in advance of meeting for effectiveness
Vendor Communication & Coordination
- Communicate daily with overseas vendors on development timelines, sample requests, and revision
- Submit tech packs, artwork, and updates to vendors and follow up on pending developments
- Monitor lab dips, strike-offs, trims, and fabric approvals and escalate delays when needed
Calendar & Timeline Management
- Maintain seasonal development calendars and ensure all key deadlines are met
- Schedule fit sessions, design reviews, and milestone meetings in coordination with cross-functional partners
Data Entry & Systems Management
- Input and maintain accurate style information in PLM or internal tracking systems
- Organize digital assets including reference images, fabric info, lab dips, and sample approvals
Cross-Functional Support
- Partner closely with Design, Tech, and Production teams to keep development aligned and progressing
- Assist with showroom and market preparations, including tagging, labeling, and organizing samples
- Partner with Quality Control to ensure proper techniques/outcomes in regard to wash and design of garments.
- Create and maintain binder for proper production handoff
- Audit and/or check for compliance with all testing “care label” instructions
- Maintain proper margin targets with cost effective options
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Fashion, Merchandising, Product Development, or related field is preferred
- 1–2 years of experience in product development, production, or a related role in the apparel industry. Import experience is preferred.
- Strong understanding of product lifecycle and basic garment construction
- Experience with PLM systems or tracking tools (e.g., Excel, Illustrator, Google Suite)
- Highly organized and detail-oriented with ability to multitask and manage deadlines
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- A positive, can-do attitude and a collaborative work style
