Product Development Associate

KULE is looking for an energetic Product Development Associate to support our quickly growing business. This role reports directly to the Director of PD/Production and provides support to team members in the Design department. The ideal candidate will be a detail oriented individual with great communication and project coordination skills. They will assist in all areas of the departments and work cross functionally with Design and Production teams. 

Responsibilities include but are not limited to: 

• Track and receive all seasonal development packages from overseas. Alert development team to the status of when packages are expected to be delivered.
• Create and Manage all proto and SMS tech packs and ensure all correct information is entered such as specs, material, trims and finishing details. 
• Assist in sending out materials for overseas developments, such as fabric, trims, reference samples, and create shipping packing slips. 
• Help QC all development for both proto and SMS. 
• Request and track all press samples post presentation/market. 
• Assist with setting up new styles in WIP chart and maintain updated information throughout the season. This includes style number, sketch, style descriptions, BOM.
• Attend design meetings and help develop seasonal CADs and graphics
• Support in launching trials for development techniques / concepts: quilting, printing, garment washing, as needed each season. Initiate communication with domestic vendors, give direction on the next step of trials, and monitor status updates.
• Participate in cross functional meetings with PD, Production, Design and Merchandising to review seasonal collections; assist with note taking.
• Attend design fittings (pre-fittings and post-fittings) when possible, to help facilitate the information flow of style updates. 
• Update seasonal trackers daily. 
• Closely monitor production calendar and status, including shipment of PPS, ECOM & PR samples, TOP samples, and bulk shipments 
• Communicate daily with vendors to confirm bulk x-factory dates, sample timing, and troubleshoot potential issues 
• Monitor quality standards throughout production process and work with factories to improve issues

Requirements

• 4-5 years relevant experience in apparel and tech design 
• High level of proficiency in Adobe Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) with a strong eye for color and design and basic knowledge of graphic design 
• Basic knowledge of Excel/Google Sheets, ERP experience a plus
• Strong knowledge of technical design; knitting and patterning a plus
• Clear communication and problem solving skills 
• Must be extremely organized and detail-oriented, with an ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously 
• Thrives in a fast-paced and self-directed environment 
• Full time in office 
• Must love stripes :)

Benefits

• Competitive salary and clothing allowance with annual bonus eligibility
• Comprehensive benefits (medical, vision, dental) 
• Annual performance appraisal and compensation review 
• Vacation, personal, and holiday PTO 
• Beautiful Upper East Side office