Location: Carlsbad, CA (Hybrid/Onsite preferred)
Employment Type: Freelance / Contract
We are seeking a Freelance Product Developer with strong experience in women’s apparel to support the end?to?end development process from concept through production. The ideal candidate has a proven background working with performance and lifestyle apparel, understands calendar-driven development, and can collaborate closely with design, technical design, and sourcing to deliver high-quality, brand-right product on time.
Key Responsibilities:
- Own the product development process for assigned women’s apparel categories from design handoff through bulk production.
- Translate design intent into clear development requirements, ensuring feasibility, cost targets, and quality standards are met.
- Create, update, and maintain product specifications, BOMs, and development trackers throughout the season.
- Partner with design and technical design on prototype reviews, fit sessions, and sample comments to ensure aesthetic, fit, and construction align with brand standards.
- Manage development timelines, tracking all key milestones and proactively flagging risks to calendar.
- Coordinate with factories/vendors on sample requests, proto/fit/PP/TOP samples, and execution of revisions.
- Support material selections and approvals, including fabric, trims, and color standards in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
- Review and negotiate costing with vendors to achieve margin targets while maintaining quality and design integrity.
- Ensure all styles meet performance, quality, and durability expectations prior to production confirmation.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date product information across all internal systems and tools.
Qualifications:
- 3+ years of experience in product development for apparel, with a strong focus on women’s product; performance or activewear experience is a plus.
- Solid understanding of garment construction, fabrics, trims, and manufacturing processes.
- Experience working directly with overseas factories and vendors, including sample development and costing.
- Proficiency with development tools and PLM or similar systems; strong skills in Excel and basic tech pack programs.
- Ability to manage multiple styles and seasons simultaneously while meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong communication and follow-through skills, with a collaborative, solution-oriented mindset.
- Detail-driven with a strong sense of product quality, fit, and brand-right aesthetic for women’s apparel.
Additional Details:
- Freelance/contract opportunity with flexibility based on project needs.
- Onsite or hybrid presence in Carlsbad, CA preferred to attend fittings, product reviews, and cross-functional meetings.
