Location: Dearborn, MI
Department: Global Product Development- Raw Materials
Reports to: Manager, Raw Material Development
Job Classification: Hybrid
FLSA: Exempt
Job Band: Professional
*Note: There are two roles open for Lead Technical Raw Material Developers. One role is specific to experience in Denim/Wash.
Job Summary
The Lead Technical Raw Material Developer supports the department vision and strategy to build fiber up raw material developments; leads research on new technologies and materials; and brings innovation through pipeline developments. In this role, the developer will maintain all developments under GTM calendar; collaborate with suppliers for issue resolution; and lead development meetings to communicate status updates to cross functional teams. The Lead Technical RM Developer builds and fosters strong collaborative relationships with internal and external partners.
We Are All Leaders at Carhartt
In our words and by our actions, we strive to emulate the hardworking example set forth by our founder, Hamilton Carhartt. We Lead Business by creating value, delivering on results, and making changes along the way. We Lead Self by being inclusive, recognizing that our differences make us stronger as we strive to build a better world, together, for all hardworking people. We Lead Others by communicating and clearly defining the path as we walk bravely into the future. Working at Carhartt, we are all given a seat at the table and the honor of continuing the legacy.
Representative Responsibilities
Lead new seasonal and resource developments through “setting the standards” for each platform developed by analyzing Carhartt requirements, end use, and historical standards. Ensure all developments can meet Carhartt quality requirements, within cost targets, and successfully handed off to Quality team for bulk production.
Lead pipeline innovation developments through research of new fiber, yarn, and chemistry technologies.
Analyze and interpret raw material test results based on development specifications in a timely manner. Partners will material supplier to troubleshoot and resolve development failures.
Meet timely completion of assigned products following the predetermined product development calendar. Provide regular updates on all developments to managers, internal and external partners as appropriate.
Partner with Sourcing to troubleshoot any developments including but not limited to manufacturing locations; pricing, MOQ, delivery issues, and lead time; and stage materials for on time Prototype and SMS (salesman sample) deliveries.
Coordinate and prepare hand off of approved raw material (standard, specs, and testing) to Quality team to execute bulk production.
Prepare for and participate in bi-weekly RM Development meetings for status, issues, and Design/Merchant alignment. With Manager guidance, provide solutions and recommendations for issue resolution; ensure Design and Merchant alignment throughout seasonal development; and provide weekly updates and business implication on red flag issues.
Develop, maintain and foster key relationships with counterparts in Supply Chain, Design, Technical Design, Color Management, Sourcing, and Quality.
Lead material supplier meetings with cross functional teams including Product Development, Design, and Merch teams. Research and onboard new suppliers, as needed, for continuous innovation to Carhartt’s supplier base.
Build on technical expertise and industry trends related to the textile and apparel industry including new technologies and with a focus on how these changes and/or trends can influence and support divisional and company strategies.
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 within the Apparel or Textile industry
Good fabric, trim and color development background within the Apparel or Textile industry.
Strong knowledge of textile and material testing protocols (AATCC, ASTM, and global norms); EPA and BPR requirements for applicable chemistries; and AAFA RSL guidelines.
Good 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.
Demonstrated ability to build and foster business relationships with cross functional teams, and internal and external partners.
Effective communicator, verbal and written. Good presentation skills.
Excellent organization and planning skills; and the ability to prioritize workloads and manage multiple projects at the same time.
Proficient in PLM, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Adobe Illustrator, etc.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
Strength: Sedentary – Frequently; Light – Occasionally; Medium – Occasionally
Movement: Stooping, Reaching
Equipment Used: Office equipment – computer, copier, desk phone
Travel: Light – Up to 10% 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.