Job Description

Job Summary: The Materials Research Specialist I manages the development of seasonal materials from concept to commercialization within established timelines. Responsibilities: Works within an assigned category, determines seasonal needs, identifies regions/suppliers based on established source plan while utilizing working knowledge of suppliers abilities/limitations and strengths/weaknesses to ensure high standards of performance. Collaborates with global liaison offices in regards to supplier placement, specific performance, aesthetic and testing needs, and offers technical guidance during the development process. Works with costing department for support to ensure costs are analyzed and intelligently negotiated to best possible price, based on current market conditions. Attends assigned category s product creation team meetings and style reviews to communicate development status, performance, and/or potential issues and cost, and stays informed of changes in direction or needs as the seasonal line plan evolves, then works with liaison offices to execute. Reviews all trials and sales samples, evaluates (performance and aesthetics), and comments to liaison offices to ensure established quality is maintained and fully commercialized prior to first buy. Stays abreast of new technologies in the textile market and pursues innovation at all times. Works with senior materials researchers and testing lab to expand knowledge. Performs other duties as assigned. Additional Requirements: Bachelor s degree, applicable certification or equivalent experience. Typically requires less than 2 years of professional experience where knowledge base is generally acquired from a college degree or equivalent course experience. Requires a Bachelor s degree in textiles and/or a minimum of one year experience in materials development/materials laboratory, sourcing or related field. Must have comprehensive knowledge of textiles, familiarity with textile construction methods and manufacturing, materials testing and appropriate interaction of lab results as they pertain to products. Possess working knowledge of materials and functional aspects of garments Possess strong organizational skills Ability to work under pressure and to meet strict timelines, manage multiple tasks simultaneously and work extended hours if necessary. Possess strong written and verbal communication skills to deal with various levels of management and employees within the organization, as well as vendors. Ability to motivate individuals involved in the development process. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word. Travel: None Work Schedule: Standard Hours Career Band: Professional Jobs on this career band have a knowledge management focus and are primarily responsible for results achieved through their own work. Requires the application of theoretical knowledge, typically gained through formal education or equivalent work experience that provides knowledge of and exposure to fundamental theories, principles and concepts of a defined profession. Jobs at higher career levels may guide small teams in their area of subject matter expertise. Jobs at the at the most senior levels of this career band set disciplinary strategy within their areas of expertise. Criteria & Management Requirements: Problem Solving: Works on projects and tasks with limited complexity and solves problems with limited independence. Decisions: Makes decisions within guidelines and policies that impact own work. Receives moderate level of guidance and direction. Knowledge: Obtains fundamental knowledge of concepts, practices, and procedures within own discipline or specialty area. Business Acumen: Applies general knowledge of basic business principles developed through education or experience. Communication & Influence: Exchanges straightforward information, asks questions and checks for understanding. Impact: Work performed will have impact to projects within the department. Leadership: No supervisory responsibilities. Work Environment: Active Office Other Work Environment Requirements: Active Office: May be in a more active environment that can be physical or strenuous in nature, frequently uses computer, other standard office equipment, or specialized equipment. Some exposure to noise, dust, odors. Other Physical Requirements: Active Office: Generally less sedentary, may frequently require ability to move about or adjust/move items weighing up to 20 lbs. in all directions; Constantly requires collaboration and the ability to communicate with others to exchange information while in a typical office setting. Collaboration is generally conducted in person unless the role has been pre-approved for remote work. #LI-SA1 This job description is not meant to be an all-inclusive list of duties and responsibilities, but constitutes a general definition of the positions scope and function in the company.