Product Development Trainee

Jobs in product development combine business, technical, and creative aspects and can be found in large retail organizations, private label apparel manufacturers, or independent consulting firms.  Entry-level jobs may include preparing specs, handling paper work and follow-up, dealing with clients, overseas communications, and fashion research.

As training progresses, additional responsibilities will include working with a Product Development Manager and buyers in coordinating garment styles or lines that meet buyers' expectations in regard to delivery, quality, and price point. 

Once orders are placed, duties include completing the necessary paper work, providing break down information (sizes, color, quantities) and approving samples for fit/color/quality.  Communication with overseas or domestic production facilities, approval of production samples, and development of yarn, fabric blends, and resources are also included in product development.

The job may eventually involve travel overseas, negotiating with factories on pricing, working out delivery schedules, and investigating new factories for possible future sourcing.

Requirements: Understanding of merchandising and fashion trends, basic knowledge of garment construction, textile science, and apparel manufacturing processes.  Ability to do flat technical sketches, excellent communication and organizational skills, analytical and problem solving ability, strong business sense, and high energy level.