Product Development Analyst

The People Brand

$80K — $110K *
Retail & Consumer Goods
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 1-3 years in footwear product development or related field.
  • Strong knowledge of footwear construction and fit principles.
  • Experience collaborating with factories and cross-functional teams.
  • Ability to assess product qualitatively and quantitatively.
  • Highly organized with attention to detail.
  • Capable of managing multiple projects and priorities.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

  • Plan and execute fit and wear testing protocols across footwear styles.
  • Evaluate product performance, fit, comfort, and durability.
  • Collect and analyze feedback from wear testers.
  • Collaborate with teams to identify issues and recommend improvements.
  • Report on fit and performance metrics for decision-making.
  • Support end-to-end development of SMU footwear products.
  • Manage timelines and ensure on-time sample delivery.

Benefits

  • Hybrid work environment with a mix of in-office and remote work.
  • Opportunity to work closely with cross-functional teams and build collaboration skills.
  • Hands-on involvement in both product development and testing processes.
  • Exposure to the entire lifecycle of product development, from concept to commercialization.
  • Potential for career growth in a dynamic and innovative sector.
Full Job Description
Job Title: Product Development Analyst (SMU & Fit/Wear Testing)

Position Overview

The Product Development Analyst is a hybrid role responsible for supporting both Special Make-Up (SMU) product development and fit & wear testing initiatives. This position plays a critical role in ensuring product excellence from concept through commercialization by combining hands-on product evaluation with development execution.

This role is split approximately 50% SMU product development and 50% fit and wear testing, requiring a balance of analytical thinking, product intuition, and strong cross- functional collaboration.

Key Responsibilities
Fit & Wear Testing (50%)
  • Plan, coordinate, and execute fit and wear testing protocols across footwear styles.
  • Evaluate product performance, fit, comfort, and durability through structured
    testing.
  • Collect, analyze, and document feedback from wear testers.
  • Partner with Product Development, Design, and Technical teams to identify issues
    and recommend improvements.
  • Track and report on key fit and performance metrics to support decision-making.
  • Maintain consistency in fit standards and testing methodologies.
    SMU Product Development (50%)
  • Support the end-to-end development of SMU (Special Make-Up) footwear products.
  • Collaborate with Design, Merchandising, and factory partners to execute product
    briefs.
  • Manage timelines, ensuring on-time sample delivery and commercialization
    milestones.
  • Review samples for accuracy against design intent, specifications, and quality
    standards.
  • Track development progress, costs, and changes throughout the lifecycle.
  • Assist in resolving development issues related to materials, construction, and fit.


Qualifications & Experience
  • 1-3 years of experience in footwear product development, wear testing, or a related field.
  • Strong understanding of footwear construction, materials, and fit principles.
  • Experience working with factories and cross-functional teams.
  • Ability to assess product both qualitatively (comfort, fit) and quantitatively (test
    results, metrics)
  • Highly organized with strong attention to detail and follow-through.
  • Comfortable managing multiple projects and shifting priorities.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills.
    Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in both product development and wear testing environments.
  • Background in performance or lifestyle footwear categories.
  • Familiarity with testing protocols and data collection methods.
  • Passion for product innovation and continuous improvement.
    Key Competencies
  • Product curiosity and hands-on mindset.
  • Analytical thinking and problem-solving.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills.
  • Clear communication across teams and partners.
  • Ability to balance technical rigor with product intuition.
    Compensation range : $80,000 - $110,000


$80,000 - $110,000 a year

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at The People Brand

More Retail & Consumer Goods Jobs

Find similar Product Development Analyst jobs: