OVERVIEWWe are seeking a creative and technically skilled Sweater R&D Associate to lead the development and innovation of sweater yarns. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of yarn construction, fiber content, dyeing processes, and knitting behavior. This role is essential to driving innovation, and quality in our sweater collections, working cross-functionally with design, product development, product integrity, mills and garment manufacturers.
RESPONSIBILITIES - Research and develop new yarns for sweater applications, focusing on trend, innovation, and performance.
- Collaborate closely with design teams to translate seasonal concepts into feasible yarn & stitch developments.
- Source and evaluate raw materials (natural, synthetic, and blended fibers), spinning techniques, and finishing processes.
- Work closely with mills, garment manufacturers to bring creative concepts to life while maintaining performance, quality, and cost parameters.
- Create and maintain yarn libraries, technical data sheets, and performance testing reports.
- Develop inspiration boards and yarn mood concepts that inspire the knitwear design team each season.
- Stay ahead of market trends in fiber innovation, color applications, and sustainability.
- Support the product development & the production team with troubleshooting yarn-related quality or performance issues.
QUALIFICATIONS- Bachelor's degree in Textile Engineering, Fiber Science, or related field.
- 5+ years of experience in yarn or textile product development, with a focus on sweaters.
- Strong technical knowledge of yarn spinning, dyeing, and finishing processes.
- Familiarity with various fibers (wool, cotton, viscose, recycled yarns, synthetics, etc.).
- Experience working with global yarn suppliers and manufacturers.
- Strong time management and organizational skills, with the ability to multi-task and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced development calendar.
- Ability to communicate creative ideas visually and verbally, including through mood boards, color stories, and presentation decks.
- Strong ability to influence others
- Working knowledge of PLM
The base salary range for this position is $85,000-$120,000 per year which represents the current range for the base salary for this exempt position. Please note that actual salaries will vary based on factors including but not limited to location, experience, and performance. As such, on occasion and when applicable, there is the possibility that the final, agreed-upon base salary may be outside of the upper end of the range. Please also note the range listed is just one component of the company's total rewards package for exempt employees. Other rewards may include performance bonuses, long term incentives, a PTO policy, and many other progressive benefits.
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