Materials Developer (Altra)

Materials Developer

The primary responsibility of the Materials Developer for Altra Running is to support the Product Team by providing suitable material choices that meet brand and design expectations as well as margin. The Senior Materials Coordinator would also have individual responsibility to maintain and update the Flex PLM Materials Library, initiate seasonal developments, monitor and communicate development information to counterparts and external partners, and ensure developments are in alignment and support of Business/Brand initiatives.

Key responsibilities include:

• Work cross functionally with supply chain partners to source materials in appropriate markets to support supply chain flow and maximize margins
• Identify vendors that offer innovative materials, compounds and processes
• Support team in developing or choosing materials that meet design intent and margin requirements
• Utilize technical expertise to inspire the Product Team and influence the seasonal material and color palette
• Build and maintain accurate development data with complete material information/pricing/minimums/lead-times
• Drive on-boarding to Flex PLM Materials Library
• Creating the seasonal material toolbox in Flex PLM at the beginning of the season, allowing materials to be available for GTM1, GTM2, SMS, and Production
• Update and maintain the Materials Library throughout the development season as new materials are identified
• Communicate clearly with vendors on a timely basis on Development, Quality and Brand requirements
• Monitor developments, anticipate problems, address and facilitate solutions to manager in a timely manner to minimize quality problems and production delays
• Coordinate with Development and VF Asia on all material lab testing requirements
• Ensure commercialized material information is accurately maintained within seasonal timelines
• Partner with peer set to identify and drive department process improvements
• Develop and maintain an up-to-date, user-friendly materials library
• Coordinate with GMS on material vendors CSR compliance and preferred vendor status

Job Requirements:

• Years of related professional experience: 3-5 years of relevant work experience.
• Educational/Position Requirements: BA or BS degree in Design (Footwear, Apparel or Industrial), Textiles, Engineering, Manufacturing or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Footwear or materials experience 3-5+ years experience preferred.
• Understanding of design and development process from inception through production.
• Knowledge of textile properties, testing, dyeing, finishing, manufacturing or other textile fundamentals.
• Strong organizational skills - ability to access information accurately and readily when needed.
• Strong communication skills verbal and written - gives concise and focused information.
• Able to make effective decisions through analysis, experience and common sense or understands when to defer to manager as situation warrants.
• Strong prioritization skill - analyze situation and manage priorities based on understanding of production cycle needs.
• Excellent time management skills - ability to adhere to calendar deadlines and manage work flow accordingly.
• Understanding of trade regulations, testing protocol, product integrity requirements, product cycle timeline and basic production process.
• Proactive problem solving - ability to identify potential issues based on experience/expertise and or research and effectively minimize negative impact to product integrity/ timing / profitability.
• Ability to work both independently and cooperatively with a diverse group of people.
• Team player - ability to negotiate and build consensus across multiple functions.
• Proficient PC skills. Working knowledge of Web PDM, PLM data management systems is a plus.
• Flexible attitude willing to grow as company/Brand expands.

Hiring Range: $73,440.00 USD - $91,800.00 USD annually

Incentive Potential: This position is eligible for additional compensation awards that may include an annual incentive plan, sales incentive, or commission potential. Specific details of the additional compensation eligibility for this position will be provided during the recruiting and interview process.

Benefits at VF Corporation: You can review a general overview of each benefit program offered, including this year's medical plan rates on www.myvfbenefits.com and by clicking Looking to Join VF? Detailed information on your benefits will be provided during the hiring process.

Please note, our hiring ranges are determined and built from market pay data. In determining the specific compensation for this position, we comply with all local, state, and federal laws.

At VF, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual's race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us at peopleservices@vfc.com. VF will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals to the extent required by applicable law.

Pursuant to all applicable local Fair Chance Ordinance requirements, including but not limited to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, VF will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.