Local Crafts · 1 day ago
Sweater Apparel Yarn R&D / Product Developer
Vancouver, WA
Full-time
Hybrid
Senior Level
$65K/yr - $85K/yr
5+ years expLocal Crafts is a company that manages a variety of well-known brands in the crafting industry. They are seeking an experienced Product Development Manager to lead the development of new and existing yarns, managing supplier relationships and ensuring quality and sustainability standards are met.
E-CommerceRetail
Responsibilities
Lead the research, planning, and execution of new yarn development projects in alignment with brand goals and seasonal strategies
Identify and source appropriate fibers, blends, spinning techniques, and dye methods to create high-quality, innovative yarns
Work closely with the design and marketing teams to ensure yarn launches are aligned with pattern collections, color stories, and campaign timelines
Manage relationships with mills and fiber suppliers worldwide
Oversee sampling and lab dips, and ensure production meets quality, consistency, and sustainability standards
Coordinate approvals for base yarns, colors, and treatments, ensuring accuracy in final product specifications
Create and maintain technical product documentation including spec sheets, fiber content data, gauge ranges, and care instructions
Assist in testing colorfastness, performance (swatching), yardage accuracy, and washability
Ensure clear communication with internal teams and external vendors on yarn performance expectations and issues
Provide yarn education, talking points, and technical background to the marketing and customer service teams
Support go-to-market plans with materials for kits, pattern support, and retail partners
Stay informed on fiber and yarn trends, sustainability innovations, and industry best practices
Explore new spinning methods, dye techniques, and material sourcing opportunities aligned with brand values and maker needs
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Textiles, Knitwear Design, or related field
5+ years of experience in yarn or textile product development, sourcing, or production management
Deep knowledge of yarn construction, fiber properties, and dyeing processes (natural and synthetic)
Hands-on familiarity with knitting and/or crochet
Strong project management and organizational skills
Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities with domestic and international suppliers
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and spreadsheet management
Ability to manage timelines, troubleshoot production issues, and meet quality standards
Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team
Experience in the hand-knit/craft yarn industry
Understanding of the maker community and product lifecycle from fiber to finished object
Benefits
Multiple medical, dental and vision plan options after 30 days (with company contributions to the premium costs)
Healthcare Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
Company-paid Life, Short and Long-Term Disability, and worldwide travel assistance benefits
Voluntary life and income replacement plans
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Employer Match
Generous paid time off and holiday pay policies
Employee discounts at all Local Crafts companies!
Company
Local Crafts
Local Crafts Group (formerly Premier Needle Arts / Crafts Americana Group) is on a mission to help you love what you make.
51-200 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageRecent News
peprofessional.com
2025-04-25
Company data provided by crunchbase