Lead Technical Raw Material Developer- Denim & Wash

Location:  Dearborn

Department: Global Product Development, Technical Raw Materials

Reports to: Manager, Technical Raw Materials 

Job Classification: Hybrid

FLSA:  Exempt

Job Band:  Professional

Job Summary

The Lead Technical Raw Material Developer (Denim & Wash) supports Carhartt’s brand product strategy and department vision to build fiber up raw material developments; leads research on new wash and chemistry; and bring innovation through pipeline developments. In this role, the developer will maintain all developments under GTM calendar; collaborate with suppliers for issue resolution; and lead development meetings to communicate status updates to cross functional teams. The Lead Technical RM Developer builds and fosters strong collaborative relationships with internal and external partners.

We Are All Leaders at Carhartt

In our words and by our actions, we strive to emulate the hardworking example set forth by our founder, Hamilton Carhartt. We Lead Business by creating value, delivering on results, and making changes along the way. We Lead Self by being inclusive, recognizing that our differences make us stronger as we strive to build a better world, together, for all hardworking people. We Lead Others by communicating and clearly defining the path as we walk bravely into the future. Working at Carhartt, we are all given a seat at the table and the honor of continuing the legacy.

Representative Responsibilities

• Lead new seasonal and resource developments through “setting the standards” for each platform development by analyzing Carhartt requirements, end use, and historical standards. Ensure all developments can meet Carhartt quality requirements, within cost targets, and successfully handed off to Quality team for bulk production.
• Establish production wash standards on denim and washed programs. Strong focus on raw material development for denim and washed product categories; chemistry, wash and garment finish (wet and dry) capabilities; and testing to meet brand standards. Establish production wash standards on denim and washed programs.
• Lead pipeline innovation developments through research of new fiber, yarn, chemistry, and machinery technologies; builds wash library that supports seasonal business color/wash needs; and incorporates product sustainability where applicable.
• Analyze and interpret raw material test results based on development specifications in a timely manner. Partners with material suppliers to troubleshoot and resolve development failures. 
• Builds tested and passing wash (wet and dry processes) ranges by platform to support seasonal line plan needs.  
• Leads material resourcing and partners with PD team on resourcing efforts for denim and washed products to support global supply chain growth needs and risk mitigation.
• Partner with Sourcing on vendor selection based on wash capability and technology, to troubleshoot any developments including but not limited to manufacturing locations, pricing, MOQ, delivery issues, and lead time; and stage materials for on time Prototype and SMS (salesman sample) deliveries.
• Participate in cross-functional Product Development meetings to share status updates, issues and business implications, and ensure Design/Merchant alignment. With manager guidance, provide solutions and recommendations for issue resolution.
• Develop, maintain and foster key relationships with counterparts in Supply Chain, Design, Technical Design, Color Management, Sourcing, and Quality.
• Lead material supplier meetings with cross functional teams including Product Development, Design, and Merch teams. Research and onboard new suppliers, as needed, for continuous innovation to Carhartt’s supplier base.
• Continue to build on technical expertise and industry trends related to the textile and apparel industry including new technologies and with a focus on how these changes and/or trends can influence and support divisional and company strategies.

Required Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Textiles or related field; or equivalent years of related experience in lieu of degree. 

Required Skills & Experience

• Minimum seven years of experience in raw material development within the Apparel or Textile industry.
• Experience in fabric, trim and color knowledge within Apparel or Textile industry. Experience in sustainable and eco-friendly launder and wash technologies related to denim and washed products.
• Strong knowledge of textile and material testing protocols (AATCC, ASTM, and global norms); EPA and BPR requirements for applicable chemistries; and AFIRM RSL guidelines.
• Strong strategic and analytical skills and aptitude.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to be flexible, solution oriented and adaptive to changing priorities, as well as effectively manage and resolve conflict.
• Effective communicator and presenter with a demonstrated ability to build and foster business relationships with cross functional teams, and internal and external partners.
• Excellent organization and planning skills; and the ability to prioritize workloads and manage multiple projects at the same time.
• Proficient in PLM, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Adobe Illustrator, etc.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Normal office environment, extended periods of sitting/standing or typing at a computer is required 
• Willing to work some weekends if necessary. Light lifting may be required, 25LBS. 
• Up to 10% of travel domestically and/or internationally

• This position has a Hybrid location: Associate will work on-site regularly as needed for work activities.

• Carhartt is a tobacco free workplace.

#LI-Hybrid