Apparel Materials Developer II

Milwaukee Tool•Milwaukee, MT

About The Position

At Milwaukee Tool, Jobsite Apparel is built for the demands of professional trades. The Apparel Materials Developer helps shape Milwaukee Tool Jobsite Apparel by identifying, developing, testing, and commercializing innovative textile solutions across the apparel portfolio. The role connects material science, product design, technical development, sourcing, and manufacturing, translating product needs and jobsite challenges into materials that deliver measurable performance. The position partners with Design, Technical Design, Product Management, Engineering, suppliers, mills, and testing laboratories to move materials from early exploration through validation and production. It contributes to Milwaukee Tool’s material capabilities, influences future product platforms, and develops differentiated solutions for professional trades.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Apparel Design, Textile Design, or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
Strong technical knowledge of textile development, including fibers, yarns, fabric construction, finishes, and performance technologies.
Strong knowledge of industry testing standards.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build collaborative relationships.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects and seasonal development cycles simultaneously.
Strong commitment to the brand, professional users, and innovation.
Ability to travel up to 25%.

Nice To Haves

Experience with PLM software is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Lead seasonal sourcing and development of fabrics and trims, from concept through approval.
Lead research and development of new fabric and trim concepts and technologies, proposing solutions aligned with user needs, trends, and business priorities.
Translate insights from trade shows, supplier visits, market research, and design briefs into material sourcing recommendations for cross-functional partners.
Maintain accurate material data in PLM software, including quality, pricing, color, minimum order quantities, and lead times.
Own fabric and trim testing standards and test plans, ensuring alignment with product performance and compliance requirements.
Manage supplier, third-party, and in-house laboratory testing, including submissions, tracking, and follow-up.
Compile, analyze, and communicate test performance results, escalating risks and driving resolution.
Manage material development milestones against the Design & Development calendar, ensuring timely approvals, documentation, and clear communication with suppliers and partners.
Manage daily supplier communication and status tracking for lab dips, testing, and strike-offs to keep development on schedule.
Lead raw material supplier relationships, including scheduling and leading meetings to strengthen alignment, capability, and performance.
Manage raw material planning and booking, including greige planning and material commitments for prototypes, SMS, and bulk production.
Execute and communicate material orders for prototypes, testing, SMS, and bulk production, while supporting sourcing, vendor meetings, development, and marketing needs throughout the material lifecycle.
Identify manufacturing risks related to materials and trims and drive mitigation plans with suppliers and internal teams.