Fabric R&D Associate, Owned Brand

EMINENT•Los Angeles, CA

About The Position

The Fabric R&D Associate is a full-time role responsible for executing current fabric research and development processes and goals while maintaining quality and costs within company standards. The role manages fabric development for multiple brands and/or categories, communicates across departments, and supports Design and Product Development with fabric selection, costing, allocation, and delivery. The position may also train and manage junior team members and requires working effectively with minimal supervision in a fast-paced, changing environment.

Requirements

At least 4 years of experience in Fabric R&D, Product Development, or a similar role.
Degree in Fashion, Product Development, or a similar field.
Knowledge of textiles, sourcing, and development.
Strong understanding of fabrics, fibers, and fabric R&D processes.
Ability to execute fabric development and manage others.
Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
Effective negotiation and problem-solving skills.
Ability to multitask, manage time effectively, and stay organized.
Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced, changing environment.
Enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
Excellent computer skills, including Excel and Google Docs.
Able and willing to lift and carry up to 10 pounds; perform frequent repetitive finger, hand, and wrist motions; bend, stoop, reach, squat, kneel, push, and pull; and sit for extended periods.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience working with a contemporary brand is highly preferred.
Experience with costing and overseas vendor communication.

Responsibilities

Manage fabric allocations and communications for an assigned segment.
Manage and track fabric swatches and provide accurate cost estimates to guide Design.
Assist with negotiating fabric costs.
Prioritize fabrics and notify relevant teams based on lead times and delivery.
Partner with Product Development and Design to ensure fabric minimum order quantities and costs meet targets.
Maintain accurate data across platforms and departments.
Manage fabrics for multiple brands and/or categories.
Execute fabric communications and development.
Manage costing processes for an assigned brand and/or category.
Name fabric qualities and assist other team members as needed.
Resolve fabric issues with minimal input from the Fabric R&D Manager.
Potentially develop and train assistants, including refining their development processes.
Serve as a key point of contact and communicator among cross-functional departments.
Cultivate, interview, train, and manage junior team members.
Complete ad hoc tasks and assignments as directed by management.