Product Development Specialist

Kappler, Inc.•Guntersville, AL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Are you passionate about innovation, materials, and turning concepts into real-world solutions? Kappler is seeking a Product Development Specialist to help drive the creation of next-generation protective garments. In this role, you’ll collaborate across teams to research new materials, design and test prototypes, and support projects from initial concept to commercialization. This is a hands-on opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects—including product improvements, new product launches, and government-funded research—that directly impact the safety of those who depend on our gear. If you thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment and love problem-solving, innovation, and bringing ideas from the lab to the production floor, this role is for you.

Requirements

Solid technical foundation in polymeric materials, textile science, or related field.
Hands-on experience with product development, process improvement, and testing.
Natural curiosity with a research-oriented mindset and passion for innovation.
Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects or project components simultaneously.
Effective communicator with ability to clearly document findings and contribute to technical reports.
Comfortable presenting technical information to peers, managers, and external stakeholders.
Strong collaboration skills and ability to work closely with cross-functional teams.
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and virtual collaboration tools (Zoom, Teams).
Ability to read and interpret blueprints and process diagrams.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
Bachelor’s Degree or higher in a related field, or equivalent job experience. Engineering or Material Science degree preferred.
4-7 years of hands-on industry experience in product development, materials, or additive manufacturing environment, preferably in protective garments, polymers, textiles, or related industries.
Demonstrated success in contributing to new product launches, process improvements, or applied research.
Strong background in manufacturing processes; nonwoven fabrics, film technology, or extrusion highly desired. Knowledge of additive manufacturing and automation of process is preferred.
Must be able to stand, sit, and walk for prolonged periods of time; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate computer and telephone keyboards.
Noise levels are usually moderate.
Ability to see and adjust; close vision and distance vision.
Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at a time.

Nice To Haves

Engineering or Material Science degree preferred.
Strong background in manufacturing processes; nonwoven fabrics, film technology, or extrusion highly desired. Knowledge of additive manufacturing and automation of process is preferred.

Responsibilities

Research new materials and technologies through vendor visits, trade events, networking, and independent research.
Participate in business meetings with prospective vendors for technology collaboration.
Manage assigned product development and product improvement tasks, ensuring timelines and objectives are met.
Work with Prototype Technician to support creation of initial designs and prototypes.
Maintain working knowledge of NFPA, ASTM, and other standards related to Kappler’s products.
Assist with the execution of government-funded research contracts in compliance with applicable rules and regulations.
Comply with applicable rules and regulations on Government contracts.
Contribute to presentations of new product development activities for internal stakeholders and external parties.
Partner with Manufacturing, Marketing, and Sales to provide technical support as needed.
Collaborate with Technical Support & Training Manager to provide input for training curriculum.
Assist Sales Team with technical data and product testing during new product introductions.
Support developmental fabric runs and production trials, documenting and reporting results.
Participate in industry associations such as INDA and NFPA.
Represent Kappler at industry events.
Work onsite, in person to develop cross-departmental relationships and collaboration, maintain high levels of service and productivity, and be readily available to promptly address dynamic business needs as they arise.
Perform other related duties as assigned.