Product Specialist-Apparel

Bass Pro Shops•Springfield, MO

About The Position

The Product Specialist for the specified apparel category is an entry-level member of the product development team, responsible for supporting the development process and execution of products in that category. Working with a manager, designers, merchants, vendors, and other team members, the specialist learns to coordinate products from concept through production. The role includes helping identify product opportunities, coordinating development timelines, documenting project scope and specifications, reviewing samples and costs, and supporting product launches and quality processes. The position also supports technical package development, packaging and product content, field testing when needed, product testing and factory PO audits, and the accuracy and submission of new item forms. Duties are performed within company policies and procedures, with independent judgment used to adapt general guidance and make recommendations affecting processes and practices. Other duties may be assigned. Travel is minimal, domestic and possibly international as business dictates, with estimated travel of fewer than 15 days per year. The role involves regular computer work and sitting, use of hand tools to dissect samples and measuring gauges, and occasional walking, standing, and lifting up to 50 pounds.

Requirements

Less than 3 years of professional work experience in a related field; this is an entry-level product development position.
Ability to use the MS Office suite, including prior use of MS Excel.
Academic foundation in analytical and troubleshooting skills.
Attention to detail, both visually and functionally.
Strong organization and ability to multitask and manage time effectively.
Ability to collaborate in a cross-functional team environment.
Accountability and follow-through on tasks from beginning to end.
Ability to develop teamwork skills and adapt to changing business situations.
Ability to learn to take responsibility for project outcomes.
Good verbal and written communication skills, with potential to develop presentation skills.
Ability to use hand tools to dissect samples and use measuring gauges.
Ability to occasionally walk, stand, and lift up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Product Development, Design, or Business.

Responsibilities

Work with the product development team to identify and validate potential new product opportunities.
Coordinate the development timeline, including seasonal strategy, concept reviews, planning, sample reviews, approvals, production release, product launch planning, and first purchase order receipts.
Develop and document project scope and product specifications with the product development team.
Work with designers on technical packages for factories to develop samples and quotations.
Create cost analyses to compare baseline target costs with margin requirements at targeted retail prices.
Review Bills of Materials for appropriate costing.
Identify potential project roadblocks related to costs, tooling, materials, or technology, and find solutions or seek resources to resolve them.
Review samples, address specification, material, or pricing challenges, present samples to the development team for feedback, and communicate revisions to factories.
Update and confirm final specifications, and upload specification sheets, costing, factory assignments, and development reviews into the PLM system.
Provide final samples to field testers when needed, develop field-testing requirements, and conduct follow-up reviews with testers.
Work with designers to develop appropriate packaging that meets brand standards.
Submit and review product content for packaging, infographics, and digital media collateral.
Coordinate with quality teams and vendors to ensure product testing procedures are completed, and advise on scheduling new-product factory purchase-order audits.
Ensure accurate completion and submission of new item forms.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Discounts on retail merchandise, restaurants, resorts, and conservation attractions.
Medical benefits.
Dental insurance.
Vision insurance.
Health Savings Account.
Flexible Spending Account.
Voluntary benefits.
401(k) retirement savings.
Paid holidays.
Paid vacation.
Paid sick time.
Bass Pro Cares Fund.