Technical Associate Product Manager

ZAH Group•Lincolnshire, IL

9d•$75,000 - $85,000

About The Position

At Klein Tools, curiosity powers discovery, ownership inspires excellence, and urgency means we run towards opportunities. We deliver quality and innovation in everything we do, designing and launching hundreds of groundbreaking products each year. Join us and be part of a legacy built to last. The Technical Associate Product Manager (TAPM) is responsible for assisting Product Managers in developing and executing product-oriented plans that align with the company’s selling tactics, distribution channels, overall strategy, and financial goals. This role is intended for candidates with a strong technical foundation, such as an engineering or other technical degree, who can bridge customer needs, market insights, and product functionality. The TAPM is directly responsible for managing tactical execution details on assigned product categories or product introductions, ensuring timely execution of product-specific plans and effective communication of critical information. This position supplies market, product, technical, financial, and end-user data analysis to drive informed business decisions. As needed, the TAPM may be responsible for financial objectives on small product categories and will assist Product Managers or Directors on larger, strategic product portfolios.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a closely related technical discipline (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Manufacturing, or similar) is required.
Demonstrated ability to understand and communicate technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to project manage multiple tasks effectively.
Ability to understand and perform basic mathematics and financial calculations.
Must have strong communications skills, verbal and written. This includes basic PC/Internet skills such as E-mail, Word, PowerPoint and Excel.

Nice To Haves

Experience in consumer goods (durable preferred) distribution through Retail or Commercial channels is desired, but not required.

Responsibilities

Assist Product Managers and Directors with short- and long-term product planning, with an emphasis on technically complex products and solutions.
Execute plans for assigned product categories or projects, including special promotions, new product introductions, forecasting, and other relevant activities; accountable for achieving financial objectives for assigned products or projects.
Provide detailed analysis of the competitive landscape, current product offerings, customer needs, sales trends, and technical differentiators, along with clear, data-driven recommendations.
Support Product Managers or Directors in identifying, evaluating, and prioritizing opportunities for product improvements, product line extensions, new markets, improved merchandising, promotions, and other growth initiatives, with a focus on technical feasibility and value creation.
Support assigned products and projects by overseeing and executing product launches, product modifications, and promotional activities, ensuring technical accuracy and readiness.
Demonstrate leadership when working with cross-functional teams, including Engineering, Manufacturing, Sales, Marketing, and Supply Chain. Drive effective communication and collaboration across the organization and foster strong working relationships.
Maintain close connection to the market through interaction with sales teams, distributors, and end users via multiple channels. Spend approximately 15% of time in the field, documenting how time is spent learning about customer workflows, technical requirements, and unmet needs.
Develop and maintain a strong understanding of product functionality, applications, specifications, pricing, packaging, and merchandising. Serve as a technical product resource to other areas of the company as needed.
Perform all other duties as assigned.