What are the responsibilities and job description for the Product Developer – Juniors & Young Adult Apparel position at Topson Downs of California, LLC?
About Us
We are a fashion-forward apparel design and manufacturing company specializing in private label programs and in-house brands for the Juniors and Young Adult customer. Our teams bring trend-driven concepts to life through close collaboration with retail partners and global manufacturing resources. We move fast, value creativity, and focus on delivering quality, value, and speed to market.
Position Overview
The Product Developer is responsible for managing the product development process from initial design handoff through production for apparel styles within the Juniors and Young Adult categories. This role works cross-functionally with design, sourcing, production, and merchandising to ensure products are developed on time, on cost, and to brand and quality standards.
This position is ideal for a product developer with a strong understanding of fashion trends, construction, and manufacturing who thrives in a fast-paced, trend-driven environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage the end-to-end product development process for Juniors and Young Adult apparel
- Partner with design to interpret concepts and translate them into production-ready products
- Create, maintain, and update tech packs, BOMs, and product specifications in PLM
- Source fabrics, trims, and washes aligned with trend, cost, and quality targets
- Communicate with domestic and overseas vendors regarding pricing, timelines, and sample revisions
- Track and manage all samples (proto, fit, SMS, TOP, PP) to meet development calendars
- Review samples for fit, construction, workmanship, color, and overall aesthetic
- Ensure products meet cost targets, margin goals, and quality standards
- Coordinate testing, compliance, and approval processes as required
- Maintain development calendars and proactively flag risks or delays
- Support private label client requirements and in-house brand standards
- Collaborate closely with production to ensure smooth handoff to bulk manufacturing
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, Product Development, or related field
- 3–6 years of experience in apparel product development
- Experience working with private label programs and/or in-house brands
- Strong knowledge of apparel construction, fabrics, and garment washes
- Experience developing products for Juniors and Young Adult customers
- Proficiency in PLM systems, Adobe Illustrator, and Microsoft Excel
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills
- Ability to manage multiple styles and deadlines simultaneously
- Clear and professional communication skills with internal teams and external vendors
Key Competencies
- Trend awareness with an understanding of Juniors and Young Adult market aesthetics
- Strong attention to detail and follow-through
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Comfort working in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
- Cost-conscious with a solutions-oriented mindset