Senior Product Developer - Soft Goods

Mountain Equipment Company; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading outdoor company is seeking a Senior Product Developer to oversee development processes and manage relationships with global manufacturers. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in apparel development and a passion for the outdoors. This in-office role in Vancouver offers a dynamic work environment and numerous perks, including a competitive salary, work-life flexibility, and generous vacation allowances.

Benefits

Work-life flexibility

Hybrid work environment

Variable annual incentive plan

Generous vacation allowance

Paid care time (wellness/sick leave)

Maternity and parental leave top-up

Staff discounts and deals from vendors

Retirement plan with matched contributions

Paid days for outdoor activities or volunteering

Access to learning platforms and educational support

Qualifications

• Experience in apparel product development, preferably in outdoor or performance wear.
• Ability to lead cross-functional collaboration and influence without direct authority.

Responsibilities

• Leading the implementation of solutions for high-quality products for MEC Label.
• Building relationships with vendors and positively influencing junior team members.
• Tracking development of concepts to ensure on-time commercialization.

Skills

Leadership

Project Management

Problem Solving

Negotiation

Technical Knowledge

Education

Experience in Apparel Product Development

Tools

PLM Systems

Excel

Job description

At MEC, we believe in the transformative power of the outdoors to make us better humans and to drive us to do good for the planet. We aim to inspire and support everyone in getting active outside by matching people with gear and advice that instills confidence. We offer more than products; we offer passion for the outdoors. We play with purpose!

Our business model depends on impassioned and well-trained outdoor enthusiasts. We seek individuals who live our purpose and align with the MEC ethos and lifestyle. If you are that person, we'd love to connect with you. Join us!

Inclusivity at MEC

MEC is an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive community. We are proud to work with our staff to create a diverse workplace where everyone feels they belong and has the opportunity to succeed. We welcome all applicants to join our diverse team. Please inform us of any accommodations needed during the hiring process, and we will do our best to assist.

The Opportunity

This is the most senior position on the SG development team, requiring strong leadership presence and influence despite no direct reports. The role involves strategic oversight of the development process, including tracking, reporting, PLM system implementation, and managing relationships with MEC Label and global manufacturers. A deep background in apparel development, including translating 2D designs into 3D prototypes and managing product life cycles, is essential. The ideal candidate will share MEC's passion for the outdoors and fit with our ethos and lifestyle.

Location: This is a five-day-a-week in-office role based at MEC's Head Office in Vancouver.

As the Senior Product Developer, you'll be:

• Leading the implementation of solutions to achieve on-cost, high-quality products for MEC Label, aligning with MEC policies and standards.
• Building lasting relationships with vendors and positively influencing junior team members through leadership by example.
• Planning and tracking seasonal development work-in-progress reports, maintaining systems with accurate data, and providing clear updates to cross-functional teams.
• Leading team members within and outside the development team using your expertise.
• Supporting and guiding MEC Label Design and PLM Teams to ensure product development aligns with MEC standards for construction, quality, and cost.
• Ensuring administrative work supports product concepts, including maintaining systems and specifications.
• Creating and completing accurate tech packs in the PLM system, including BOMs, measurement charts, graded specs, colorways, and costing sheets.
• Supporting development teams working with the Design Team on raw materials, specifications, prototypes, and fit sessions.
• Assisting junior team members with execution summaries, construction details, fitting notes, and resolving issues with the creative team and vendors.
• Tracking development of concepts to ensure on-time, on-cost commercialization.
• Communicating with MEC manufacturing partners to deliver accurate, timely information and resolve queries quickly.
• Negotiating FOB terms to meet IMU targets during development.
• Arranging wear testing and gathering information to evaluate fit and performance.
• Supporting development of raw materials, packaging, and trims.
• Taking on special projects as needed.

What you bring

• Experience in apparel product development, preferably in outdoor, technical, or performance wear.
• Understanding of the full product lifecycle from concept to production.
• Ability to lead cross-functional collaboration and influence without direct authority.
• Deep technical knowledge of raw materials, fit, construction, costing, and grading.
• Hands-on experience translating 2D designs into 3D prototypes with attention to detail.
• Excellent project management skills to handle multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a calm, solution-focused approach.
• Advanced Excel skills and experience with PLM systems (Centric preferred).
• Negotiation skills with vendors and manufacturers, especially regarding FOB and costing.
• Ability to assess risk and make data-informed decisions.
• Passion for the outdoors and alignment with MEC's values.
• Ability to mentor junior team members with empathy and clarity.

The Compensation & Perks

This is a permanent role with an annual base salary range of $75,500 to $94,500, depending on skills, experience, location, and qualifications. The role is eligible for our annual variable incentive plan.

• Work-life flexibility
• Hybrid work environment
• Variable annual incentive plan
• Generous vacation allowance
• Paid care time (wellness/sick leave)
• Maternity and parental leave top-up
• Staff discounts and deals from vendors
• Retirement plan with matched contributions
• Paid days for outdoor activities or volunteering
• Access to learning platforms and educational support

Note: Benefits may vary by location and employment type, with certain eligibility requirements. MEC reserves the right to modify benefits at any time without notice.

Ready for your next adventure? We'd love to hear from you!