Global Raw Materials R&D Lead – Textiles & Trims

ST JOHN KNITS INC; Anaheim (CA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

ST JOHN KNITS INC in Anaheim, CA seeks a Raw Material R&D Lead to drive sourcing and development of yarns, fabrics, and trims across all product categories. This individual contributor role partners with Design, Product Development, and Production from concept to bulk production, ensuring quality, cost, and timing expectations are met.

The candidate should bring deep technical textile expertise and hands-on experience with apparel brands, with domestic and international travel as needed.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of direct, hands-on experience in yarn, fabric, and/or trim sourcing and development.
• Must have technical knowledge of knitting, yarns, textiles, and trim development across woven and knit fabrics.

Responsibilities

• Source new yarns, fabrics, trims, and raw materials globally while aligning with design vision.
• Evaluate and develop woven fabrics, yarns, and knit materials.
• Develop high-quality trims aligned with seasonal branding.
• Negotiate pricing, MOQs, and lead times with suppliers.

Skills

Sourcing & development

Fabric & yarn knowledge

Vendor relationships

Negotiation

Project management

Travel (domestic & international)

Data-driven decisions

Education

Textile/knit engineering or fashion related degree

Tools

Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)

Job description

ST JOHN KNITS INC in Anaheim, CA seeks a Raw Material R&D Lead to drive sourcing and development of yarns, fabrics, and trims across all product categories. This individual contributor role partners with Design, Product Development, and Production from concept to bulk production, ensuring quality, cost, and timing expectations are met.

The candidate should bring deep technical textile expertise and hands-on experience with apparel brands, with domestic and international travel as needed.