Product Developer for Apparel

GMPC; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

GMPC is seeking a Product Developer for Apparel in New York, a hybrid, full-time position. You will drive end-to-end development from trend research through design collaboration, material selection, sampling, and handoff to production.

You will manage timelines, tech packs, supplier coordination, and ensure quality and on-time delivery of private label apparel collections. You will analyze market trends, optimize costs and margins, and collaborate with cross-functional teams in logistics,

Qualifications

• Experience in R&D and Product Development in apparel, materials, and construction details.
• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration across design, sourcing, and production.
• Timeline management, cost negotiation, and coordination across design, sourcing, and production.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end apparel development from concept to production handoff.
• Collaborate with design and merchandising on product concepts and timelines.
• Develop and manage tech packs and sampling schedules with suppliers and factories.
• Monitor quality standards and fit approvals throughout development.
• Analyze market trends and consumer insights to optimize cost and margins.
• Coordinate with logistics, production, and sales to ensure on-time, on-brief delivery.

Skills

Communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Supplier communication

Documentation

R&D experience in apparel

Product development management

Cost negotiation

Timeline management

Design coordination

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Fashion/Design/Product Development/Business

Tools

PLM systems

Excel

Tech packs & specifications

Job description

Company Description GMPC is a full-service partner for private label accessories and apparel, offering end-to-end “white glove” support from concept to delivery. The company provides trend reporting, design, development, sourcing, manufacturing, packaging, quality control, and both domestic and international logistics services. As one of the largest suppliers of private label headwear, bags, belts, wallets, apparel, and fashion accessories, GMPC serves leading brands and retailers in action sports, fashion, lifestyle, theme parks, and outdoor industries. GMPC focuses on helping partners extend their brands, grow their business, and create brand-enhancing accessories through a turnkey, collaborative approach.

Role Description The Product Developer for Apparel is a full-time hybrid role based in New York, NY. This role focuses on driving the end-to-end apparel development process, from trend and market research through design collaboration, material selection, sampling, and production handoff. Day-to-day responsibilities include partnering with design and merchandising teams on product concepts, managing development timelines and tech packs, coordinating with suppliers and factories on sourcing and sampling, and monitoring quality standards and fit approvals. The Product Developer will analyze market trends and consumer insights, optimize cost and margin targets, and collaborate closely with cross-functional teams in logistics, production, and sales to ensure on-time, on-brief delivery of private label apparel collections. The role also involves maintaining clear documentation and communication across stakeholders to support efficient product lifecycle management.

Qualifications

• Strong Communication skills, including cross-functional collaboration, supplier communication, and clear documentation.
• Experience in Research and Development (R&D) and Product Development, with a focus on apparel, materials, and construction details.
• Product Management skills, including timeline management, cost negotiation, and coordination across design, sourcing, and production.
• Background in relevant technical fields (e.g., textiles, apparel technology); experience in Food Technology is not required but demonstrates transferable technical and process skills.
• Knowledge of apparel manufacturing processes, sourcing, and quality control; experience working with domestic and international vendors is beneficial.
• Proficiency with product development tools (such as PLM systems, Excel, and basic design file formats); familiarity with tech packs and specifications.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Product Development, Merchandising, Business, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Prior experience in private label, accessories, or fashion-related product development is a plus.