RTW Product Development Associate

PISTOLA Denim; Louisiana (MO); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

PISTOLA Denim is seeking a detail-oriented development coordinator to manage prototype tracking, sample organization, and cross-functional collaboration. You will coordinate with Design, Tech, and Production to ensure timely progress from concept to pre-production.

The role requires 1–2 years in apparel product development, familiarity with PLM or tracking tools, and strong organization and communication skills. A collaborative, proactive approach is essential for success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion, Merchandising, Product Development, or related field.
• 1–2 years of experience in product development, production, or a related role in the apparel industry focusing on Ready to Wear.
• Strong understanding of product lifecycle.
• Experience with PLM systems or tracking tools like Excel, Illustrator, or Google Suite.

Responsibilities

• Track all prototypes (P1 and P2), SMS, and pre-production samples across multiple categories.
• Ensure timely receipt and organization of samples for fittings, reviews, and market meetings.
• Create and maintain sample tracking charts and update internal systems.
• Host and participate in weekly cross-functional partner meetings with published agendas.
• Communicate daily with overseas and domestic vendors on timelines and revisions.
• Submit tech packs, artwork, and updates to vendors and follow up on pending developments.
• Monitor lab dips, strike-offs, trims, and fabric approvals and flag delays.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Multitasking

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Fashion, Merchandising, Product Development, or related field

Tools

PLM systems

Excel

Illustrator

Google Suite

Job description

What You’ll Do:

• Track all prototypes- P1 and P2, SMS, and pre‑production samples across multiple categories.


• Ensure timely receipt and organization of samples for fittings, reviews, and market meetings.


• Create and maintain sample tracking charts and update internal systems accordingly.


• Host and participate in weekly meetings with cross-functional partners- ensure agenda/topics is published in advance of meeting for effectiveness


• Communicate daily with overseas and domestic vendors on development timelines, sample requests, and revisions.


• Submit tech packs, artwork, and updates to vendors and follow up on pending developments.


• Monitor lab dips, strike‑offs, trims, and fabric approvals and elevate delays when needed.


• Maintain seasonal development calendars and ensure all key deadlines are met.


• Schedule fit sessions, design reviews, and milestone meetings in coordination with cross-functional partners.


• Input and maintain accurate style information in PLM or internal tracking systems.


• Organize digital assets including reference images, fabric info, lab dips, and sample approvals.


• Partner closely with Design, Tech, and Production teams to keep development aligned and progressing.


• Assist with showroom and market preparations, including tagging, labeling, and organizing samples.


• Partner with Quality Control to ensure proper techniques/outcomes in regard to wash and design of garments.


• Create and maintain binder for proper production handoff


• Audit and/or check for compliance with all testing “care label” instructions


• Maintain proper margin targets with cost effective options.

Who You Are:

• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion, Merchandising, Product Development, or related field


• 1–2 years of experience in product development, production, or a related role in the apparel industry focusing on Ready to Wear


• Strong understanding of product lifecycle and basic garment construction


• Experience with PLM systems or tracking tools (e.g., Excel, Illustrator, Google Suite)


• Highly organized and detail-oriented with ability to multitask and manage deadlines


• Excellent written and verbal communication skills


• A positive, can-do attitude and a collaborative work style