Associate Fabric Developer

About the Company

Rhone is performance-driven apparel made by and for those in the pursuit of progress. Founded in 2014 by brothers Nate and Ben Checketts, we exist to inspire, equip, and support individuals in their pursuit of progress-both physically and mentally. More than just apparel, Rhone is a mindset championing the power of being a little better every day. With a relentless focus on performance, innovation, and style, our products are engineered to move with you-wherever the pursuit takes you. By the end of 2025, Rhone will operate 22 retail stores across the U.S., each serving as a hub for community connection and the Forever Forward mindset.

About the Role

The Associate Fabric Developer supports Rhones Product Development, Production, Design, and Merchandising teams in the selection, development, and management of materials. This role provides hands-on support throughout the development process, ensuring materials meet design, performance, sustainability, and quality standards.

The ideal candidate has a foundational knowledge of fabrics and trims, is highly organized, and is eager to learn and grow in a collaborative product development environment.

Key Responsibilities

Material Research & Development

• Assist in the selection, research, and development of fabrics, trims, finishes, and technologies aligned with Rhones product and brand goals.
• Support prototype and sample development, ensuring materials are prepared for development and tech packs are complete for sample-to-bulk production.
• Research and present industry trends related to innovation, performance, technology, and sustainability.
• Support fabric platforming from greige through prototype, SMS samples, and bulk production.

Testing and Quality Validation

• Coordinate and support laboratory and field testing of materials.
• Track lab dip approvals, print approvals, and testing reports, coordinating with overseas partners as needed.
• Document test results and assist in preparing technical reports.
• Support troubleshooting of material performance issues in partnership with the QC team.
• Stay informed on industry testing standards and assist in ensuring compliance with company and industry requirements, including RSL.

Supplier and Partner Support

• Communicate with mills, vendors, and suppliers to request samples, technical data, pricing, and MOQ information.
• Support the management of existing mill and franchise relationships to ensure consistency and improvement.
• Assist in identifying and evaluating potential new supplier partners.
• Help compare supplier capabilities, pricing, and lead times to support sourcing decisions.
• Document supplier information and assist in maintaining internal systems and digital libraries.

Documentation and Data Management

• Maintain accurate material specifications, pricing, FDS yardage availability, and technical data sheets.
• Update material data in internal systems and digital libraries.
• Organize and maintain physical and digital material libraries and sample archives.
• Track development timelines, approvals, and follow-ups to support on-time delivery.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with Design, Merchandising, and Product Development teams to align material selection with seasonal and long-term product strategies.
• Support Production during material implementation from sample through bulk.
• Partner with Merchandising and Inventory teams to manage leftover materials for future use.
• Provide day-to-day support to the Materials and Fabric Development team and assist with project execution.

Compliance, Sustainability, & Cost Tracking

• Assist in ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Support documentation for certifications, audits, and sustainability initiatives.
• Assist in sourcing and evaluating sustainable or eco-friendly materials.
• Help track seasonal fabric spend budgets and invoice management.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree preferred, relevant coursework or internships in textiles, materials, or product development a plus.
• 1-3 years of experience in raw material or product development or internship experience in the apparel and textile industry.
• Knowledge of fabrics, trims, and basic garment construction.
• Familiarity with costing, trade regulations, product integrity testing protocols, and production timelines a plus.
• Basic understanding of US, Canada, and EU testing and compliance regulations.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and Google applications, exposure to PLM systems preferred.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail with ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Eagerness to learn, positive attitude, and collaborative approach.

What Youll Get

• Competitive Compensation & Bonus Plan.
• Access to healthcare, including medical, dental, vision, and other ancillary benefits.
• 10 Company Holidays Annually.
• Discretionary Time Off Policy.
• Advancement Opportunities.
• Discount on clothing plus semi-annual gift card allotment.

Job Type: Full Time Reports to: Fabric Manager Location: Onsite - Based in Stamford, CT