Product Development Analyst

The People Brand

Irvine, California

JOB DETAILS
SALARY
$80,000–$110,000 Per Year
SKILLS
Analysis Skills, Apparel Design, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Communication Skills, Continuous Improvement, Cross-Functional, Data Collection, Decision Support, Detail Oriented, Follow Through, Identify Issues, Merchandising, Metrics, Multitasking, Organizational Skills, Performance Metrics, Problem Solving Skills, Product Design, Product Development, Product Testing, Project/Program Management, Quality Assurance Methodology, Team Player, Technical/Engineering Design, Test Plan/Schedule, Testing, Time Management
LOCATION
Irvine, California
POSTED
30+ days ago

Job Title: Product Development Analyst (SMU & Fit/Wear Testing)

Position Overview

The Product Development Analyst is a hybrid role responsible for supporting both Special Make-Up (SMU) product development and fit & wear testing initiatives. This position plays a critical role in ensuring product excellence from concept through commercialization by combining hands-on product evaluation with development execution.

This role is split approximately 50% SMU product development and 50% fit and wear testing, requiring a balance of analytical thinking, product intuition, and strong cross- functional collaboration.

Key Responsibilities
Fit & Wear Testing (50%)

  • Plan, coordinate, and execute fit and wear testing protocols across footwear styles.

  • Evaluate product performance, fit, comfort, and durability through structured

    testing.

  • Collect, analyze, and document feedback from wear testers.

  • Partner with Product Development, Design, and Technical teams to identify issues

    and recommend improvements.

  • Track and report on key fit and performance metrics to support decision-making.

  • Maintain consistency in fit standards and testing methodologies.

    SMU Product Development (50%)

  • Support the end-to-end development of SMU (Special Make-Up) footwear products.

  • Collaborate with Design, Merchandising, and factory partners to execute product

    briefs.

  • Manage timelines, ensuring on-time sample delivery and commercialization

    milestones.

  • Review samples for accuracy against design intent, specifications, and quality

    standards.

  • Track development progress, costs, and changes throughout the lifecycle.

  • Assist in resolving development issues related to materials, construction, and fit.

Qualifications & Experience

  • 1–3 years of experience in footwear product development, wear testing, or a related field.

  • Strong understanding of footwear construction, materials, and fit principles.

  • Experience working with factories and cross-functional teams.

  • Ability to assess product both qualitatively (comfort, fit) and quantitatively (test

    results, metrics)

  • Highly organized with strong attention to detail and follow-through.

  • Comfortable managing multiple projects and shifting priorities.

  • Strong communication and collaboration skills.

    Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in both product development and wear testing environments.

  • Background in performance or lifestyle footwear categories.

  • Familiarity with testing protocols and data collection methods.

  • Passion for product innovation and continuous improvement.

    Key Competencies

  • Product curiosity and hands-on mindset.

  • Analytical thinking and problem-solving.

  • Strong organizational and project management skills.

  • Clear communication across teams and partners.

  • Ability to balance technical rigor with product intuition.

    Compensation range : $80,000 - $110,000

$80,000 - $110,000 a year
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

About the Company

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The People Brand