Samples Specialist I

JOB SUMMARY: The Samples Specialist I is responsible for assisting with sample development and execution for both existing product specifications and development prototypes. This role requires a general understanding of product production and how finished products (in packaging) ship to retailers. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: • Assists other Samples Specialists and Product Development Managers with brainstorming and creating prototype samples for initial review and costing for markets, brand development and retailer line reviews. • Conducts rework as needed to achieve optimal end use. • Assists with producing high quality samples according to product specification for sales and market presentations. • Works directly with Product Development and Quality Control for red and yellow seal samples for prior to production or when needed for factory changes. • Helps maintain files of samples received and updates as necessary to ensure long term accuracy of products by allowing reference to original samples. • Assists with the tracking of outstanding samples. • Helps acknowledge receipts and follows up with the Product Development team on delayed samples. • Assists with reviewing incoming samples from factories to ensure accuracy of the product specifications and communicates errors to the Product Development team. • Helps to ensure all market samples are of highest quality, are delivered on time and have proper packaging/fold. • Verifies that sample requests are completed and shipped on time and confirms delivery with the requestor. • Works with the Logistics team to track and report monthly shipping charges/invoices. ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS: • Minimum 2 years sewing and sample construction experience required; advanced expertise in sewing and sample construction is a plus • Production and manufacturing experience is a plus • Ability to recognize potential backlogs of work and adjust accordingly • Ability to identify samples that do not meet quality standards • Ability to prioritize workload to ensure on-time delivery of samples • Organizational skills to coordinate tracking of samples and manage multiple projects • Attention to detail • Ability to multi-task • Basic communication skills PHYSICAL DEMANDS: • Ability to withstand prolonged periods sitting at a desk • Frequent use of upper extremities to perform keyboard functions and work on a computer • Ability to occasionally stand/walk • Ability to ascended/descend stairs to and from sample production area • Ability to occasionally lift and/or carry objects weighing up to and including 25 pounds • Ability to frequently travel by automobile, domestically up to 10% of total time • Ability to crawl, bend, kneel, climb, and/or squat