Product Development Analyst

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