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