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%)

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

  
  


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

  
  

  testing.

  
  


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  Collect, analyze, and document feedback from wear testers.

  
  


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

  
  

  and recommend improvements.

  
  


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

  
  


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  Maintain consistency in fit standards and testing methodologies.

  
  

  SMU Product Development (50%)

  
  

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

  
  


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

  
  

  briefs.

  
  


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  Manage timelines, ensuring on-time sample delivery and commercialization

  
  

  milestones.

  
  


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

  
  

  standards.

  
  


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

  
  


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

  
  

Qualifications & Experience

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

  
  


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

  
  


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  Experience working with factories and cross-functional teams.

  
  


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

  
  

  results, metrics)

  
  


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

  
  


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  Comfortable managing multiple projects and shifting priorities.

  
  


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  Strong communication and collaboration skills.

  
  

  Preferred Qualifications

  
  

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  Experience in both product development and wear testing environments.

  
  


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  Background in performance or lifestyle footwear categories.

  
  


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  Familiarity with testing protocols and data collection methods.

  
  


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  Passion for product innovation and continuous improvement.

  
  

  Key Competencies

  
  

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  Product curiosity and hands-on mindset.

  
  


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  Analytical thinking and problem-solving.

  
  


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  Strong organizational and project management skills.

  
  


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  Clear communication across teams and partners.

  
  


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  Ability to balance technical rigor with product intuition.

  
  

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