Yarn Product R&D / Developer

Job Title: Yarn Product R&D / Developer

Location: Hybrid - Portland, OR or Fort Worth, TX

Reports To: Director of Product Design and Development

Job Overview:

We are seeking an experienced and fiber-passionate Product Development Manager to lead the development of new and existing yarns—from initial concept to launch. This role is ideal for someone who combines technical knowledge of fiber and yarn construction with creative intuition and strong project management skills. You will be responsible for managing supplier relationships, fiber sourcing, dye processes, and product testing, ensuring every yarn reflects our brand's quality, values, and maker-focused mission.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Lead the research, planning, and execution of new yarn development projects in alignment with brand goals and seasonal strategies.
• Identify and source appropriate fibers, blends, spinning techniques, and dye methods to create high-quality, innovative yarns.
• Work closely with the design and marketing teams to ensure yarn launches are aligned with pattern collections, color stories, and campaign timelines.
• Manage relationships with mills and fiber suppliers worldwide.
• Oversee sampling and lab dips, and ensure production meets quality, consistency, and sustainability standards[JB1] . 
• Coordinate approvals for base yarns, colors, and treatments, ensuring accuracy in final product specifications.
• Create and maintain technical product documentation including spec sheets, fiber content data, gauge ranges, and care instructions.
• Assist in testing colorfastness, performance (swatching), yardage accuracy, and washability.
• Ensure clear communication with internal teams and external vendors on yarn performance expectations and issues.
• Provide yarn education, talking points, and technical background to the marketing and customer service teams.
• Support go-to-market plans with materials for kits, pattern support, and retail partners.
• Stay informed on fiber and yarn trends, sustainability innovations, and industry best practices.
• Explore new spinning methods, dye techniques, and material sourcing opportunities aligned with brand values and maker needs.

About Us

Local Crafts, (formerly Premier Needle Arts (PNA)), manages a variety of well-known brands, including Jimmy Beans Wool, Madeline Tosh, DellaQ, Connecting Threads, Knit Picks, Superior Threads, Crochet.com and Berroco. Our hands-on approach helps us provide fabrics, threads, yarns, and tools that meet our customers' preferences while maintaining exceptional quality.

Available through dedicated consumer websites, Amazon, wholesale distributors, local retail partners, and consumer shows, our products are loved by craft enthusiasts at every level. We help our customers love what they make!

As an equal opportunity employer, Local Crafts is committed to creating and maintaining a supportive and inclusive work environment. We empower each team member to reach their full potential and foster an atmosphere that inspires creativity among our customers.

Why Join Us?

You’ll play a central role in shaping brands beloved by knitters and crocheters around the world. From conceptualizing beautiful designs to building community-centered collections, your work will inspire creativity, connection, and joy through yarn.

Required Skills & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Textiles, Knitwear Design, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in yarn or textile product development, sourcing, or production management.
• Deep knowledge of yarn construction, fiber properties, and dyeing processes (natural and synthetic).
• Hands-on familiarity with knitting and/or crochet.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities with domestic and international suppliers.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and spreadsheet management.
• Ability to manage timelines, troubleshoot production issues, and meet quality standards.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
• Experience in the hand-knit/craft yarn industry.

• Understanding of the maker community and product lifecycle from fiber to finished object.

Our compensation package is designed to match industry standards and account for factors like your geographical location, expertise, and years of experience. In addition to a competitive salary, you'll have access to performance-based bonuses and a wide range of benefits.

The starting pay range for this position is:

$65,000 - 85,000 per year.

Benefits

We offer a generous benefits package, including: 

• Multiple medical, dental and vision plan options after 30 days (with company contributions to the premium costs)
• Healthcare Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Company-paid Life, Short and Long-Term Disability, and worldwide travel assistance benefits
• Voluntary life and income replacement plans
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Employer Match
• Generous paid time off and holiday pay policies
• Employee discounts at all Local Crafts companies!