Designer and Product Developer

HAVEN Head Office

Job Title:

Designer and Product Developer

Location:

HAVEN Head Office, Vancouver, BC

Job Description:

Join HAVEN as a Designer and Product Developer, playing a pivotal role in creating innovative, high-quality products that align with our brand vision. This dynamic position involves collaborating with the Creative Director and leadership team to develop seasonal collections, from concept to production. Responsibilities include managing technical documentation, overseeing sample development, and coordinating raw materials and vendors to ensure timely execution. You’ll actively contribute to fit reviews, material innovation, and collaborative projects while maintaining strict quality standards. This role is ideal for a highly organized, detail-oriented individual passionate about design, functionality, and continuous improvement.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Product Development & Coordination

  • Collaborate with the Creative Director and leadership team to coordinate, develop, and execute seasonal products aligned with the brand's vision.
  • Ensure all products meet design, quality, and functionality standards while adhering to GTM (Go-to-Market) deliverables and development timelines.
  • Create detailed sketches and technical packages using Adobe Illustrator to clearly communicate design intent.
  • Partner with pattern makers and manufacturers to develop production-ready samples that meet design and functional standards.
  • Develop patterns, mock-ups, and prototypes to explore and confirm new concepts, construction techniques, and solutions.
  • Innovate construction details and fit concepts to enhance product performance and user experience.
  • Actively participate in fit review and wear-test processes to evaluate and refine designs.

Workflow Management

  • Organize and manage the daily workflow to ensure smooth progression through all stages of development and production.
  • Maintain detailed tracking systems for product development milestones and timelines.

Technical Documentation

  • Create and maintain comprehensive product spec packages and BOMs (Bills of Materials) using PLM software, ensuring accuracy and data integrity throughout the process.
  • Update and manage technical documentation as design changes occur.

Material Management

  • Coordinate and manage fabric, trims, labels, and other raw materials required for seasonal production.
  • Build and process purchase orders for all raw materials and production runs while monitoring inventory levels and costs in both PLM and Shopify.

Sample Development

  • Oversee the development of proto samples, ensuring they align with technical specifications and quality standards.
  • Measure, evaluate, and provide feedback on samples to meet design and functional requirements.
  • Participate in fit reviews and wear tests to refine product performance and comfort.

Vendor Relationships

  • Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers through effective email communication and in-person meetings.
  • Coordinate with vendors to ensure timely delivery of samples and materials, troubleshooting issues as needed.

Cross-functional Collaboration

  • Work closely with the Creative Director to ensure products align with the design vision and brand ethos.
  • Partner with other internal teams, such as marketing and operations, to support product launches and promotional activities.

Innovation & Problem Solving

  • Proactively address challenges in development and production processes to ensure smooth execution of deliverables.
  • Identify opportunities for process improvements or innovations in materials and construction techniques.

Collaborative Projects

  • Contribute to the planning, development, and execution of collaborative projects with external partners.
  • Ensure collaborations meet HAVEN’s quality standards and reflect the brand’s values.

Quality Control

  • Monitor and maintain product quality standards throughout the development process.
  • Ensure consistency across materials, construction, and sizing to deliver premium results.

Market Awareness

  • Stay updated on industry trends, innovations, and competitor activities to contribute fresh ideas and maintain the brand’s competitive edge.

Qualifications and Assets:

Relevant Experience: 2-3 years in product design and development, ideally in fashion or technical apparel.

Technical Proficiency: Advanced Adobe Illustrator and PLM system skills for specs and BOMs.

Material Expertise: Strong knowledge of fabrics, trims, and manufacturing processes.

Sample Development: Experience managing proto samples, fit reviews, and wear tests.

Project Management: Ability to handle workflows and meet strict deadlines.

Problem-Solving: Skilled at finding innovative solutions to design and production challenges.

Collaboration: Strong communication skills for working with teams and vendors.

Detail-Oriented: Precise in technical documentation and quality control.

Industry Insight: Awareness of trends and innovations in materials and design.

Passion and Adaptability: Commitment to creating functional, high-quality products in a fast-paced environment.

Compensation:

The pay range for this position is $50,000-$75,000 per year depending on qualifications and experience.

How to Apply:

Please send a cover letter, resume, and a portfolio showcasing relevant photography work to careers@havenshop.com. Applicants must include HAVEN Recruit: Designer and Product Developer in the subject line.