Location: New York, NY Employment Type: Full-Time Work Arrangement: In-Office Salary: Based on Experience
Position Overview
A growing beauty and consumer products company is seeking a creative, detail-oriented, and highly organized Product Developer / Merchandiser to join its New York City team.
The company specializes in developing and importing hair tools, beauty tools, mirrors, and cosmetic accessories for major national retailers.
This position combines product development, trend research, merchandising, sourcing, and overseas factory coordination. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of consumer products, retail trends, pricing, and packaging, with the ability to manage product development from initial concept through sampling, approvals, and production.
Key Responsibilities
Product Development & Merchandising
Research market trends, competitor products, and emerging opportunities in the beauty and consumer products industry.
Conduct competitive shopping and identify new product ideas.
Develop product assortments based on retailer needs, target pricing, brand positioning, and seasonal trends.
Collaborate with designers to develop product concepts, colors, packaging, and presentations.
Identify opportunities to introduce new products and expand existing product categories.
Ensure products align with customer expectations, retail trends, and target price points.
Sourcing & Factory Coordination
Communicate directly with overseas factories regarding product sourcing, pricing, specifications, and development.
Coordinate product samples, revisions, and production requirements.
Review product samples and provide feedback to factories.
Work with suppliers to ensure product quality, functionality, and design expectations are met.
Coordinate product and packaging approvals.
Follow up with factories to maintain development timelines and resolve outstanding issues.
Product Management & Buyer Support
Maintain accurate costing sheets, product specifications, and development records.
Track product development calendars and ensure projects remain on schedule.
Coordinate with internal teams to prepare product assortments and samples.
Assist in preparing buyer presentations and product proposals.
Organize merchandise and samples for buyer meetings and trade shows.
Manage multiple product development projects simultaneously.
Ensure accurate communication between design, sourcing, merchandising, and production teams.
Qualifications
3+ years of experience in product development, merchandising, or a related field preferred.
Experience in beauty, personal care, accessories, or consumer products strongly preferred.
Experience communicating and coordinating directly with overseas factories.
Strong understanding of product development, sourcing, pricing, and retail merchandising.
Excellent eye for product trends, packaging, colors, and design.
Ability to develop commercially viable products within target price points.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including costing sheets and product tracking.
Strong organizational and project management skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Exceptional attention to detail and follow-up.
Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Creative, proactive, and comfortable working independently and collaboratively.