Senior Product Testing Developer

Who We Are:

Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today.

JOB MISSION:
As a Senior Product Testing Developer in the New Balance Boston office, you will be a core member of the New Balance apparel materials and development team. You will partner cross-functionally with multiple stakeholders within R&D along with Global Tech Services, Product Management, QC, Production and Sourcing as well as with our external supply partners to drive quality of product and information in prototyping and commercialization. The role consults and supports global development testing within required source bases from prototyping through commercialization including testing validation, tracking, troubleshooting and lifecycle management. This associate will be responsible for achieving key calendar dates & deliverables including the Buy Ready decision gate.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Partners with the global R&D team on material and garment testing initiatives and assists with special projects as needed to support shared objectives.
• Garment Testing leadership, management of supplier onboarding, standards, and confirming testing per GTM development and buy ready milestones.
• Comprehension of industry test standards (ASTM, AATCC, ISO) for performance, durability, and sustainability.
• Collaborate with the materials, development, and sourcing teams to ensure the handover of FIS, testing documents, and sustainability certifications follow New Balance standards.
• Lead prototyping material application and testing reviews and troubleshooting; drive effective communication and escalation of issues.
• Manage category development and sublimated garment testing ensuring all products can achieve desired end use, manufacturability, sustainability goals, and quality functions.
• Consistently achieves results through tough circumstances by identifying at risk materials and construction and proactively troubleshoots potential issues to ensure product can be commercialized and buy ready.
• Be centralized point of contact from R&D for all development testing through SMS phase and Buy Ready.

PREFERRED SKILLS:

• Adaptability: Results-oriented and analytical, you thrive in a cross-functional environment, wearing different hats pending the topic or issue at hand.
• Knowledge of Testing Procedures: Accountable for the technical integrity and manufacturing feasibility of apparel products.
• Materials Focus: Experience working in Textile Science, Color Development, Apparel, Footwear, Technical materials including yarns, knitting, weaving, dyeing, printing and finishing techniques. Bodywear materials is a plus.

• Vendor Relationships: Experience partnering with T1 and T2 vendors to develop and test a product from inception to production.

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:

• Bachelor's degree in textiles, apparel manufacturing or related field, plus a minimum 5-8 years of experience focusing on performance testing, garment construction, material development, and sourcing.
• Strong collaborative skills with a passion to drive results through cross-functional interactions and influence.
• Superior technical knowledge of fabric construction and GB testing parameters.
• Proficient computer skills in Adobe Creative Cloud, MS Office, Excel, PLM preferred.
• Strong organization and time management skills with the ability to adapt to shifting demands.
• Some Domestic and International travel may be required as needed.

Regular Associate Benefits

Our products are only as good as the people we hire, so we make sure to hire the best and treat them accordingly. New Balance offers a comprehensive traditional benefits package including three options for medical insurance as well as dental, vision, life insurance and 401K. We also proudly offer a slate of more nontraditional perks - opportunities like online learning and development courses, tuition reimbursement, $100 monthly student loan support and various mentorship programs - that encourage our associates to grow personally as they develop professionally. You'll also enjoy a yearly $1,000 lifestyle reimbursement, 4 weeks of vacations, 12 holidays and generous parental leave, because work-life balance is more than just a buzzword - it's part of our culture.

Temporary associates are provided three options for medical insurance as well as dental and vision insurance and an associate discount.

Part time associates are provided 401k, short term disability, a yearly $300 lifestyle reimbursement and an associate discount.

Flexible Work Schedule

For decades we have fostered a unique culture founded on our values with a particular focus on in-person teamwork and collaboration. Our North American hybrid model encourages rich in-person experiences, showcasing our commitment to teamwork and connection, while maintaining flexibility for associates. New Balance Associates currently work in office three days per week (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday). Our offices are fully open, and amenities are available across our North American office locations. To continue our focus on hybrid work we have introduced "Work from Anywhere" (WFA) for four weeks per calendar year. This model will help us enhance our culture while continuing to maintain elements of flexibility.

Equal Opportunity Employer

New Balance provides equal opportunities for all current and prospective associates to ensure that employment, training, compensation, transfer, promotion and other terms, conditions and privileges of employment are provided without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, handicap, genetic information and/or status as an Armed Forces service medal veteran, recently separated veteran, qualified disabled veteran or other protected veteran, or any other protected status.