Product Designer

@ Polo Custom Products

Position Summary

The Product Designer at Polo Custom Products is responsible for completing all aspects of assigned projects, including designing, developing, and improving new or existing products and directing prototype building and testing. The role demands ensuring project accuracy, effective communication with both internal and external customers, and strict adherence to customer requirements from conception to production.

Essential Functions

• Serve as a positive role model in alignment with Polo's corporate culture.
• Operate within deadlines and meet project schedules and requirements.
• Utilize computer design software for pattern making.
• Develop product design concepts from client requirements or as proprietary items.
• Analyze design requirements and recommend solutions or alternate constructions.
• Estimate product manufacturing costs using customer requirements and data.
• Employ industrial processes and new technology to build quality prototypes.
• Collaborate with the Quality Manager to define and test new product prototypes.
• Maintain communication with production personnel and customers regarding design improvements.
• Work with quality control teams to test and validate findings.
• Prepare detailed manufacturing instructions.
• Attend seminars, trade shows, and facility visits as required.
• Travel to Polo sites as needed for prototypes and production support.

Additional Responsibilities

• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams during project transitions.
• Flex work schedule to meet customer deadlines and business needs.
• Assist in sales presentations and internal design meetings.

Position Requirements

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 2+ years manufacturing experience or a 4-year degree in textile design, engineering, manufacturing, or a related field. Industrial/home sewing experience is considered a plus.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Expertise in textile/soft goods design and creative problem-solving.
• Proficiency with computer design software for pattern making.
• Proactive, highly organized, and detail-oriented.
• Strong team player with excellent communication skills.
• Willingness to work extended hours to complete projects.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

This role requires extended computer work, ability to communicate effectively, and physical activity including walking, bending, and occasional lifting (up to 35 lbs). Work is primarily in an office environment with occasional plant exposure to noise, fumes, and varying temperatures.

Key Skills/Competency

• Pattern Making
• Textile Design
• Prototype Development
• Cost Estimation
• Industrial Processes
• Communication
• Teamwork
• Creative Problem Solving
• Software Proficiency
• Attention to Detail