Raw Materials R&D Associate

Raw Materials R D Associate at

GREY MATTER CONCEPTS

Raw Materials R D Associate at

GREY MATTER CONCEPTS

in Weehawken, New Jersey Posted in about 9 hours ago.

Type:

full-time

Job Description:

Role Overview The Raw Materials R D Associate supports the development, execution, and documentation of fabric, trim, and component innovation across seasonal and core programs. This role partners closely with Product Development, Design, Sourcing, and overseas mills and factories to manage raw material developments from concept through approval, ensuring quality, cost, performance, and on-time execution. This is a hands-on, detail-driven role ideal for someone with fabric and sock knowledge, vendor communication skills, and process discipline, who is ready to take ownership of seasonal developments while contributing to longer-term raw material strategies. Primary Responsibilities Fabric & Raw Materials Development Manage seasonal fabric and trim developments from initial request through approval or rejection. Prepare and send development requests, physical cuttings, and technical details to allocated mills and factories. Track development timelines, follow up on outstanding submissions, and ensure alignment with T&A calendars. Review fabric and sock submissions for construction, content, weight, hand feel, performance, and appearance. Support specialty developments including socks, seamless, novelty constructions, and performance fabrics. Technical Evaluation & Quality Support Evaluate fabrics early in development to flag potential quality, performance, or cost risks. Partner with senior leadership to troubleshoot development challenges and propose solutions. Process, Tracking & Documentation Build and maintain fabric development binders and digital libraries. Input all fabric and trim data into trackers. Maintain organized records including fabric specs, vendor responses, costs, test results(As needed), and approvals. Create and distribute weekly (or as needed) fabric development status reports. Support the creation and upkeep of core and legacy fabric matrices. Cross-Functional & Vendor Communication Communicate regularly with overseas mills and factories via email, video calls, and in person as needed. Coordinate with Design, Product Development, and Sourcing teams to support approvals and decision-making. Escalate development issues in a timely manner with proposed options and recommendations. Assist in aligning fabric choices with design intent, cost targets, and production feasibility. Innovation & Sustainability Support Assist in researching new fibers, fabric constructions, finishes, and technologies. Support conversations around more sustainable raw material options when available. Presentation & Department Support Assist in preparing presentations, inspiration boards, and vendor submissions for internal reviews. Help organize mill and factory inspirational materials for seasonal and strategic initiatives. Support broader raw material process improvements as the department continues to evolve. Experience & Qualifications 3+ years of experience in Raw Materials, Fabric R D. Strong working knowledge of fabric construction, fibers, finishes, and basic testing principles. Experience working with overseas mills and factories. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; familiarity with PLM systems preferred. Highly organized with strong attention to detail and follow-through. Comfortable managing multiple developments in a fast-paced environment. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Bachelor's degree in Textiles, Apparel, or a related field preferred.