Product Development Assistant

Catbird, a fine jewelry DTC brand, is hiring a Product Development Assistant.  The Product Development Assistant is responsible for ensuring the smooth operation of the product development process by managing product information systems, coordinating with cross-functional teams, overseeing various administrative and logistical tasks, and maintaining the master model and sample library. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, analytical skills, and the ability to work collaboratively across departments. This position is based in our Brooklyn Navy Yard HQ, hybrid after 90 days of employment.

• System Management:
• Ensure internal systems (PLM, ERP) are always accurate and up-to-date with the latest product information.
• Create and update Bills of Materials (BOMs) and new item records in PLM & ERP systems.
• Create data import sheets to streamline the integration of new product information into internal systems.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
• Collaborate with Purchasing, Merchandising, Finance, Inventory, and Creative teams to complete tasks related to new product launches.
• Facilitate communication between departments to ensure timely and accurate execution of product development tasks.
• Purchase Order Management:
• Manage Design & Product Development purchase orders from initial preparation and submission to vendors, through receipt of goods, cost tracking, and invoice submission to Accounts Payable.
• Maintain accurate purchasing logs, sample status updates, and cost records.
• Quality Control Support:
• Assist with quality control (QC) of products as needed, ensuring they meet company standards before approval for production.
• Market Analysis Support:
• Provide support on competitive and trend analysis to inform product development and design decisions.
• Vendor Relations:
• Contact vendors for Requests for Information (RFI) or Requests for Quotes (RFQ) as required.
• Maintain strong relationships with vendors to ensure timely and accurate delivery of materials and samples.
• Master Model and Sample Library Management:
• Maintain the master model and sample library, ensuring all models and samples are organized, cataloged, and accessible to the team.
• Meeting Coordination:
• Take detailed notes during Design & Development meetings, recording action items and ensuring follow-up on critical tasks.
• Prepare reports and samples for design and development meetings.

• 1-2 years of experience in product development, jewelry industry preferred
• Passionate about jewelry, design, and product development.
• Strong knowledge of and interest in Catbird Jewelry and jewelry in general.
• Experience with PLM and ERP systems is preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and analytical skills.
• A self-starter who operates with initiative and ownership of projects.
• Positive attitude and eagerness to take on new challenges.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, balancing multiple priorities.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Proficient with Excel and Google Sheets, and comfortable learning new systems.
• Proactive and self-motivated with a strong work ethic.
• Ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Collaborative team player with a positive attitude.
• Creative problem-solver with a focus on continuous improvement.