Senior Specialist Fabric (Hybrid)
Auto req ID: 24767
Title: Senior Specialist Fabric (Hybrid)
Job Function: Apparel
Location: PDC
Company: Harley-Davidson Motor Company
Full or Part-Time: Full Time
Shift: SHIFT1
At Harley-Davidson, we are building more than machines. It’s our passion and commitment to continue the evolution of this storied brand, and heighten the desirability of the Harley-Davidson experience. To keep building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution, and emotion we need the best and brightest talent. We stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Are you ready to join us?
The Harley-Davidson Motor Company Product Development Center (PDC) located in Wauwatosa, WI is home to the mantra – You dream it. We build it. Join our team as a Senior Specialist Fabric (Hybrid).
Job Summary
As part of our General Merchandise & Apparel Product Development team, your role as a Senior Fabric Specialist will require you to carry out all aspects of research, development, and design in materials to support the overall design and development process. You’ll be involved in the overall fabric development and color approval process and be a strategic partner with our designers.
Job Responsibilities
- Lead overall material development for knits, wovens, technical performance fabrics, and seasonal trend direction.
- Collaborate with Design to create materials that achieve specifics around product functionality (For example, motorcycle riding gear = abrasion, impact, waterproofing, wind-proofing, heating/cooling, breathable fabrics, and reflective material)
- Research and present emerging materials trends into seasonal palettes
- Partner with Design and Production to ensure the total fabric package is suitable for end use (meets both performance and aesthetic direction)
- Participate in sample review sessions to achieve the best product oversight.
- Create a collaborative and strategic partnership with fabric mills
- Review testing with the product team to ensure fabric quality meets end use requirement
- Develop and maintain a fabrics library with up-to-date materials, testing history, and inspirational fabrics.
- Continuously build advanced materials expertise and work to create a network of contacts within the industry.
- Evaluate the risks associated with all material developments and communicate them to the product teams.
- Manage and maintain color standards and libraries, ensuring accuracy and accessibility for all teams.
- Ensure color consistency across multiple product categories and styles while also considering the unique characteristics of each item.
- Collaborate with production teams to ensure color accuracy in final products and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
Education Requirements
Education Specifications
Bachelor's Degree Preferred
Experience Requirements
Experience Requirements
- Typically requires 5 years of experience in fabric, materials, or textile design
- Comprehensive understanding of the textile manufacturing processes
- Understands leather and technical performing fabrics that can protect a motorcycle rider
- Fabric knowledge in abrasion, impact, waterproofing, windproof, heating/cooling, breathable fabrics, and reflective material
- Knowledge of appropriate textile testing methods, interpretation, and application of results.
- Knowledge of high-performance textiles and the functional aspects of performance apparel.
Preferred
- 2 – 3 years Color approval experience
- Superior rating on Farnsworth Munsell Visual Assessment Test
Harley-Davidson is an equal opportunity employer that continues to build a culture of inclusion, belonging and equity through our commitment to attracting and retaining diverse talent from all backgrounds, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe in fairness and providing a level playing field for all. We foster a culture that thrives on diverse perspectives and contributions to ignite the creativity and innovation to fuel our business and enhance the employee and customer experience.
The pay range shown represents the national average pay range for this role. Your pay may be more or less than the stated range and is dependent on your geographic location and level of experience.
We offer an inclusive compensation package for all full-time salaried employees including, but not limited to, annual bonus programs, health insurance benefits, a 401k program, onsite fitness centers and employee stores, employee discounts on products and accessories, and more. Learn more about Harley-Davidson here.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.
Direct Reports: No
Travel Required: 0 - 10%
Pay Range: 82400 - 127700
Visa Sponsorship: This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship
Relocation: This position is not eligible for relocation assistance
Nearest Major Market: Milwaukee
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