Apparel Materials Developer II at Milwaukee Tool, Milwaukee, WI
Apparel Materials Developer II at Milwaukee Tool in Milwaukee, WI. Full-time. Est. up to $130k. Apply with swipeandhired.
At Milwaukee Tool, Jobsite Apparel is built for the demands of professional trades. Our team develops performance-driven apparel by combining user insight, material innovation, technical development, and rigorous validation to solve real problems on the jobsite.
Your Role on Our Team:
We are looking for a Materials Developer who will help shape the future of Milwaukee Tool Jobsite Apparel by identifying, developing, testing, and commercializing innovative textile solutions across our apparel portfolio. This role will work at the intersection of material science, product design, technical development, sourcing, and manufacturing, translating product needs and jobsite challenges into materials that deliver measurable performance.
The ideal candidate brings strong textile knowledge, curiosity, and a hands-on development mindset. They will partner closely with Design, Technical Design, Product Management, Engineering, suppliers, mills, and testing laboratories to move materials from early exploration through validation and production.
This is an opportunity to do more than source fabrics. You will help build Milwaukee Tool’s material capabilities, influence future product platforms, and create differentiated solutions designed specifically for the professional trades.
You’ll be DISRUPTIVE through these duties and responsibilities:
- Lead seasonal sourcing and development of all fabrics and trims, from concept through approval.
- Lead research and development of new fabric and trim concepts and technologies, proactively proposing solutions aligned to user needs, trends, and business priorities.
- Translate insights from trade shows, supplier visits, market research, and design briefs into clear material sourcing recommendations for cross-functional partners.
- Maintain complete and accurate material data in product lifecycle management (PLM) software, including quality, pricing, color, minimum order quantities (MOQs), and lead times.
- Own fabric and trim testing standards and test plans, ensuring alignment with product performance and compliance requirements.
- Manage all supplier, third-party, and in-house laboratory testing, including submits, tracking, and follow-up.
- Compile, analyze, and communicate test performance results, escalating risks and driving resolution.
- Manage material development milestones to meet the Design & Development calendar, ensuring timely approvals, documentation, and clear communication with suppliers and partners.
- Manage daily supplier communication and status tracking for lab dips, testing, and strike-offs to keep development on schedule.
- Lead raw material supplier relationships, proactively scheduling and leading meetings to strengthen alignment, capability, and performance.
- Manage raw material planning and booking, including greige planning and material commitments for prototypes, SMS, and bulk production.
- Execute and communicate material orders for prototypes, testing, SMS, and bulk production, while supporting sourcing, vendor meetings, development, and marketing needs throughout the material lifecycle.
- Proactively identify manufacturing risks related to materials and trims and drive mitigation plans in partnership with suppliers and internal teams.
The TOOLS you’ll bring with you:
- Bachelor’s degree in Apparel Design, Textile Design, or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
- Ability to travel up to 25%
- Strong technical knowledge across textile development, including fibers, yarns, fabric construction, finishes, and performance technologies.
- Strong knowledge of industry testing standards.
- Experience with PLM software is preferred but not required.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build collaborative relationships.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and seasonal development cycles simultaneously.
- Strong commitment to our brand, professional users, and innovation.
We provide these great perks and benefits:
- Robust health, dental and vision insurance plans
- Generous 401 (K) savings plan
- Education assistance
- On-site wellness, fitness center, food, and coffee service
- And many more, check out our benefits site HERE .
Milwaukee Tool is an equal opportunity employer.