Gamakatsu Seeks Product Development Specialist

Product Development Specialist

Location: Fife, WA
Department: Product Development
Employment Type: Full-Time in person position, not remote.

We are seeking a Product Development Specialist with deep expertise in fishing to
help drive innovation and product excellence. This role blends hands-on fishing
knowledge with creative product development, contributing to the design and refinement
of gear that meets the high standards of the fishing community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with design and engineering teams to develop new products tailored
  to the fishing market.
• Provide expert insights into fishing techniques, gear preferences, and market
  trends.
• Participate in product concepting, prototyping, and field testing.
• Offer feedback on product performance and usability based on real-world fishing
  experience.
• Support cross-functional efforts including marketing, sales, and customer
  feedback loops.
• Responsible for development and adherence to project and department budgets.
• Responsible for effective leadership of all product development projects from
  concept to launch, as well as special projects with urgent deadlines.
• Responsible for vendor management to oversee product cost and quality.
• Communicate with factory contacts regarding new products and product pricing
  negotiations.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong background in fishing, with firsthand experience in competitive or
  recreational angling.
• Familiarity with product design software. (preferred but not required).
• Ability to translate fishing expertise into product features and improvements.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Creative mindset with attention to detail and a passion for innovation.
• Problem solver with a track record of developing products from concept to market launch.
• Solid knowledge of category management, product development, marketing, and sales principles.
• Possess strong planning skills as well as analytical, problem solving, strategic thinking, and project management.
• Ability to travel as required, including outside the US.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in the fishing industry.

Bonus Skills:

• Experience in product design, engineering, or outdoor sporting goods.
• Knowledge of fishing gear manufacturing processes and materials.

Work Hours:

• This is a regular, benefits-eligible position with normal office hours.
• Occasional evening and/or weekend hours may be required.

Salary Range:

• Commensurate with experience.

Learn more at https://gamakatsu.com/careers/.