Associate Product Manager – Apparel Industry

Job Title: Associate Product Manager – Apparel Industry

Location: Easton, PA Hybrid (Initial training onsite, then remote flexibility)

Travel: Occasional travel to New York office (less than 10%)

Salary: $50K – $65K

Job Summary:

Our client, a leading company in the apparel industry, is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Associate Product Manager to join their team. This role is ideal for candidates with 1-3 years of experience in a similar position, managing the pre-production process within the apparel production cycle.

The Associate Product Manager will play a key role in coordinating product needs between tech, design, and sales teams in the U.S., while collaborating with overseas teams that oversee production with factories and mills. This position supports the Product Manager in ensuring smooth execution from prototype development to production handoff, maintaining strict adherence to timelines.

Candidates with transferable skills will be considered only if directly related to the pre-production process of a similar product in a comparable industry. Prior experience in the full production cycle, including communication with overseas partners, is a significant advantage.

Key Responsibilities:

Product Development & Pre-Production:

• Assist in maintaining Time and Action (T&A) Calendars for each account/line.
• Support Cross-Functional Team (CFT) meetings by preparing agendas and recaps for the Product Manager.
• Manage data entry in PLM systems (YPLM) and ensure accuracy.
• Order, track, and follow up on sample yardage and components as needed.
• Monitor and update sampling, swatch books, strike-offs, lab dips, and fabric development progress.
• Track Tech and Design team approvals and follow up as necessary.
• Maintain records of MOQ's, lead times, surcharges, and expenses.

Production Support:

• Assist in creating bulk production purchase orders and cutting lists using ERP systems (Blue Cherry, QLIK reports).
• Learn and optimize Blue Cherry reporting systems for improved efficiency.
• Support the setup and maintenance of Quote files under managerial guidance.
• Communicate with internal teams, factories, and fabric & trim suppliers under supervision.
• Track and log factory liabilities, expenses, and invoices.
• Assist in production WIP tracking and follow-ups.
• Prepare Work Orders for warehouse inventory transfers.
• Provide additional reporting and support as assigned by the Product Manager.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor's degree preferred, but relevant experience will be considered.
• Experience: 1-3 years in the apparel industry or a related field is required.
• Technical Skills:
• Strong Microsoft Office skills (Excel, Word, Outlook, etc.)
• Experience with PLM and ERP systems (e.g., Blue Cherry, YPLM) is a plus.
• Soft Skills:
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong organizational and follow-up skills
• High attention to detail and financial acumen
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment
• Team player with an eagerness to learn and adaptability to shifting priorities
• Physical Requirements: Ability to sit, stand, and walk for up to 8 hours per day.