Product Development Specialist - Entry Level (Gulfport)

If you love fishing, follow the latest tackle and gear, and have ever wondered what it would be like to help bring new fishing products to market, this could be your opportunity to get your foot in the door. American Baitworks is expanding our Product Development team, and we're looking for someone who's eager to learn, ready to work hard, and excited about building a career in the fishing industry. This is an entry-level position, so we're not looking for years of product development experience, we're looking for the right person. A recent college graduate, lifelong angler, or motivated self-starter with a passion for fishing and a desire to learn could be a great fit.

You'll get hands-on experience with the entire product development process - from early concepts and prototypes to packaging, photography, production, and ultimately seeing products make their way onto retail shelves and into anglers' hands. You'll work alongside an experienced team and interact with suppliers, manufacturers, sales and marketing teams, and leaders throughout the company. It's a unique opportunity to learn the fishing tackle business from the inside while developing skills and experience that can build the foundation for a long-term career in the industry.

At American Baitworks, we're passionate about fishing, the outdoors, and creating products anglers are excited to use. We're a growing company where people have the opportunity to make an impact, take on responsibility, and grow along with the business. We offer a collaborative, fast-moving environment along with competitive pay and a benefits package for eligible full-time employees. Most importantly, you'll be joining a team of people who genuinely care about the fishing industry and the products we bring to market. If you've been looking for a way to turn your passion for fishing into a career, we'd love to hear from you.

*Please note: this is an onsite role located in Ocean Springs, MS.*

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support and coordinate assigned product development projects from initial concept through production and market launch.
• Develop and maintain project timelines, task list, and next steps for assigned products.
• Coordinate with internal departments to collect the product, pricing, packaging, operational, sales, and marketing information required to move projects forward.
• Coordinate with external domestic and international suppliers to collect quotes, samples, specifications, and other supplier information.
• Work with product engineers, machine shop, 3D modeling resources, suppliers, and other partners to support prototype development and revisions.
• Maintain an organized sample library and accurate records of sample revisions, feedback, approvals, and status.
• Track supplier deliverables and follow up regularly to ensure samples, quotations, revisions, packaging, and production related information are received on time.
• Collect and organize product names, item numbers, descriptions, features, specifications, dimensions, materials, packaging details, costs, pricing, case packs, UPC information, and other required data.
• Assist in preparing and updating new product presentations for internal review, sales meetings, customers, and retail presentations.
• Prepare, organize, and ship product samples for photography. Communicate required images and angles, track completion, and properly organize final product images in our system.
• Provide day-to-day assistance to company leadership and Sr. Product Development Specialist on assigned projects and priorities.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Remain highly organized and attentive to details while managing multiple projects at different stages of development.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate project information.
• Strong problem-solving skills and willingness to take initiative.
• Ability to learn new products, processes, systems, and terminology quickly.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials selections, and product testing.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, product development, project management, or a related field preferred, but not required.
• Familiarity with the fishing industry and its trends, specifically around bait and tackle products.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.