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Apparel Product Development Manager Jobs in California

The ideal candidate will have a proven product development track record in the apparel industry ... Manage the product creation process from design hand off to production approval * Establish and ...

Product Development Manager

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

The ideal candidate will have a proven product development track record in the apparel industry ... Manage the product creation process from design hand off to production approval * Establish and ...

Product Development Manager

Vista, CA ยท On-site

$130K - $145K/yr

The Product Development Manager will be charged to lead product formulation and product operational readiness to ramp up and launch new products on time, with a high level of quality and maximum ...

Apparel Product Manager

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Overview Road Runner Sports is looking for an Apparel Product Manager to join our Merchandising ... Experience in private label or branded product development from concept through delivery is a ...

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Apparel Product Development Manager information

See California salary details

$41.9K

$125.3K

$142.6K

How much do apparel product development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for apparel product development manager in California is $125,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $113,000.00 and $141,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an apparel product development manager do?

An Apparel Product Development Manager oversees the design, development, and production of clothing products from concept to final manufacturing. They collaborate with designers, sourcing teams, and manufacturers to ensure that garments meet quality, cost, and timeline requirements. Their role involves fabric selection, prototyping, fit testing, and ensuring products align with brand standards and market trends. Additionally, they manage communication between teams to streamline the development process and resolve production challenges.

What are some of the main challenges faced by an apparel product development manager in their day-to-day work?

Apparel Product Development Managers often navigate challenges such as balancing creative design vision with manufacturing feasibility, managing tight timelines, and coordinating with multiple stakeholders including designers, suppliers, and production teams. Ensuring product quality and cost-effectiveness while meeting ever-changing market trends can also be demanding. A key part of the job involves troubleshooting unexpected issues in prototyping or production and adapting quickly to changes in materials, sourcing, or consumer demands. Success in this role relies on strong organization, clear communication, and the ability to maintain focus under pressure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apparel product development manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apparel Product Development Manager, you need strong knowledge of textiles, garment construction, and the product development lifecycle, typically backed by a degree in fashion, textiles, or a related field. Familiarity with PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems, Adobe Illustrator, and sometimes certifications in project management or supply chain operations are highly beneficial. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills set top candidates apart, enabling them to manage cross-functional teams and vendor relationships. These competencies are essential for efficiently bringing apparel concepts to market while meeting quality, cost, and timeline objectives.

What are the most commonly searched types of Apparel Product Development jobs in California?

The most popular types of Apparel Product Development jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Apparel Product Development Manager jobs in California?

For Apparel Product Development Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Apparel Product Development Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Apparel Product Development Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Apparel Product Development Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,325 per year, or $60.3 per hour.

Apparel Product Development

Vector Apparel Projects Inc

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

About the Role:
Vector Apparel Projects Inc is looking for a passionate and detail-driven Apparel Product Development professional to join their team in Los Angeles, CA. This is an exciting opportunity to bring innovative apparel concepts to life from ideation through production in one of the fashion industry's most dynamic cities. If you thrive in a fast-paced creative environment and love turning ideas into wearable products, we want to hear from you!

Responsibilities:
  • Manage end-to-end product development lifecycle from concept to PP samples for 15-20 clients 
  • Collaborate with pattern makers, sample cutter/sewers, trim buyer, fabric mills, to ensure on-time deliveries
  • Develop and maintain tech packs, BOMs, and construction specifications
  • Research and source fabrics, trims, and materials aligned with brand aesthetic and cost targets
  • Participate in fit sessions and provide detailed garment construction feedback
  • Track and manage development calendars, sample milestones, and critical path timelines
  • Responsible for fit, SMS and photo sample schedules  
  • Work with pattern department to ensure estimated yields are accurate.
  • Work closely with costing department to ensure all cost sheets are accurate. 
  • Work closely with production department to ensure seamless handoff 
Requirements:
  • 3+ years of experience in apparel product development, technical design, or a related role
  • Proficiency in creating and managing tech packs and garment specifications
  • Strong understanding of garment construction, fit, and manufacturing processes
  • Experience working with domestic suppliers and factories
  • Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
  • Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, ERP software (Aims360 and Smartsheet experience is a plus)
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with a collaborative, solutions-oriented mindset
About Us:
Vector Apparel Projects Inc is a Los Angeles-based apparel company dedicated to delivering high-quality, thoughtfully developed clothing that resonates with today's consumer. Our team is built on creativity, collaboration, and a deep passion for the craft of apparel — from the first sketch to the final stitch. We pride ourselves on fostering a culture where talented individuals can grow, innovate, and make a real impact on the products we bring to marke