Development Associate Jobs in Apple Valley, MN (NOW HIRING)

Company Overview:
We’re a mid-sized medical device contract manufacturer, which means you get the best of both worlds: meaningful work in a regulated environment without the layers of bureaucracy you’ll find at larger organizations. 

Here, your ideas don’t get lost in an approval chain. Team members are encouraged to provide feedback, share suggestions, and directly see the impact of their work on processes, products, and outcomes. What you contribute matters, and you can see it come to life. 

Because we’re still growing and evolving, we don’t have overly rigid structures for everything, which creates a strong opportunity for individuals who enjoy building, improving, and solving problems. If you’re someone who is comfortable rolling up your sleeves, taking ownership, and helping shape how things are done, you’ll thrive here. 

We do best with people who are curious, hands-on, and motivated to learn and grow. In return, you’ll gain exposure across functions, develop new skills quickly, and have a direct role in improving how we operate. 

Position Summary:
We are seeking a Product Development Associate to join our team. This position plays a pivotal role in our success and growth by quoting and onboarding new contract cut and sew and RF welding customers. This role collaborates with a team of manufacturing professionals to build high quality products with pride in the USA.  

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop customer quote packages, bills of materials (BOMs), product specifications, work instructions, and standardized manufacturing processes for new products

• Serve as a primary point of contact during product development, maintaining professional and timely communication with customers throughout the quoting, development, sampling, and production readiness process

• Conduct preliminary cost analyses and feasibility assessments using customer pricing targets, labor estimates, material costs, and manufacturing requirements

• Build and evaluate prototypes and samples, collect cycle-time data, and assess product designs for manufacturability, quality, efficiency, and cost optimization

• Coordinate and support New Product Introduction (NPI) activities, ensuring accurate and timely transfer of product requirements, specifications, and manufacturing documentation to production and support teams

• Assist in developing and delivering training for new products, processes, and manufacturing methods to production and overhead staff

• Manage multiple product development, quoting, and implementation projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks and driving progress to meet established timelines and customer expectations

• Create, modify, and maintain digital pattern files, technical drawings, and product documentation using applicable CAD and design software

• Support the evaluation, implementation, and onboarding of new technologies, materials, equipment, and manufacturing capabilities to expand contract manufacturing opportunities

• Maintain accurate project records, development timelines, status reports, and technical documentation; regularly communicate project updates, risks, and strategic recommendations to leadership and cross-functional teams

• Develop and maintain standardized workflows, process documentation, and manufacturing instructions to support successful product launches and production scalability

• Collaborate with Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, and Business Development teams to ensure new products meet customer requirements, quality standards, and operational objectives

• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on product design, manufacturing efficiency, quality, and cost reduction

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Product Development, Textile Technology, Manufacturing, or a related field preferred; equivalent combination of education and relevant experience will be considered.

• 2 years of soft goods production design and/or manufacturing engineering experience.

• Knowledge of textile materials, sewing construction methods, and manufacturing processes used in the development and production of soft goods and sewn products.

• Working knowledge of CAD, pattern design, or technical drawing software.

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook 

• Experience utilizing ERP/MRP systems to manage bills of materials, part numbers, inventory, and product changes.

• Ability to analyze product and manufacturing data to support product development, validation, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Compensation: 

Caerus Corp provides the following information about compensation for this position: 

Salary Range: $60,000.00 – $72,000.00 per year. 

Benefits: 

• Health, dental, vision, basic life, and AD&D insurance 

• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match 

• Paid time off (Vacation and Protected paid time) and 6 company designated holidays 

• Tuition Assistance Program 

• Employee Brace Program  

The salary range is based on several factors which will vary based on position.  These include labor markets and, in some instances, may include but not limited to education, work experience, scope and responsibilities of position and geographic location.  

Employment Eligibility / E-Verify: 

Caerus Corp participates in the federal E-Verify program to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Employment eligibility will be verified after hire through completion of Form I-9 and the E-Verify process, as required by law. 

Equal Opportunity Employer: 

Caerus Corp is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. 

Reasonable Accommodation 

The Company is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you require assistance or accommodation during the application process, please contact talentaquisition@caeruscorp.com.  

Caerus Corp., headquartered in Blaine, MN is a developer, manufacturer, and marketer of innovative medical devices and soft goods.  Our brands include: OrthoCor Medical, Red Fox Innovations and New Options Sports.