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Product Development Associate Jobs in California

Product Development Associate role will work to support the Product Development Team in managing and tracking the development of seasonal products for all categories. As a Product Development team ...

Product Development Associate role will work to support the Product Development Team in managing and tracking the development of seasonal products for all categories. As a Product Development team ...

The Associate Product Developer supports the product development process from concept through production, partnering closely with Design, Technical Design, Product Development, and external vendors ...

The Associate Product Developer supports the product development process from concept through production, partnering closely with Design, Technical Design, Product Development, and external vendors ...

The Associate Product Developer supports the product development process from concept through production, partnering closely with Design, Technical Design, Product Development, and external vendors ...

Associate Product Development Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$122K - $152K/yr

ASSOCIATE PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER REPORTS TO: PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER STATUS: EXEMPT Summary Boot Barn is where community comes first. We thrive on togetherness, collaboration, and belonging.

ASSOCIATE PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER REPORTS TO: PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER STATUS: EXEMPT Summary Boot Barn is where community comes first. We thrive on togetherness, collaboration, and belonging.

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Showing results 1-20

Product Development Associate information

See California salary details

$13

$30

$48

How much do product development associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for product development associate in California is $30.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.27 and $37.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Product Development Associate typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the product lifecycle?

As a Product Development Associate, you’ll work closely with departments such as marketing, engineering, and manufacturing throughout the product lifecycle. You’ll help translate customer feedback and market trends into product requirements, coordinate with designers and engineers to ensure feasibility, and assist in managing timelines and deliverables. Regular meetings and clear communication are vital, as you’ll often serve as a liaison to ensure everyone is aligned on goals and progress. This collaborative environment not only strengthens your teamwork skills but also provides valuable exposure to various aspects of the business.

What is the difference between Product Development Associate vs Product Manager?

AspectProduct Development AssociateProduct Manager
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in business, marketing, or related field; some roles may require internships or entry-level experienceBachelor's degree often required; MBA or relevant certifications preferred; extensive experience in product lifecycle management
Work EnvironmentCollaborative teams within product development, R&D, or marketing departmentsCross-functional teams including engineering, marketing, sales, and executive leadership
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech, manufacturing, and consumer goods companies for entry to mid-level rolesUsed across industries for strategic product oversight and lifecycle management

The Product Development Associate focuses on supporting the creation and refinement of products, often handling research, testing, and coordination tasks. In contrast, the Product Manager oversees the entire product lifecycle, making strategic decisions and managing cross-functional teams. While both roles require a background in business or related fields, the Product Manager role typically demands more experience and leadership responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Product Development Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Product Development Associate, you need strong analytical abilities, project management skills, and a relevant bachelor's degree (such as in business, engineering, or marketing). Familiarity with product lifecycle management (PLM) software, data analysis tools, and prototyping platforms is commonly required. Creativity, teamwork, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for efficiently bringing innovative products to market and collaborating successfully with cross-functional teams.

What does a Product Development Associate do?

A Product Development Associate supports the creation and improvement of new products within a company. They conduct market research, assist in designing product concepts, coordinate with cross-functional teams, and help manage the product development process from idea to launch. Their role often includes analyzing customer needs, monitoring trends, and ensuring products meet quality standards. This position is collaborative and requires strong organizational and communication skills.
What are the most commonly searched types of Product Development jobs in California? The most popular types of Product Development jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Product Development Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Product Development Associate job openings:

Product Development Associate

Whimsocal Studios

Irvine, CA • On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Company Description Whimsocal Studios, formerly known as Orange Circle Studio, is a design-driven company focused on making everyday moments feel special through beautiful, art-centric consumer products. Since 2009, the studio has built a portfolio of purpose-led brands across stationery, gifting, lifestyle, and baby categories. Its family of brands includes Orange Circle Studio, Saturday Sundae, Studio Oh!, Bella Tunno, JuJuBe Intl., and SCOOPS. The company emphasizes creativity, meaning, and a touch of Southern California inspiration in everything it produces, aiming to bring joy and intentionality into daily routines.

Position Overview:

The Product Development Associate is an entry-level role supporting the New Product Development team in the day-to-day execution of new product development across Whimsocal’s brand portfolio. This position focuses on organizing and maintaining product specifications, coordinating information between internal departments, and supporting communication with overseas factories on minor revisions. The role is designed as a foundational learning position, giving the Associate hands-on exposure to product construction, materials, costing, and the full development workflow before advancing into more creative and concept-driven responsibilities. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, eager to learn, and able to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced consumer-products environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Spec Sheet & Product Data Management:

Create, organize, and maintain accurate product spec sheets across active development lines

Ensure all product data, dimensions, materials, and construction details are complete and up to date

Maintain organized files and version control for specifications, artwork, and development documentation

Compile and format product information templates for system upload


Cross-Functional Coordination:

Gather product details and upload specifications for Editorial, Design, and Coordinators

Communicate with internal departments to confirm accurate product information and resolve missing data

Support the item setup process by consolidating data required for system entry

Track development timelines and flag outstanding items to keep projects on schedule


Factory Communication & Revisions:

Coordinate minor product revisions and corrections with overseas factories under team direction

Relay spec changes, sample feedback, and construction adjustments clearly and accurately

Track sample requests, revision status, and factory responses through to completion

Follow up to ensure factories deliver updated samples and documentation within required timelines


Samples & Development Support:

Organize, label, and track incoming development samples

Prepare and route samples for internal review and approvals

Maintain the sample library and ensure samples are properly cataloged

Support the Product Development team with additional projects and administrative tasks as assigned

Skills and Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent work experience

0–2 years of experience; internship or coursework in product development, design, merchandising, or a related field is a plus

Strong organizational skills with high attention to detail and accuracy

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment

Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel and Outlook

Eagerness to learn product construction, materials, and the development process

Interest in gift, stationery, or consumer products a plus

ERP experience (SAP) a plus

Key Competencies:

Attention to Detail

Organization and Prioritization

Learning Agility

Cross-Functional Communication

Follow-Through and Reliability

Adaptability

Team Collaboration

Compensation:
  • $21.00 – $23.00 per hour, depending on experience, with the opportunity to grow into the Product Development Coordinator level. This is a full-time, non-exempt (hourly, overtime-eligible) position. Whimsocal offers a comprehensive benefits package.