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Product Development Associate Jobs in Encinitas, CA

ACON Laboratories

Associate Product Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$63K - $68K/yr

We are looking for an Associate Product Manager that will assists with planning and organizing ... Participate in the development of product specification documents that detail revisions of existing ...

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Product Development Associate information

See Encinitas, CA salary details

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$52

How much do product development associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for product development associate in Encinitas, CA is $32.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.29 and $40.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

Is product development a good career?

Product development is a viable career that involves designing, creating, and improving products, often requiring skills in project management, market research, and technical knowledge. It offers opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and growth in various industries, with roles typically requiring cross-functional teamwork and problem-solving abilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Product Development jobs in Encinitas, CA?

The most popular types of Product Development jobs in Encinitas, CA are:

What cities near Encinitas, CA are hiring for Product Development Associate jobs?

Cities near Encinitas, CA with the most Product Development Associate job openings:

Product Development Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Product Development Associate job openings in Encinitas, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,131 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Associate Product Development Specialist

Upper Deck

Carlsbad, CA • On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Associate Product Development Specialist

Full Time Carlsbad, CA, US

Salary: $70,500.00 Annually

SUMMARY Overview of the position

Would you like to combine your passion for sports and entertainment with a fast-paced job in the trading card industry? The Associate Product Development Specialist role is ideal for a creative, detail-oriented individual with passion and experience in the trading card industry. The Associate Product Development Specialist will work under the Upper Deck Collectibles (UDC) division of the company. Primary responsibilities include the creation of unique, innovative products in line with the company’s overall sales and profit goals for wholesale, retail, direct, and hobby distribution channels. The Associate Product Development Specialist will oversee/manage the production cycle from the beginning conceptualization phase to eventual public release of said product. Other responsibilities include the preparation and presentation of business and product strategies and financial cost reports, to ensure they simultaneously meet company and consumer expectations for both profits and content. For anyone out there that has ever wanted to build a trading card product and work for one of the major manufacturers in the hobby, this job is for you!


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESThe following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by an individual assigned to this job. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Product Development : In conjunction with internal and external parties, plays a central role in the management of the development of products in line with the company’s strategic initiatives; meeting legal, financial and design requirements and delivering consistent quality and safety standards. Responsible to closely monitoring trading card industry trends to master the understanding of value drivers, including consistent communication with outside consultants. Works directly with Finance team to compose and edit financial costing documents. Responsible to draft and edit Strategic Brief documents for each product – providing detail for the specific vision and themes for all subsets and cards. Provides initial directions on layout and art design.
  • Product Determination and Selection : Assists in the development of categories and products commensurate with strategies specified in licensed product portfolio strategies and business plans. Assists in providing input on reliable and cost-effective sources within established development process.
  • Licensed Property Product Portfolio Management : Assists Director of Product Development in providing product portfolio management of licensed properties. Works with Executive Team, Sales, and Legal to support selection and evaluation of prospective sport-focused licenses. Anticipates, identifies, and capitalizes on sports card market industry trends.
  • Collectibles Content Sourcing : Assists Coordinator group in market research and procurement efforts for vintage collectibles to be used as elements within select trading card lines.
  • Quality Control/Ethics : Assists in the determination and communication of product quality standards. Monitors quality and manufacturing standards, ensuring adherence to Code of Conduct. Works closely with Operations to minimize manufacturing errors and delivery slippage.
  • Marketing, Advertising, Promotion, and Solicitation Activity : Provides input into Marketing/Advertising/PR campaigns in line with corporate strategies and initiatives or other activities as designated. Attends regional Sales and Distributor meetings and Trade Shows to communicate product plans and strategies.
  • Systems and Administration : Monitors cost of goods and inventory levels for collectibles content and raw materials. Review all SKU’s on a planned schedule, works closely with Finance when new orders are due to prepare preliminary data and review profit and loss statements.
  • Communication : Responsible for keeping the Company up to date with ranging developments. Liaison with other departments. Supports Brand team in recommending, communicating and coordinating launch strategies and calendars, license acquisitions, product promotions, sales, etc.

INTERACTION

This position will interact closely with the Upper Deck Company Director of Product Development, the Collectibles team, Brand, Product Development Coordinators, Finance, Operations, Design, Sales and Senior Management along with related company staff members and external parties. Interfaces regularly with upper management to provide reports on departmental performance, challenges, and anticipated needs

EDUCATION/YEARS EXPERIENCE

  • 2+ years of experience in collecting modern trading cards (sports and/or entertainment).
  • Bachelor’s Degree with an emphasis in Marketing, Product Development and Design or a closely related field or equivalent experience is preferred.

REQUIREMENTS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Strong understanding of the modern trading card market (sports and/or entertainment) is required.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple, high priority projects
  • Exceptional ability for attention to details – particularly with manipulating Excel spreadsheets.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Superior interpersonal, leadership, negotiating, consulting, presentation, analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Strong background in the management of direct and departmental reports and internal/external teams.
  • Ability to interface with internal and external parties.
  • Ability to perform duties under minimal supervision while exercising discretion and independent judgment.
  • Hands on, energetic and motivated self-starter.
  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally on behalf of the Company.
  • Proficiency in the following software or systems: MS Office (advanced expertise with Excel is preferable).
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