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Product Development Associate information

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$13

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$49

How much do product development associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for product development associate in Madison, WI is $30.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.75 and $38.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate product developer?

An associate product developer is an entry-level or junior professional involved in supporting the development of new products or features. They assist with tasks such as research, prototyping, testing, and collaborating with cross-functional teams, often using tools like CAD software or project management systems. This role typically requires strong communication skills and a basic understanding of product design and development processes.

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 7 stages of product development?

The 7 stages of product development typically include idea generation, idea screening, concept development and testing, business analysis, product design and development, market testing, and commercialization. As a Product Development Associate, understanding these stages helps in managing projects efficiently and ensuring successful product launches.

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 much do product developers get paid?

Product development associates typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those in high-demand sectors can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with benefits and bonuses.

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 Madison, WI? The most popular types of Product Development jobs in Madison, WI are:
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What job categories do people searching Product Development Associate jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Product Development Associate jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Product Development Associate jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Product Development Associate job openings:
Product Development Associate jobs near you
Associate Manager, New Product Development

Associate Manager, New Product Development

Spectrum Brands

Middleton, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Spectrum Brands rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Division Information
Spectrum Brands' Home & Personal Care (HPC) Appliances business participates on a global basis in small electric appliances, shave/groom appliances and beauty appliances. Our well- known brands include George Foreman®, Black+Decker®, Farberware®, Breadman®, Juiceman®, Russell Hobbs® and Remington®. Our products appeal to consumer trends for healthy eating, stay-at-home cooking, creating today's new hair style and much more. We distinguish our product offerings from the competition by employing forward thinking, innovative technologies matched with a strong understanding of consumer needs to bring to market high quality, superior products that delight the end user.
Job Summary
The Associate, New Product Development (NPD) supports product planning and development activities for assigned product segments or categories.
This role leads assigned projects and executes defined workstreams within the Stage-Gate process, contributing to product development from ideation through commercialization. The Associate supports product definition, cross-functional coordination, and execution of development activities to ensure projects meet quality, cost, and schedule objectives.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
Product Strategy & Planning
  • Supports development of product roadmaps and category initiatives
  • Assists in gathering and organizing consumer insights, competitive benchmarking, and product data
  • Contributes to product definition activities, including features, specifications, and supporting documentation

Product Development Execution
  • Leads projects through the Stage-Gate process, ensuring execution against defined scope, cost, schedule, and performance targets.
  • Supports development of product requirements, specifications, and validation plans.
  • Assists with prototype evaluation, product testing, and performance validation activities.
  • Supports cross-functional alignment and follows up on milestones and deliverables.

Cross-Functional Coordination & Communication
  • Coordinates with R&D, Industrial Design, Sourcing, Quality, and Marketing to support project execution.
  • Supports preparation for gate reviews, presentations, and cross-functional meetings.
  • Communicates project status and escalates risks or issues as needed.

Continuous Improvement & Execution
  • Supports improvements to NPD processes, tools, and documentation.
  • Maintains accurate documentation and project records.
  • Contributes to improving execution efficiency across projects.
  • Identifies and mitigates technical, supply, cost, and regulatory risks.

Other
  • Travel 1-2 times per year internationally for project collaboration and product trend evaluation.

Education and Experience Profile
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field required.
  • 2-5 years of experience in product development, engineering, or related roles.
  • Exposure to consumer products or retail-driven environments preferred.
  • Familiarity with Stage-Gate or structured product development processes.

Required Skills
  • Basic understanding of product development processes and cross-functional workflows.
  • Ability to lead smaller scope projects and execute assigned tasks with accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Strong technical aptitude and ability to support testing and product evaluation.
  • Ability to gather, analyze, and summarize technical and business data.
  • Structured problem-solving approach with ability to identify issues and escalate appropriately.
  • Ability to work effectively within cross-functional teams.
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills.
  • Willingness to learn, take direction, and incorporate feedback.
  • Proficient with 3D modelling software (Solidworks or Fusion preferred).

Work Environment
Working conditions are normal for an office environment.

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