This role serves as the critical link between Merchandising, Design, Sourcing, and Operations, ensuring products are developed with manufacturability, quality, efficiency, and profitability in mind.
This role serves as the critical link between Merchandising, Design, Sourcing, and Operations, ensuring products are developed with manufacturability, quality, efficiency, and profitability in mind.
This role serves as the critical link between Merchandising, Design, Sourcing, and Operations, ensuring products are developed with manufacturability, quality, efficiency, and profitability in mind.
This role serves as the critical link between Merchandising, Design, Sourcing, and Operations, ensuring products are developed with manufacturability, quality, efficiency, and profitability in mind.
This role serves as the critical link between Merchandising, Design, Sourcing, and Operations, ensuring products are developed with manufacturability, quality, efficiency, and profitability in mind.
This role serves as the critical link between Merchandising, Design, Sourcing, and Operations, ensuring products are developed with manufacturability, quality, efficiency, and profitability in mind.
This role serves as the critical link between Merchandising, Design, Sourcing, and Operations, ensuring products are developed with manufacturability, quality, efficiency, and profitability in mind.
This role serves as the critical link between Merchandising, Design, Sourcing, and Operations, ensuring products are developed with manufacturability, quality, efficiency, and profitability in mind.
This role serves as the critical link between Merchandising, Design, Sourcing, and Operations, ensuring products are developed with manufacturability, quality, efficiency, and profitability in mind.
This role serves as the critical link between Merchandising, Design, Sourcing, and Operations, ensuring products are developed with manufacturability, quality, efficiency, and profitability in mind.
Sr Merchandiser
Des Plaines, IL · On-site
$80K - $90K/yr
Lead seasonal product development from concept through adoption, ensuring alignment across design intent, consumer need, and business objectives * Drive continuous improvement of merchandising ...
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Sr Merchandiser
Des Plaines, IL · On-site
$80K - $90K/yr
Lead seasonal product development from concept through adoption, ensuring alignment across design intent, consumer need, and business objectives * Drive continuous improvement of merchandising ...
Footwear Product Developer
Chicago, IL · On-site
... product development process from concept to production. The role involves collaborating with design, merchandising, production, and overseas factories to deliver high-quality footwear on time and ...
Footwear Product Developer
Chicago, IL · On-site
... product development process from concept to production. The role involves collaborating with design, merchandising, production, and overseas factories to deliver high-quality footwear on time and ...
Sr. Product Manager
Chicago, IL · On-site
$130K - $172K/yr
Senior Product Manager, Product Development Location: Southwest Chicago | Full-Time | Hybrid Korn ... Oversee packaging, testing, certifications, and merchandising deployment * Partner with legal on ...
Sr. Product Manager
Chicago, IL · On-site
$130K - $172K/yr
Senior Product Manager, Product Development Location: Southwest Chicago | Full-Time | Hybrid Korn ... Oversee packaging, testing, certifications, and merchandising deployment * Partner with legal on ...
The Merchandising Admin Assistant Intern for the Miles Hard Goods Division plays a vital supportive ... Product Creation & Development: Support the lifecycle of product development by organizing design ...
The Merchandising Admin Assistant Intern for the Miles Hard Goods Division plays a vital supportive ... Product Creation & Development: Support the lifecycle of product development by organizing design ...
The Merchandising Admin Assistant Intern for the Miles Hard Goods Division plays a vital supportive ... Product Creation & Development: Support the lifecycle of product development by organizing design ...
The Merchandising Admin Assistant Intern for the Miles Hard Goods Division plays a vital supportive ... Product Creation & Development: Support the lifecycle of product development by organizing design ...
Serve as liaison between Merchandising and Creative in the new product selection process. * Maintain open, efficient communication between various departments on new and existing product development ...
Serve as liaison between Merchandising and Creative in the new product selection process. * Maintain open, efficient communication between various departments on new and existing product development ...
Serve as liaison between Merchandising and Creative in the new product selection process. * Maintain open, efficient communication between various departments on new and existing product development ...
Serve as liaison between Merchandising and Creative in the new product selection process. * Maintain open, efficient communication between various departments on new and existing product development ...
Product Designer
Oak Brook, IL · On-site
$55K - $65K/yr
They are responsible for the development of product from ideation and concept rendering to ... Work closely with Designers, Merchandising, Sourcing, Packaging, and Graphics teams to help bring ...
New
Product Designer
Oak Brook, IL · On-site
$55K - $65K/yr
They are responsible for the development of product from ideation and concept rendering to ... Work closely with Designers, Merchandising, Sourcing, Packaging, and Graphics teams to help bring ...
New
Associate Apparel Product Manager
Deerfield, IL · On-site
$75K - $95K/yr
Bachelor's degree in Apparel Design, Apparel Merchandising, Product Development, or a related field. * 2-4 years of experience in apparel product management or a related role. * Strong knowledge of ...
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Associate Apparel Product Manager
Deerfield, IL · On-site
$75K - $95K/yr
Bachelor's degree in Apparel Design, Apparel Merchandising, Product Development, or a related field. * 2-4 years of experience in apparel product management or a related role. * Strong knowledge of ...
Associate Apparel Product Manager
Bannockburn, IL · On-site
$75K - $95K/yr
Bachelor's degree in Apparel Design, Apparel Merchandising, Product Development, or a related field. * 2-4 years of experience in apparel product management or a related role. * Strong knowledge of ...
Associate Apparel Product Manager
Bannockburn, IL · On-site
$75K - $95K/yr
Bachelor's degree in Apparel Design, Apparel Merchandising, Product Development, or a related field. * 2-4 years of experience in apparel product management or a related role. * Strong knowledge of ...
Product Designer
Chicago, IL · On-site
$55K - $65K/yr
They are responsible for the development of product from ideation and concept rendering to ... Work closely with Designers, Merchandising, Sourcing, Packaging, and Graphics teams to help bring ...
Product Designer
Chicago, IL · On-site
$55K - $65K/yr
They are responsible for the development of product from ideation and concept rendering to ... Work closely with Designers, Merchandising, Sourcing, Packaging, and Graphics teams to help bring ...
Work closely with Design, Merchandising, Production, Sales, and Planning throughout the product lifecycle. * Ensure product information, specifications, and development status remain accurate within ...
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Work closely with Design, Merchandising, Production, Sales, and Planning throughout the product lifecycle. * Ensure product information, specifications, and development status remain accurate within ...
Product Designer
Chicago, IL · On-site
$55K - $65K/yr
They are responsible for the development of product from ideation and concept rendering to ... Work closely with Designers, Merchandising, Sourcing, Packaging, and Graphics teams to help bring ...
Product Designer
Chicago, IL · On-site
$55K - $65K/yr
They are responsible for the development of product from ideation and concept rendering to ... Work closely with Designers, Merchandising, Sourcing, Packaging, and Graphics teams to help bring ...
Footwear Product Developer
Chicago, IL · On-site
$100K - $130K/yr
Work closely with Design, Merchandising, Production, Sales, and Planning throughout the product lifecycle. * Ensure product information, specifications, and development status remain accurate within ...
Footwear Product Developer
Chicago, IL · On-site
$100K - $130K/yr
Work closely with Design, Merchandising, Production, Sales, and Planning throughout the product lifecycle. * Ensure product information, specifications, and development status remain accurate within ...
Associate Business Manager, Own Brands
Chicago, IL · On-site
$54K - $68K/yr
Supports specific private label products &/or categories through analysis & development of marketing plans; product promotions; advertising; in-store displays; merchandising strategies; inventory ...
Associate Business Manager, Own Brands
Chicago, IL · On-site
$54K - $68K/yr
Supports specific private label products &/or categories through analysis & development of marketing plans; product promotions; advertising; in-store displays; merchandising strategies; inventory ...
Product Development Merchandiser information
See Chicago, IL salary details
$17.33 - $20.94
10% of jobs
$21.74 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$20.94 - $24.54
66% of jobs
$24.54 - $28.14
7% of jobs
$28.14 - $31.74
2% of jobs
$31.74 - $35.34
1% of jobs
$35.34 - $38.95
6% of jobs
$38.95 - $42.55
0% of jobs
$42.55 - $46.15
0% of jobs
$46.15 - $49.75
0% of jobs
$49.75 - $53.35
0% of jobs
$53.35 - $56.96
7% of jobs
$17
$29
$56
How much do product development merchandiser jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for product development merchandiser in Chicago, IL is $29.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.75 and $27.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a product development merchandiser?
Product Development Merchandisers are professionals who bridge the gap between design, production, and merchandising teams to develop new products that meet market trends and consumer needs. They are responsible for overseeing the conceptualization, sampling, and finalization of products, ensuring that designs are both marketable and feasible for production. Their role involves analyzing market trends, collaborating with designers and suppliers, managing timelines, and ensuring product quality and profitability. This position is essential in bringing successful products to market and aligning them with a brand’s objectives.
Is product development merchandiser a good job?
Product development merchandisers play a key role in creating and sourcing new products, requiring skills in market research, trend analysis, and supplier coordination. The job often involves collaboration with design, marketing, and production teams and can offer opportunities for career growth in the retail and fashion industries. Compensation and job satisfaction vary based on experience, company size, and location.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a product development merchandiser?
To thrive as a Product Development Merchandiser, you need a solid understanding of product design, trend analysis, merchandising principles, and supply chain processes, typically supported by a degree in fashion, merchandising, or a related field. Familiarity with PLM systems, Adobe Creative Suite, and data analysis tools is commonly required. Strong communication, project management, and negotiation skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and vendors effectively. These abilities are crucial for developing market-driven products that align with business goals and ensure successful product launches.
What is the difference between Product Development Merchandiser vs Product Designer?
| Aspect | Product Development Merchandiser | Product Designer |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Managing product lines, sourcing, and ensuring market readiness | Creating and designing product concepts and visuals |
| Skills & Credentials | Merchandising, supply chain knowledge, market analysis | Design skills, CAD proficiency, creative portfolio |
| Work Environment | Retail, fashion, or consumer goods companies | Design studios, fashion houses, or product firms |
| Industry Usage | Common in apparel, accessories, and consumer goods | Common in fashion, product design, and industrial design |
While both roles involve product development, the Product Development Merchandiser focuses on managing product lines, sourcing, and market readiness, whereas the Product Designer emphasizes creating the visual and functional aspects of products. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations in the industry.
What is product development and merchandising?
A Product Development Merchandiser is responsible for creating and sourcing new products, working closely with design, production, and marketing teams to ensure products meet market needs. Merchandising involves selecting, pricing, and presenting products effectively to maximize sales and appeal to target customers. Both roles require strong organizational skills and knowledge of industry trends and consumer preferences.
How does a product development merchandiser typically collaborate with design and sourcing teams throughout the product lifecycle?
A Product Development Merchandiser works closely with both design and sourcing teams from concept to final production. They facilitate communication by translating design concepts into actionable product specifications and ensuring that sourcing partners understand material, quality, and cost requirements. Regular meetings, sample reviews, and timeline management are key aspects of this collaboration, helping to balance creative vision with commercial viability and supply chain constraints. This cross-functional teamwork is essential for bringing products to market efficiently and successfully.
What are popular job titles related to Product Development Merchandiser jobs in Chicago, IL? For Product Development Merchandiser jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Product Development Merchandiser jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Product Development Merchandiser jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Full-time
Posted 25 days ago
Job description
About the Role
We are seeking a highly strategic and technically skilled Sr. Manager, Product Development to lead the transformation of product concepts into scalable, production-ready solutions within our personalization ecosystem. This role serves as the critical link between Merchandising, Design, Sourcing, and Operations, ensuring products are developed with manufacturability, quality, efficiency, and profitability in mind.
As a key leader in a vendor-led development environment, you will oversee product feasibility, technical validation, specification development, vendor collaboration, and production readiness. The ideal candidate combines strong product development expertise with a deep understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, and personalization techniques to bring innovative products to market successfully.NOTE: This is a "physical" product development role (i.e., mugs, keepsakes, accessories), NOT digital/software.
What You'll DoProduct Feasibility & Technical Validation- Evaluate product concepts for manufacturability, scalability, and margin potential.
- Identify and mitigate risks related to materials, construction methods, and personalization techniques.
- Serve as the technical gatekeeper, ensuring products meet business and operational requirements before production.
- Partner with cross-functional teams to balance customer experience, design intent, and production realities.
- Translate design concepts into comprehensive production-ready specifications.
- Develop and maintain:
- Technical packs (Tech Packs)
- Material and component specifications
- Personalization standards and rules
- Artwork and file setup guidelines
- Ensure all product documentation is accurate, organized, and consistently maintained.
- Partner closely with Sourcing to assess and select vendor capabilities.
- Review prototypes, samples, and product development milestones.
- Provide technical feedback and lead product iteration cycles.
- Validate vendor readiness to consistently execute personalization requirements and quality standards.
- Oversee the sample development, review, and approval process.
- Drive timely issue resolution throughout product development.
- Evaluate prototypes for quality, functionality, and production readiness.
- Ensure products meet brand standards before commercialization.
- Ensure all products are fully production-ready prior to launch.
- Establish and maintain quality assurance standards across product categories.
- Monitor post-launch product performance and identify improvement opportunities.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, cost efficiency, and operational excellence.
- 7-10+ years of experience in Product Development, Technical Design or a related field.
- Proven experience managing product development processes and external vendor relationships.
- Strong understanding of materials, construction methods, manufacturing processes, and production workflows.
- Demonstrated ability to assess product feasibility, identify risks, and develop scalable solutions.
- Exceptional problem-solving, project management, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders across multiple functions.