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Soft Tech information

See Indiana salary details

$9

$27

$63

How much do soft tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for soft tech in Indiana is $27.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.87 and $34.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Soft Tech vs Software Developer?

AspectSoft TechSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in IT, computer science, or related fields; certifications like CompTIA or Cisco are commonUsually a degree in computer science or software engineering; certifications like Microsoft, AWS, or programming-specific certificates are valued
Work EnvironmentOften in IT support, network management, or technical consulting roles; may involve on-site or remote workPrimarily in software development teams; work can be remote or on-site, focused on coding and application design
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across IT services, tech support, and consulting firmsCommon in software companies, tech startups, and development agencies

While both roles involve technical skills, Soft Tech generally focuses on IT support, network management, and technical consulting, whereas Software Developers primarily design, code, and test software applications. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and career goals.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Soft Tech roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Soft Tech roles often encounter the challenge of rapidly evolving technologies and the need to continuously update their skills. Adapting to new software tools, frameworks, and methodologies requires ongoing learning and flexibility. Additionally, balancing technical work with effective communication among cross-functional teams can be demanding. Staying proactive about professional development and actively participating in collaborative projects can help address these challenges and contribute to career progression.

What are Soft Tech jobs?

Soft Tech jobs refer to roles that focus on the development, implementation, and support of software technologies. These positions can include software engineers, developers, testers, project managers, and IT support specialists who work on designing, building, and maintaining software systems. Soft Tech professionals often collaborate across teams to create applications, manage databases, and ensure the smooth operation of technology solutions. The field is dynamic and requires both technical skills and problem-solving abilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Software Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Technician, you typically need strong troubleshooting skills, foundational programming knowledge, and at least an associate degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with operating systems, diagnostic tools, and ticketing systems such as Jira or ServiceNow is common, and certifications like CompTIA A+ or Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals are often valued. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with users and team members. These technical and interpersonal skills are crucial to efficiently resolving software issues and supporting organizational IT needs.
What are popular job titles related to Soft Tech jobs in Indiana? For Soft Tech jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Soft Tech jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Soft Tech jobs in Indiana are:
Soft Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Soft Tech job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,500 per year, or $27.2 per hour.
Product Development Engineer - Soft Goods

Product Development Engineer - Soft Goods

Central Garden & Pet

Fort Wayne, IN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Central Garden & Pet rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Central Garden & Pet

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 68,222 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at Central Garden & Pet

  • 97%

    97% say they get paid breaks

    say they get paid breaks

  • 94%

    94% say it is easy to take sick days

    say it is easy to take sick days

  • 94%

    94% say they don’t worry about hours

    say they don’t worry about hours

Featured by Central Garden & Pet, based on 40 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees

Job description

Description

ABOUT THE COMPANY
Central Home Brands is a division of Central Garden & Pet, focused on designing and manufacturing soft goods (outdoor cushions, pillows, and pet products) for both Retail and eCommerce.
 
ABOUT THE ROLE
We’re building the next generation of outdoor and pet products—and we’re looking for a Product Development Engineer to help bring them to life. You’ll work hands-on with products, collaborate directly with manufacturing, and have real influence on how products are designed and produced at scale.
 
The Product Development Engineer will focus on engineering initiatives at our Fort Wayne, IN manufacturing facility, while working closely with cross-functional partners, including Product Development, Design, Sales, Operations, and Sourcing. The ideal candidate has experience in textile engineering and demonstrates a strong work ethic, flexibility, and attention to detail.  They will leverage their experience in product design, materials, manufacturing processes, and quality systems to ensure products meet performance, cost, and aesthetic requirements.
 
This position reports to the Director of Product Development and may be based in Bingham Farms, MI (Corporate) or Fort Wayne, IN (Manufacturing Plant). Domestic travel between 25% to 50% is required.
 
If you’re excited about building consumer products from concept to production in a collaborative, hands-on environment, we’d love to hear from you!
 
What You’ll Do
  • Engineer products from concept through validation, to enable volume manufacturing. This includes specification development, prototyping, and testing.
  • Lead projects or small teams within product engineering, with opportunities to grow into broader technical or people leadership responsibilities.
  • Leverage prior experience with textiles, soft goods, and sewing techniques to achieve the desired product goals.
  • Develop and maintain 3D product models and technical specifications to support domestic and international prototyping.
  • Identify opportunities for cost reduction, product improvement, and process optimization.
  • Partner cross-functionally with Product Development, Design, Item Setup, and Production teams to ensure engineering accuracy and alignment as products transition from development to production.
  • Manage technical documentation, item specifications, and product data within CAD and PLM systems.
  • Provide leadership input across Technical Services processes, with scope to take ownership of key areas such as engineering drawing specifications, bills of materials, routing set-up, cut layouts, packing guidance, rate evaluations, and standard operating procedures.
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of material technologies, manufacturing processes, and consumer product trends relevant to Technical Services and Product Development and actively share insights that inform team strategy and product decisions.
  • Contribute to additional projects and initiatives as business needs evolve. 
Professional Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in textile engineering, soft goods, or a related field
  • Proven ability to lead teams or projects, with experience transitioning from individual contributor to first-level people leadership.
Required Skills:
  • Proficiency with CAD Software (Auto CAD, Turbo CAD, or similar)
  • Proficiency with 3D Modelling Software (Clo3D or similar)
  • Ability to create and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and BOMs
  • Strong competency in Microsoft Office Programs (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
  • Highly detail-oriented, with the ability to manage accuracy while maintaining a big-picture perspective.
  • Flexibility to support special projects across Product Development Engineering, R&D, and Manufacturing beyond daily responsibilities.
  • Excellent communication skills (written, verbal, and visual) to describe technical details in a relatable way to a variety of audiences.
  • Excellent project management and organizational abilities
  • Strong understanding of materials used in soft goods: fabric, fiber, foam, etc.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience using Product Lifecycle Management software
  • SAP experience
  • Familiarity with ASTM, ISO, or other relevant testing standards
  • Experience working with overseas manufacturing
  • Experience developing products for outdoor, pet, or home goods categories 
  • Experience with Packaging Engineering
  • Experience or prior work with electrical components (i.e. heating elements)

BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS

  • Paid Time Off – Enjoy paid vacation days, holidays, and a floating holiday!
  • Top-Tier Health Coverage – Comprehensive health insurance benefits include medical, dental, vision, accident, disability, dependent life, and other voluntary options.  Our Health Savings Accounts (HSA) are available with a company-funded stipend.
  • Peace of Mind – Employer-paid Life Insurance
  • Secure Your Future – A competitive 401(k) plan with employer match to help you plan ahead.
  • Family First – Paid Parental Leave so you can focus on what matters most.
  • Grow With Us – We support your journey with Education Assistance for college degrees and professional certifications.
  • Career Advancement – Opportunities for career advancement and internal mobility.
  • Never Stop Learning – Unlock access to thousands of free online courses through our Learning & Development platform.
  • Celebrate You – Our Employee Recognition Programs spotlight your achievements and contributions.
  • Support When You Need It – Confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for personal and professional support.
  • Perks Galore – Enjoy discounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more!
Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) is a leading consumer goods company in the pet and garden industries. Guided by the belief that home is central to life, the Company's purpose is to proudly nurture happy and healthy homes. For over 45 years, its innovative and trusted solutions have helped lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier, and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a diversified portfolio of market-leading brands including Amdro®, Aqueon®, Best Bully Sticks®, Cadet®, C&S®, Farnam®, Ferry-Morse®, Kaytee®, Nylabone®, Pennington®, Sevin® and Zoёcon®. With fiscal 2025 net sales of $3.1 billion, Central has strong manufacturing and logistics capabilities supported by a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. The Company is headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, and employs over 6,000 people, primarily across North America. Visit www.central.com to learn more.
 
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.
#LI-MJ1

Working at Central Garden & Pet

Perks for frontline workers

From Central Garden & Pet, via Breakroom

  • Safety is a top priority!

  • Paid Vacation

  • Paid Holidays

  • Paid Sick Time

  • Paid Breaks

  • Consistent shift and schedule

  • Comprehensive Health Insurance

  • 401k with Company Match

  • Referral Program with Cash Bonus

  • Education Assistance

  • Paid Parental Leave

About Central Garden & Pet, in their own words

From Central Garden & Pet

Our leading consumer and professional brands provide forward-thinking, high quality products to care for your lawn, garden, pets and community. We are committed to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier and communities grow stronger.

Company values

From Central Garden & Pet

The Central Way | We Do the Right Thing | We Strive to be the Best | We are Entrepreneurial | We Win Together | We Grow Every Day | We are Passionate

Diversity and inclusion statement

From Central Garden & Pet

Central Garden & Pet is committed to building a great place to work that embraces diversity as a key pillar of our culture. This is a journey, and we are committed to listening, learning and doing the work to move forward together.

What Central Garden & Pet employees say

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