Product Development Expert - Franklin Professionals

Product/Industrial Designer (Full-Time, On-Site)

Why Join us? Are you passionate about sports and eager to bring your creativity to life? Are you someone who thrives on innovation and fresh ideas? We're looking for a product development expert who shares a love for sports and enjoys creating cutting-edge products. Our company specializes in high-quality protective equipment for diamond sports, such as baseball and fastpitch softball. We are driven by a commitment to continuous improvement and innovation to benefit both our customers and the company. We are looking for a passionate Product/Industrial Designer to join our dynamic Product Development team.

About the role: As a Product/Industrial Designer, you will play a pivotal role in designing and developing sports equipment and accessories from concept to production, ensuring a seamless transition to manufacturing. This hands-on, on-site role in Leominster, MA, may involve occasional domestic and international travel to collaborate with partners and manufacturers.

How you will contribute:

• Collaborate with Product Development and Sales teams to conceptualize and create innovative sports equipment.
• Conduct market research with professional athletes and coaches to inform product designs.
• Manage the full lifecycle of new product development, from initial concept through production and optimization.
• Oversee product development timelines, ensuring timely production and seasonal launches.
• Develop and prototype designs based on user research, market trends, and business goals.
• Create detailed concept sketches and 2D line art for product development.
• Build complex 3D CAD designs, such as batting helmets and catcher’s gear, for mold tooling.
• Utilize 3D printing technology to create prototypes using on-site machinery.
• Develop Tech Packs for product sampling and production.
• Communicate with manufacturing partners to oversee product development and sampling.
• Monitor product costs to balance market competitiveness and profitability.

What we need from you:

• A minimum of 3 years of professional experience in product development with a strong foundation in design principles.
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop for creative design tasks.
• Advanced 3D CAD modeling skills, with expertise in SolidWorks (Rhino experience is a plus).
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects.
• Problem-solving abilities, decision-making skills, and a willingness to learn.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Reliable and punctual attendance.
• Understanding of NOCSAE testing standards is a plus.
• A passion for baseball or softball, or prior experience as a player, is a plus.

Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $75,000 per year

Benefits Include:

• 401(k) with matching
• Dental, health, vision, and life insurance
• Flexible spending account (FSA) and health savings account (HSA)
• Paid time off

Work Schedule:

• Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• On-site position

This is a hands-on role where you'll take products from the drawing board to 3D CAD design and 3D printing, collaborating with factories to bring designs to life.