Bared Footwear
Product Developer
| company: | Bared Footwear |
| job title: | Product Developer |
| location: | Oakleigh |
| work type: | Full-time |
| level: | Senior |
| closing: | 30.06.2026 |
Role Description
We’re seeking a driven and detail-oriented Product Developer to join our fast-paced product team. This is a newly created position added to support the continued growth of the business and strengthen the capacity of our product team. With a strong foundation in footwear and at least 3-5 years of industry experience, you’ll play a key role in managing the production lifecycle, owning timelines, specifications, and supplier communications, while leading key sustainability initiatives across our product ranges.
You’ll work closely with the Product and Sustainability teams, owning end-to-end processes from sample approvals to packaging and compliance. This is a hands-on, collaborative role that requires strong organisation, clear communication, and a genuine passion for footwear and responsible production.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct trend and competitor research, including retail visits, to support range development.
- Analyse range and style performance (sell-through, returns and customer feedback) to inform future range development.
- Manage seasonal range board creation and communicate updates with internal stakeholders.
- Illustrate detailed CADs and send detailed tech packs to suppliers for sample development.
- Create and manage detailed product specifications and product data entry in our system.
- Source and evaluate materials, components and trims, balancing quality, performance and cost-effectiveness.
- Be conscious of how construction, materials, and component selections can affect product cost and margin.
- Own the tracking and approval of all bulk sample and material submissions.
- Organise and document fit sessions; ensure sample flow supports critical path timelines.
- Coordinate wear-testing and quality control; review lab tests and sign off on samples to ensure compliance with quality standards.
- Manage the sample and production schedule with suppliers, maintaining clear communication and proactively flagging any risks to the critical path or delivery.
- Approve packaging components and ensure compliance with brand standards.
- Identify and track new sustainable materials and components for use in future product development.
- Update and distribute supplier manuals and process documents as needed.
- Provide reliable administrative and organisational support that drives the wider product team.
ABOUT YOU
- Minimum 3-5 years’ experience in product development or production role.
- Proven experience working directly with suppliers and managing production timelines.
- Strong Adobe Illustrator skills for CAD creation and product documentation.
- Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
- Meticulous attention to detail with a proactive, solutions-focused mindset.
- Passionate about footwear with a strong interest in sustainability and innovation.
THE BENEFITS
- A supportive and inclusive work environment.
- Be a part of a company dedicated to making a positive impact, and is a proud B Corp-certified company.
- Competitive remuneration and employee discounts.
- Well-being program (EAP, yearly free flu vaccinations, and company-funded paid parental leave).
- Company-run activities, dinners, and events.
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