Product Development Specialist

C.R. Plastic Products Inc. (an Ice River Sustainable Solutions Company) located in Stratford, Ontario is currently hiring a Product Development Specialist. POSITION SUMMARY This position is responsible for leading the development of innovative, high-quality outdoor furniture collections. This role blends trend research, consumer insights, and hands-on development to bring compelling products to market that balance form, function, and durability. You’ll work cross-functionally with design, sourcing, marketing, and supply chain to manage the entire product lifecycle — from concept through launch. As a Product Development Specialist, you can expect: Compensation Range: $80,000 - $100,000 RRSP Program Dental Care Extended Health Care Life Insurance Employee Assistance Program Company Events On-site parking Paid time off Store Discount Wellness Program QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES As a member of our Engineering team, your responsibilities will include: Develop seasonal product strategies aligned with brand positioning, market trends, and customer preferences. High level of creativity to drive unique product designs Translate insights into innovative product concepts and collections tailored to outdoor living and lifestyle trends. Own the end-to-end product development process: from ideation, design briefs, material selection, prototyping, sampling, to final production sign-off. Partner with sourcing and manufacturing teams to ensure product feasibility, quality, and cost targets are met. Conduct competitive analysis and monitor industry trends to identify product opportunities and white space. Help ensure on-time product delivery across multiple product lines. Work closely with design, engineering, quality, and supply chain teams to align on materials, construction, packaging, and performance standards. Ensure products meet outdoor durability standards (e.g., UV resistance, weatherproofing, material performance). Explore and implement sustainable materials and practices. International travel may be required (less than 10%). Perform other duties as assigned. EDUCATION/SKILLS/EXPERIENCE Bachelor's degree or diploma in Product Design, Industrial Design, Business, or relevant work experience in a related field. 2-5 years of experience in product development or product management, ideally in furniture, home goods, or consumer durables. Strong understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, and design principles relevant to outdoor furniture. Excellent project management and communication skills. Proficient in tools such as Excel, PowerPoint, SolidWorks, Adobe Creative Suite, or 3D modeling software SAFETY REQUIREMENTS Must observe and practice all safety regulations, up to and including wearing personal protective equipment when necessary. WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and stand; use hands to fingers, handle, or feel; and talk and hear.  The employee frequently is required to reach with hands and arms.  The employee is occasionally required to walk; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.  The work environment and physical demands detailed above are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of the job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Disclaimer The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification.  They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.  All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time as needed.