Product Developer – Skates

Job Summary
The Product Developer – Skates works to build the skates of the future, worn by professional players and thousands of players worldwide. As a key member of the Skates R&D team, they lead development and innovation projects from concept to production, with a strong focus on innovation at a world class level; next-generation materials and constructions.
Through design, material exploration, testing, data analysis and close collaboration with the mechanical and performance labs, they turn new ideas into validated, manufacturable products that raise the bar on performance, fit and durability.

Key accountabilities
Innovation and materials

Lead the research and development of next-generation materials and constructions for skate boots, blade holders and other components
Develop new concepts and technologies that drive future design work, in collaboration with the Advanced Concepts team
Work with material suppliers to evaluate, prototype and implement new technologies that improve performance, durability and quality
Keep a lookout on trends in materials, composites and the sporting goods industry, and turn insights into concrete product opportunities

Product development

Lead development work on selected skate projects following the COMPASS process, as part of the development triad with Product Management and Design
Define performance and durability requirements and product specifications
Manage timelines, deliverables and priorities in a fast-paced environment

Testing and validation

Coordinate closely with the mechanical lab and performance lab to define test protocols and validate product performance
Support field testing with players and integrate feedback into design iterations
Perform data analysis and reporting to issue clear improvement recommendations

Industrialization

Collaborate with the CCM development team in Asia, Sourcing and manufacturing partners to introduce, troubleshoot and industrialize new technologies
Optimize costing, specifications and processes while maintaining high quality standards


Qualifications and experience

Degree in Mechanical, Materials or Industrial Engineering, or equivalent
Experience in hard goods development and/or project management; sporting goods experience is an asset
In-depth knowledge of product design, development and manufacturing processes
Experience with materials development, testing or characterization (polymers, composites, foams, textiles) is a strong asset
Good knowledge of hockey and sports in general is an asset


Skills and competencies
Technical

Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g. SolidWorks, Creo, CATIA or similar) is a strong asset
Ability to interpret hand sketches and 2D / 3D technical drawings
Strong analytical skills, with the ability to turn test data into clear recommendations
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Word; knowledge of manufacturing support tools is a plus

Professional

Strong project management, organization, rigor and structure
Innovative mindset: curious, solution-driven and eager to challenge the status quo
Ability to work independently, solve problems, take initiative and stay agile
Ability to prioritize and meet internal timelines, with a strong sense of ownership
Excellent communication and ability to positively influence internal and external stakeholders from a wide variety of backgrounds
Excellent oral and written command of French and English