Product Developer (On-Site)

Gopher Sport is hiring an on-site Product Developer in Owatonna, MN to develop and launch company-brand products and improve existing offerings. This role manages product development projects from early concept through launch, coordinating with vendors and internal teams while maintaining clear documentation of progress.

Role Summary

In this position, you will oversee assigned product development projects using Gopher Sport’s established process. You will work to ensure each product meets company standards for differentiation, performance, appearance, functionality, quality, and profitability. You will also build Product Requirements Documents (PRDs) and support transitions into production-ready, first-shipment launch states.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage assigned product development projects from concept through launch using Gopher Sport’s established product development process.
• Ensure products meet or exceed company standards for differentiation, performance, appearance, functionality, quality, and profitability.
• Develop Product Requirements Documents (PRDs) using market research, customer insights, usability considerations, and financial analysis.
• Identify, evaluate, negotiate with, onboard, and manage supplier partners across the product development lifecycle.
• Coordinate development, testing, evaluation, documentation, and approval of prototypes, samples, and production-ready products.
• Manage activities required to transition approved products into production, ready for first shipment, with a focus on product quality and launch readiness.
• Investigate product quality concerns and partner with vendors and internal teams to implement corrective actions.
• Lead creation of product collateral, including product descriptions, user manuals, assembly instructions, and other customer-facing materials.
• Review product categories and assortments to identify market gaps, product improvement opportunities, and future development projects.
• Lead product improvement initiatives by translating customer, market, and business insights into product enhancements and new development opportunities.
• Maintain accurate product specifications, project documentation, and supporting records throughout the product lifecycle.
• Collaborate cross-functionally and support ongoing growth and performance of assigned product projects.

Required Qualifications

• 4 year Bachelor’s degree in Business, Project Management, Supply Chain, Marketing or related field
• Strong project management and organizational skills with attention to detail
• Basic knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials, and product costing
• Ability to drive timelines and hold stakeholders accountable
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making ability
• Ability to balance multiple priorities and adapt quickly
• Proficient with all Microsoft Office applications

Tools and Technologies

• Microsoft Office

Compensation

Salary range: USD 63,300 - 88,300 per yearly.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and benefit package
• Traditional and HSA Health Insurance options
• Vision
• 3 weeks of Paid Time Off accrued in the first year
• 3 weeks of remote work with flexible hours
• 8 company paid holidays
• Profit sharing
• 401K
• Lifestyle Spending Account
• Tuition reimbursement
• Product discounts
• Onsite fitness center

Application Instructions

• A short, clear Cover Letter that explains why you are interested in this specific position and includes examples of prior successes performing the responsibilities listed above.
• Your Resume