TWI, Inc. is hiring a direct-hire Japanese Bilingual Plush Merchandise Developer to support plush product development from early concept through production sample approvals. This hybrid role is based in Bellevue, WA and focuses on coordinating prototypes, guiding vendor improvements, and keeping development documentation organized across multiple projects.
Role Summary
In this position, you will lead plush product development end to end, reviewing prototypes and production samples for quality, construction, materials, and character accuracy. You will also manage development records and contribute to ongoing improvements to plush development standards, review guidelines, and team processes.
Responsibilities
- Lead plush product development and approval from concept through production sample approvals.
- Review prototypes and production samples for quality, construction, materials, and character accuracy.
- Provide clear, actionable feedback to vendors to improve product quality and manufacturability.
- Create concept sketches, development artwork, or technical illustrations as needed for plush prototyping and sample development.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders, external partners, and vendors throughout the product development process.
- Manage multiple product development projects while balancing quality, cost, and timelines.
- Identify development risks and recommend practical solutions.
- Support continuous improvement of plush development standards, review guidelines, and team processes.
- Organize and maintain product samples, development records, and project documentation.
- Perform other duties as required.
Requirements
- 3–5 years of professional experience in plush, toy, or 3D consumer product development.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience.
- Strong understanding of product construction, materials, manufacturing processes, and quality standards.
- Demonstrated ability to evaluate product quality, character accuracy, and consumer appeal.
- Experience working directly with overseas manufacturers and cross-functional teams.
- Strong project management, prioritization, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook), SharePoint, and Confluence.
Technologies
- Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook)
- SharePoint
- Confluence
Preferred Qualifications
- Educational background or professional experience in Product Design, Industrial Design, Graphic Design, Illustration, or a related field.
- Bilingual in Japanese/English.
- Ability to create concept sketches, development artwork, and technical illustrations for product prototyping and sample development.
- Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop.
- Experience developing character-based consumer products.
Compensation and Location
This direct-hire position is located in Bellevue, WA (hybrid) and offers a salary range of USD 86,000–100,000 per year.
Benefits
- Medical, Dental, Life, Vision
- 401(k)
- Paid time off (PTO)
- Health insurance
Application Question
How many years of professional experience do you have in Plush, Toy, or 3D Consumer product development?
