Senior Soft-Goods Product Designer / Developer (Outdoor Gear)

Company Description

Outdoor Bengal is redefining feline enrichment by setting the standard in adventure cat solutions and comprehensive cat training. We engineer high-performance harnesses, backpacks, and enrichment tools that honor cats’ instincts, while providing cat guardians with expert guidance rooted in behavioral science. Our mission is to create healthier, happier cats through innovative products and expert advice.

Role Description

This is not an entry-level position. You will be responsible for executing the entire end-to-end product innovation pipeline with minimal oversight. From product ideation to sourcing and supplier coordination, your work will directly determine whether a product succeeds or fails in a competitive market. You will take our product strategy and independently carry it through design, material selection, prototyping, supplier vetting, and quality assurance. Every detail matters. Precision, speed, and reliability are non-negotiable. If you're not already proficient in the full lifecycle of product development and sourcing, this role is not for you.

This is a contract-based remote role for an Industrial Designer / Product Sourcing to support R&D.

Main responsibilities

- Develop and refine product concepts with attention to function, aesthetics, and user experience (both pet and human).

- Identify and select appropriate materials, components, or ingredients based on performance, cost, and sustainability.

- Research, evaluate, and compare manufacturers or suppliers to ensure quality and cost-effectiveness.

- Create and manage prototypes and samples to validate design intent and manufacturability.

- Coordinate product testing and quality control to meet regulatory standards and ensure product reliability.

- Conduct and support market research to identify trends, consumer needs, and competitive products.

- Assist in finding new sourcing for existing products and materials.

- Provide support in coordinating logistics, including shipping and inventory management.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in Industrial Design and Product Design
• Experience with Prototyping and Product Development
• Strong skills in Design Thinking
• Ability to work independently and remotely
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• Experience or interest in pet products is a plus
• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Product Design, or a related field

If you are

- Self-starter

- Proactive and persistent

- Quick learner with a positive attitude

- Strong attention to detail

- Proficient in spoken and written English

- Previous experience with product development is MANDATORY

Competitive salary

- Depending on your skill set and relevant experience ($7 to $20 per hour)

Other perks

- You will work between 4 hours per day, 5 days a week

- If we work well together, we can ramp up the amount of work to an 8-hour workday, 5 days a week.

- Flexible working hours.

- Flexible vacation policy (just let us know in advance and take the day off).

- Opportunities for advancement based on performance, fostering a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship.

To apply for the position

Begin your message with 2-3 sentences explaining why you're interested in the position and why you believe you're a suitable candidate.

Please, share any have hands-on experience with soft-goods product design (patterning, materials, construction, and manufacturability)? If yes, please reference specific projects.

Please adhere strictly to the guidelines outlined above. Applications not meeting the specified requirements will not be considered.