Position: Prototype Specialist – Leather Goods Department: Product Development Level: Specialized Technical Operator Reports to: Product Development / Engineering Position Objective Develop, build, and validate functional prototypes of leather goods and accessories, translating designs and technical specifications into viable, efficient, and replicable production solutions for release to mass production. ⸻ Key Responsibilities Technical Development and Prototyping * Create molds and technical patterns for leather goods using DraftSight, AutoCAD 2D, or other 2D CAD software. * Interpret technical sheets, 2D drawings, illustrations, and design guidelines in coordination with the Product Development team. * Develop technical patternmaking considering materials, thicknesses, tolerances, assembly methods, and manufacturing processes. * Build and assemble complete prototypes ensuring functionality, aesthetics, and production viability. Manufacturing Processes * Define, validate, and document manufacturing processes for: * Cutting * Preliminary operations * Stitching * Assembly * Trims and finishing * Propose technical improvements aimed at efficiency, reduced cycle times, costs, and material waste. * Ensure designs are production-viable prior to release for manufacturing. Machinery and Tooling * Operate industrial sewing machines: flatbed, triple-feed, post, and saddle-stitching machines. * Design and fabricate auxiliary tooling (guides, dummies, marking tools, supports, assembly aids, etc.) to facilitate production and standardize processes. Cross-Functional Collaboration * Collaborate closely with Production, Quality, and Procurement teams to validate materials, processes, and technical alternatives. * Support material, hardware, and assembly method testing. ⸻ Technical Requirements (Mandatory) * Proven experience in leather goods, handbags, wallets, or leather accessory prototyping. * Proficiency in technical patternmaking applied to production. * Functional proficiency in DraftSight, AutoCAD 2D, or equivalent CAD software. * Practical knowledge and operation of industrial sewing machines: * Flatbed * Triple-feed * Post * Saddle-stitching * Knowledge of materials: leathers, linings, reinforcements, interfacings, hardware. * Ability to define operation sequences and manufacturing processes. * Manual and technical skill in creating auxiliary tooling. ⸻ Key Competencies * High ability to technically interpret designs. * Production-oriented thinking and focus on industrial efficiency. * Attention to detail and quality orientation. * Analysis and problem-solving on the production floor. * Collaborative work with technical and operational departments. * Process organization and documentation. ⸻ Experience * Minimum 3 years in similar roles within leather goods, footwear, or accessories manufacturing facilities. * Direct experience in prototype development and pre-production processes. ⸻ Education * Technical diploma in leather goods, manufacturing processes, footwear, or related field. * Proven experience may substitute formal education. ⸻ Position Type: Full-time Salary: $15,999.00 – $16,000.00 per month Work Location: On-site employment