Product Development Coordinator

Company Description Penn-Plax is a family-owned pet product manufacturer with a long history of innovation in the pet industry. Founded in 1956 as a small pet shop in Brooklyn, New York, the company quickly grew into a full-scale manufacturing operation on Pennsylvania Avenue, inspiring the name “Penn-Plax.” Over the decades, Penn-Plax has been first to market with many popular pet products, consistently refining its focus on creative, high-quality solutions for pets and their caregivers.

Today, Penn-Plax products are distributed globally and can be found on store shelves around the world, offering team members the opportunity to contribute to a well-established, internationally recognized brand.

Role Description We are seeking a full-time person to work in the product development department to create pet supplies. A Product Development Coordinator is expected to manage the entire development process from a product concept to launch. The mission is to broaden our existing product line with innovative and highly demanded products that fit the marketplace.

They will be expected to work within the Product Development team to design and develop new products, as well as update existing items. They will be responsible for costing strategies and communication throughout the company. The majority of the suppliers are located in China and there will be daily communications with multiple suppliers, primarily using email.

We are seeking an enthusiastic, highly motivated and goal-oriented person who possesses a combination of creative and analytical skills. This position is a hands experience which surpasses the ordinary desk position with many perks including travel. It is open to entry level applicants, but experience is preferred. We offer a friendly, business casual office environment, where hard work is encouraged and can open doors to further opportunities of growth.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Manage and develop multiple product lines from concept to commercialization
• Conceptualize new ideas and conduct market research
• Work closely with Chinese suppliers and members of the team to develop new products.
• Evaluating and negotiate target costs.
• Working closely with the cost accountants to create pricing strategies.
• Assisting in primary and secondary packaging needs and marketing tools.
• Communicate with all departments in the company
• Hands-on work with prototypes and samples.

Required Skills:

• Bachelors Degree
  - Business or Marketing Degree preferred
• Excellent communication, writing and interpersonal skills
• High level of organizational skills
• Great time management skills and the ability to prioritizing
• Ability to work flexibly in a fast-paced office environment
• Goal oriented, enthusiastic and motivated
• Must possess the ability to work independently
• Ability and desire to travel internationally and domestically
• Ability to use Microsoft office applications and outlook
• Previous work experience preferred but will accept compelling internship experience