Product Development Analyst; SMU & Fit​/Wear Testing

Who We Are

At Olu Kai, we build premium products for the ocean lifestyle. Our footwear is created using the highest quality materials and crafted into beautiful, functional and incredibly comfortable designs that reflect the spirit of the ocean lifestyle we all enjoy.

We are committed to creating quality products for our customers while leaving the smallest footprint possible on the planet. Our company philosophy is to be environmentally responsible as manufacturers and to pledge Olu Kai to actively support and work for a clean environment and a better quality of life.

Our customers and staff embody the connection that exists between people and the ocean; it is our culture. We want to build a team of individuals who embrace this culture, and have a passion for providing premium products and service to our customers.

The Product Development Analyst is a hybrid role responsible for supporting both Special Make-Up (SMU) product development and fit & wear testing initiatives. This position plays a critical role in ensuring product excellence from concept through commercialization by combining hands‑on product evaluation with development execution.

This role is split approximately 50% SMU product development and 50% fit and wear testing, requiring a balance of analytical thinking, product intuition, and strong cross‑functional collaboration.

• Fit & Wear Testing (50%):
  
  - Plan, coordinate, and execute fit and wear testing protocols across footwear styles.
  
  - Evaluate product performance, fit, comfort, and durability through structured testing.
  
  - Collect, analyze, and document feedback from wear testers.
  
  - Partner with Product Development, Design, and Technical teams to identify issues and recommend improvements.
  
  - Track and report on key fit and performance metrics to support decision‑making.
  
  - Maintain consistency in fit standards and testing methodologies.
• SMU Product Development (50%):
  
  - Support the end‑to‑end development of SMU (Special Make-Up) footwear products.
  
  - Collaborate with Design, Merchandising, and factory partners to execute product briefs.
  
  - Manage timelines, ensuring on‑time sample delivery and commercialization milestones.
  
  - Review samples for accuracy against design intent, specifications, and quality standards.
  
  - Track development progress, costs, and changes throughout the lifecycle.
  
  - Assist in resolving development issues related to materials, construction, and fit.

• Bachelor’s degree in Biomechanics, Kinesiology, Product Testing, Human Factors, or related field; or equivalent experience.
• 1+ years of experience in footwear product development, wear testing, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of footwear construction, materials, and fit principles.
• Experience working with factories and cross‑functional teams.
• Ability to assess product both qualitatively (comfort, fit) and quantitatively (test results, metrics).
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and follow‑through.
• Comfortable managing multiple projects and shifting priorities.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.

• Experience in both product development and wear testing environments.
• Background in performance or lifestyle footwear categories.
• Familiarity with testing protocols and data collection methods.
• Passion for product innovation and continuous improvement.

• Product curiosity and hands‑on mindset.
• Analytical thinking and problem‑solving.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Clear communication across teams and partners.
• Ability to balance technical rigor with product intuition.

This is an in‑office hybrid position, mandatory 4 days per week in office in Irvine, CA with the option to work from home 1 day per week. Subject to change without notice as per company guidelines.

The salary range for this position is $72,000 to $85,000 plus opportunity for annual bonus; salary is based on the experience that you bring to the position.

• Complimentary chef‑prepared breakfast and lunch Monday–Thursday.
• Generous product gift program and brand discounts.
• Company bonus…