Fabric R&D Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

Our Heritage: An American Original Since 1977

Founded on the Upper East Side of New York City by brothers Jay and Kevin McLaughlin, J.McLaughlin was built on a simple idea: great style feels personal.

From a single neighborhood shop to nearly 200 stores nationwide, we have always believed in being local and loyal—to our customers, our communities, and one another. Today, nearly 1,000 employees bring the brand to life across the country, from Maine to Maui.

For over 20 years, our corporate home has been in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, where creativity, craftsmanship, and collaboration continue to shape our next chapter.

Giving back is part of who we are. We support the communities we serve through local partnerships, charitable initiatives, and a belief that businesses should leave places better than they found them.

Overview

We are seeking a Fabric R&D Assistant to join our Product Development team, reporting to the Director of Fabric. This role supports the development, testing, and commercialization of fabrics that align with brand aesthetic, performance requirements, cost targets, and sustainability goals. This role is highly cross-functional, partnering with Design, Product Development, Sourcing, and Production to ensure fabric readiness from concept through bulk while contributing to a collaborative, high-performing, and values-driven workplace.

This position is primarily based in our Greenpoint, Brooklyn office and follows a hybrid schedule, dependent on role and business needs.

About the role

Essential Functions*:

Fabric Development & Innovation

• Assist in sourcing and developing new fabrics, finishes, and trims aligned with seasonal design direction.
• Track fabric development from concept through approval, including lab dips, strike-offs, and bulk submissions.
• Support fabric innovation initiatives (e.g., sustainability, performance, cost engineering).

Testing & Quality

• Coordinate fabric testing (performance, wash, colorfastness, shrinkage, etc.) with internal teams and external labs.
• Maintain and track testing results; flag risks and inconsistencies.
• Assist in resolving fabric-related issues in development and production.

Sample & Library Management

• Organize and maintain fabric library, archives, and seasonal fabric boards.
• Manage incoming fabric submissions and ensure proper labeling and documentation.
• Prepare fabric presentations for cross-functional reviews.

Vendor & Mill Communication

• Communicate with mills/vendors on development timelines, submissions, and follow-ups.
• Track vendor performance on speed, quality, and innovation.
• Support mill onboarding and capability tracking.

Data & Systems

• Maintain accurate fabric data in PLM or internal systems (composition, pricing, lead times, testing status).
• Assist in cost tracking and fabric margin implications.
• Build and update fabric development trackers and calendars.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Design to align on aesthetic and performance needs.
• Work with Product Development and Production to ensure fabric readiness for bulk.
• Support Sourcing in cost negotiations and vendor strategy.

Additional Job Responsibilities:

• Other related duties as assigned

Other duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

What we are looking for

Skills & Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Textiles, Material Science, Fashion, or related field preferred.
• 0–2 years of experience in fabric development, sourcing, or product development (internships included).
• Basic understanding of textile construction, fibers, and finishes.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Detail-oriented with ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Proficient in Excel; familiarity with PLM systems a plus.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds occasionally.
• Must be able to access and navigate various department at the organization's facilities.

Benefits at a Glance

At J.McLaughlin, we design our benefits with the same care and intention as our product. Our benefits are designed to support well-being, flexibility, and long-term growth.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match (eligibility based on hours worked)
• Generous paid time off and paid holidays
• Hybrid or flexible work environment (role-dependent)
• Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage
• Optional Critical Illness and Accident insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Clothing allowance and generous discounts on J.McLaughlin merchandise
• Discretionary bonus opportunities (role-dependent)
• Employee referral incentives and commuter benefits

Pay Transparency & Disclaimer

$26 - $30/hour, depending on experience, skills, and qualifications.

Compensation and benefits may vary based on role, location, and eligibility. J.McLaughlin reserves the right to modify compensation and benefit programs at any time, in accordance with applicable laws.

Equal Opportunity

J.McLaughlin is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status.