Apparel Product Developer (12-Month Maternity Leave Contract)
Tentree
tentree is a lifestyle apparel company based out of Vancouver, Canada that plants ten trees for every item purchased. Our apparel is one of the most sustainable available today and we’re ranked as one of the top apparel brands as recognized by B Corp and Textile Exchange. Since our start in 2012, we have planted over 117 million trees around the world. By combining social and environmental consciousness with apparel, we empower our customers to have a direct impact on saving the planet through intentional purchasing.
Who are we looking for?
As tentree’s Product Developer, you sit at the intersection of design vision and technical execution; bringing ideas to life in a way that is both commercially viable and true to our brand. You translate creative intent into thoughtfully constructed, production-ready products, ensuring each style meets our standards for fit, quality, and performance.
With a strong foundation in garment construction and a sharp eye for detail, you guide product through every stage of development; from initial design hand-off through to production. Acting as a key liaison between our internal Product team and manufacturing partners, you bring clarity to the process, solve challenges proactively, and keep timelines on track within our Go-To-Market calendar.
We're looking for someone who is energized by the balance of precision and collaboration; partnering cross-functionally to refine product, elevate quality, and continuously improve how we build. Your work directly impacts the integrity of our product line, ensuring every piece not only looks good, but is made to last.
This role reports to the Senior Technical Developer and works closely with the broader Product team to bring tentree’s collections to life.
6 Month Goals
- Accurately take body measurements, lead fit sessions independently, and deliver clear, actionable style review comments to vendors
- Own the product lifecycle, completing each step accurately and on schedule
- Keep the sample archive organized and up to date
Key Responsibilities
Technical Product Development & Fit
- Own the entire development process for all apparel products from design hand off to production
- Create and update tech packs (BOMs, measurements, construction details, sketches)
- Measure samples and patterns; flag discrepancies against specs and requested changes
- Lead fit sessions; identify issues and define clear next steps
- Write and send style review comments to vendors with specific, actionable corrections
- Ensure fit, grading, and construction are consistent and meet design intent and company standards
- Troubleshoot fit and construction issues with practical, production-ready solutions
- Maintain accurate product data in PLM and development trackers
- Schedule and coordinate fit models and fittings
Collaboration & Process
- Align with Design, Merchandising, and Sourcing on development direction and changes
- Communicate directly with vendors via email and video; follow up to keep development on track
- Identify risks to cost, quality, or timelines and escalate early
- Support continuous improvements in development processes and workflows
- Research and apply new methods, materials, or approaches (with a focus on sustainability)
- Mentor interns or junior team members as needed
- Maintain and organize the sample archive
Professional Requirements:
- 4+ years fit specialist, product development and/or apparel design experience preferably in a mass production environment.
- Pattern making experience is required
- Strong knowledge of garment construction, fit, and grading
- Proficient in Adobe Illustrator. Experience working with Centric (or a similar PLM) is an asset
- Strong understanding of end-to-end product development cycle for both D2C and B2B GTM calendars
- Experience or comfort working in various apparel categories such as knits, woven, fully fashioned, and outerwear (outerwear development experience is considered an asset)
Personal Strengths:
- Strong organizational skills and excellent attention to detail is required
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt readily to change
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to conduct fit sessions or vendor meetings independently
- Ability to work in a dynamic, collaborative team environment
- Ability to manage multiple and changing seasonal priorities
- Approach work with a sense of fun, curiosity, and thirst for learning
At tentree, we offer a total rewards package that supports your wellbeing, growth and everyday life.
Alongside a competitive salary, you can expect:
- A variety of time off programs including vacation, sick days and office closures
- Extended Health Benefits & HSA/LSA top ups
- Training and development opportunities
- Employee discounts on tentree products
- A spacious East Vancouver HQ
- A hybrid schedule with three in-office days per week (Tues-Thurs)
A typical hiring range for this position is $65,000 - $75,000 CAD per year with the final salary offer based on your qualifications, job-related skills, and relevant experience.
tentree is proud to be a certified inspiring workplace and an equal opportunity employer. We’re committed to building a team that brings varied backgrounds, perspectives and strengths to the table. All employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.