Product Technologist Contract at Ackermans

As a Product Technologist specialising in Girlswear at Ackermans, you will be instrumental in ensuring the quality, safety, and compliance of all girlswear products. This fixed-term contract role requires a keen eye for detail, strong technical expertise in garment construction, and a collaborative spirit to work across various departments. You will be responsible for researching, developing, and assessing apparel products, ensuring they meet the company's rigorous standards and customer expectations, ultimately contributing to the brand's reputation for value and quality.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with Buying, Trend & Design and Sourcing teams to continuously improve product performance, consistency and cost efficiency - ensuring we deliver the right product, at the right quality, at the right price for our Customers. This involves active participation in product development cycles, from concept to launch, providing technical guidance to ensure that girlswear products meet stringent quality benchmarks, are cost-effective, and align with the latest trends and safety standards.
• To research, source and develop new and existing Apparel Products in accordance with Company strategy. You will explore innovative materials, construction techniques, and finishes, translating design concepts into commercially viable and technically sound products that resonate with the target market.
• To accurately Assess products against company standards and specifications in accordance with the critical path to ensure consistent compliance across all departments and suppliers. This includes conducting thorough inspections, fit sessions, and testing, identifying any deviations and implementing corrective actions to maintain product integrity.
• To maintain, communicate and issue standards and product specifications. You will create and update detailed technical packs, ensuring all suppliers and internal teams have clear guidelines for manufacturing, quality control, and material usage, fostering consistency across the supply chain.
• To review and provide insights regarding necessary product specification adjustments in accordance with Company strategy. You will analyse product performance, customer feedback, and market trends to recommend improvements, driving continuous innovation and ensuring products remain competitive and desirable.

Why Join the Company

Joining Ackermans as a Product Technologist offers a unique opportunity to apply your technical expertise in a fast-paced and impactful retail environment. You will be part of a dedicated team that values quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. This 6-month fixed-term contract provides an excellent platform to gain hands-on experience in product development within the girlswear category, working with diverse teams and suppliers. Ackermans is committed to delivering value to its customers, and your role will be crucial in upholding these standards, contributing directly to the brand's success and reputation. You will have the chance to shape product lines, ensuring they are not only fashionable but also durable, safe, and compliant with all relevant regulations.

How to Apply

Please apply using the Quick Apply button on this page.

• Grade 12 Certificate/Matric (Essential)
• National Diploma in Clothing or Fashion design / Clothing Management OR Bachelor Degree in Consumer Science (with specialisation in Clothing Management), OR Other Relevant Tertiary Qualification (Preferred)
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, with the ability to resolve technical product and production challenges
• Ability to clearly communicate technical requirements to suppliers and translate complex technical information into practical insights for non-technical stakeholders
• Confident in representing the business in engagements with suppliers, manufacturers and internal stakeholders
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail, particularly when reviewing specifications, samples and production outputs
• Strong analytical capability, with the ability to interpret test results, identify trends and drive continuous product improvement
• Effective planning, organising and time management skills to manage multiple product cycles and critical path deadlines
• Well-developed interpersonal, networking and relationship-building skills, particularly within a supplier and manufacturing environment
• Excellent command of the English language, both written and verbal, with strong report-writing capability
• Sound understanding of garment construction, pattern making and QA standards
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and compliance requirements
• Familiarity with South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) standards and testing requirements applicable to clothing
• Understanding of product technology SOPs, quality standards and best practices across garment construction and production
• Ability to apply technical knowledge to support product development, improve quality and ensure consistency across apparel ranges
• 3-5 years retail experience in Product Technology with broad exposure to Apparel