Engineering

Product Developer - Protective Garments

  • Location

    Fulda

  • Sector:

    Defence

  • Job type:

    Permanent

  • Salary:

    Negotiable

  • Contact:

    Ben Clapham

  • Contact email:

    b.clapham@ioassociates.eu

  • Job ref:

    BBBH166901_1757071180

Product Developer - Protective Garments / Vests / Technical Textiles

Location: Germany (relocation support considered)
Full-time, Permanent

Are you passionate about developing garments that make a real difference in people's safety? We are seeking an experienced Product Developer with expertise in technical textiles, protective garments, and 2D CAD-based design to join a leading European organisation in the defence and protective equipment sector.

What You'll Do

  • Lead the design and development of protective vests, plate carriers, and tactical garments from concept to production.
  • Create and refine 2D CAD patterns (Lectra, Gerber, Optitex, or similar).
  • Oversee prototype development, fitting, sewing, and adjustments.
  • Collaborate closely with engineers, textile specialists, and R&D teams to ensure performance, comfort, and compliance with technical specifications.
  • Prepare and maintain technical documentation, BOMs, grading, and material selection.
  • Support innovation projects to develop next-generation protective and ballistic garment solutions.

What We're Looking For

  • Proven experience in garment/product development (protective clothing, technical apparel, or sportswear preferred).
  • Strong skills in 2D CAD pattern design (Lectra, Gerber, Optitex, or similar software).
  • Solid understanding of sewing, prototyping, and garment construction.
  • Background in technical textiles, PPE, or ballistic/protective gear is highly desirable.
  • Strong organizational and communication skills; ability to work cross-functionally in R&D.
  • Fluent English (German or another European language is a plus).

Why Join?

  • Work on cutting-edge projects in the protective textiles and defence garment sector.
  • Play a hands-on role in developing life-saving products used by defence and law enforcement professionals worldwide.
  • Be part of a collaborative, international team that values innovation, precision, and safety.
  • Competitive salary and benefits package, plus relocation support if required.