Position Summary
The International Product Development Intern will support the Canada Product Development team with day-to-day coordination across the product creation process. Working closely with the Director of Product Development, the intern will help maintain product information, organize samples and materials, track development milestones, and communicate updates to internal partners. This paid internship is designed for a student who wants practical experience developing apparel and consumer products for the Canadian market.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with seasonal product development tracking from initial concept through sample approval and handoff to Production.
- Update development calendars, style and sample trackers, product information, and status reports under the direction of the Director of Product Development.
- Coordinate the receipt, organization, labeling, and distribution of development samples and materials.
- Follow up with internal teams and vendors regarding samples, fabric and trim submissions, artwork, packaging, testing, and approvals.
- Help maintain product specifications, bills of materials, sample comments, approvals, and related development files.
- Review product records for completeness and flag missing information or timeline risks to the manager.
- Prepare samples, reports, meeting notes, and presentation materials for line reviews and product meetings.
- Partner with Design, Technical Design, Sourcing, Production, Sales, and other departments to support timely product development.
- Assist with market research, competitive reviews, and other product development projects based on business needs and the intern's level of experience.
Required Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from, a college or university program in product development, fashion business, apparel design, textiles, merchandising, or a related field.
- Strong organization skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple assignments and deadlines.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint.
- Clear written and verbal communication skills and a professional approach to follow-up.
- Ability to work onsite in Toronto approximately 20 hours per week for the six-month internship.
- Legally eligible to work in Canada for the duration of the internship.
Preferred Qualifications
- Coursework, projects, or prior internship experience related to apparel, product development, merchandising, design, sourcing, or retail.
- Familiarity with tech packs, bills of materials, fabric and trim development, product samples, or garment construction.
- Experience with Adobe Illustrator, product lifecycle management systems, spreadsheets, or detailed product records.
- Learning Opportunities
- Hands-on exposure to the product development process from concept through sample approval and production handoff.
- Experience using development calendars, sample trackers, product specifications, and cross-functional reporting tools.
- Understanding of how Design, Product Development, Technical Design, Sourcing, Production, and Sales coordinate to develop products for retail customers.
- Direct coaching and feedback from the Director of Product Development and other members of the Canada team.
Application Information
Application Deadline Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Early applications are encouraged.
How to Apply Submit a current resume and a brief cover letter explaining your interest in international product development and your availability during the six-month internship through the application link or submission instructions provided with this posting.
Additional Information
This is a paid, part-time internship expected to average 20 hours per week. The internship is initially planned for six months. Hours or duration may increase later if business needs and the intern's availability allow. The role requires regular onsite attendance at the Toronto office.
Mad Engine Global is committed to providing an inclusive workplace and considers qualified applicants without discrimination based on characteristics protected by applicable law. Accommodations are available during the recruitment process upon request.
