Product Development Intern

Product Development Intern

The Paper Store is committed to being the premiere destination for all of our customer’s gift-giving needs. Our mission is to share our passion for The Paper Store with each customer, during each visit, by going above and beyond their expectations for both selection and service.    

The Product Development Intern will support the creative process from concept to production, including research, sketching, color, trend analysis, and design for apparel, home, and gift products. This role involves working closely with the Merchant/Buying Team to translate ideas into on-trend, marketable designs while collaborating with internal and external partners on product development, patterns, labeling, and packaging with a focus on aesthetics, quality, and value.

Portfolio required for consideration.

The Product Development Intern reports directly to the Product Development Designer.

COMPETENCIES: 

• Accountability: Demonstrates a sense of corporate responsibility. Takes personal ownership and responsibility for the quality and timeliness of work. Ensures that actions are consistent with words.
• Communication: Communicates information with consistency and clarity; uses active listening to effectively understand and provide feedback. Adjusts communication style to suit the audience to promote engagement and increase understanding.
• Creativity and Initiative: Forward-thinking, recognizes opportunities and finds new ways of doing things and implements improvements whenever possible. Encourages creativity and innovation.
• Professionalism: Maintains a professional and positive manner even under changing or uncertain conditions. Works well with a wide range of individuals to provide support, encouragement and direction. Engages others to accomplish organizational and departmental goals. Is seen as a role model.
• Personal Development: Displays self-awareness, a high level of energy, persistence and a positive outlook. Continuously seeks ways to improve and learns from mistakes and constructive feedback.

Key Responsibilities

• Be a brand ambassador for The Paper Store
• Assist in designing branded, high-quality products across various hard and soft goods categories for The Paper Store’s proprietary brands.
• Support the Product Development Manager in interpreting Buyers’ design concepts and translating them into product collections through concept boards, sketches, and trend research.
• Help create on-trend custom patterns using sketches, paintings, and Illustrator work while sourcing and editing purchased patterns to align with design goals and budgets.
• Conduct trend research via social media, competitor shopping, and trend services to support the development of fresh, marketable designs.
• Assist in creating and maintaining tech packs for overseas factories, ensuring accuracy in product specifications.
• Collaborate with external freelancers and design resources under the guidance of the Product Development Manager to achieve project objectives.
• Manage and prioritize multiple design projects, adhering to deadlines and workflow timelines.
• Contribute to the overall brand aesthetic by assisting with design projects that align with The Paper Store’s marketing and merchandising strategies.
• Work closely with the Marketing team, Design team, Photo Studio, and Buying Department to support product development initiatives.

Job Requirements

• Emerging Senior studying Fashion Design or Fashion Merchandising with a minor in Business or equivalent.
• Emerging Senior studying Fashion Design or Fashion Merchandising with a minor in Business (or equivalent).
• Portfolio required for consideration.
• Proficient in Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator; comfortable designing for both Hardlines and Softlines products. Experience with ProCreate and PointCarre is a plus!
• Organizational & Time Management: Strong ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Strong communication skills to present concepts, secure buy-in, and work collaboratively across teams.
• A self-starter with a positive, flexible, and energetic attitude who thrives with minimal direction.
• Maintains a polished presentation in attire, demeanor, and communication.
• Ability to work in the Acton, MA office three to five days a week.

The Paper Store is an equal-opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, age, veteran status, or any other classification protected by state, local or federal law.