Raw Materials Innovation Manager

Target Target · Retail · Minneapolis, MN

Target is seeking a Raw Materials Innovation Manager to advance the integration of innovative raw materials into Owned Brand products. This role involves identifying, assessing, and prioritizing emerging materials and technologies, administering proof-of-concept initiatives, and partnering cross-functionally to deliver product, cost, quality, and speed-to-market goals. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in a related field and 3+ years of experience in product development, materials innovation, sourcing, or R&D within retail, apparel, or related industries.

What you'd actually do

  1. Advance the integration of innovative raw materials into Owned Brand products, helping to deliver scalable, guest-relevant solutions across categories
  2. Identify, assess, and prioritize emerging materials, technologies, and supplier capabilities to support enterprise priorities and enable differentiated product offerings
  3. Administer proof-of-concept initiatives and pilot programs to test, validate, and scale new materials, reducing risk and enabling successful commercialization
  4. Partner cross-functionally across Product Development, Sourcing, Quality, and external partners to deliver against product, cost, quality, and speed-to-market goals

Skills

Required

  • Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Textiles, Engineering, Product Development, Supply Chain, or related field
  • 3+ years of experience in product development, materials innovation, sourcing, or R&D within retail, apparel, or related industries
  • Innovative mindset with the ability to identify and implement new capabilities and improvements
  • Working knowledge of raw materials and their application in product development (e.g., textiles, polymers, packaging, or similar)
  • Experience working in cross-functional environments and partnering with internal teams and external vendors to deliver business results
  • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to navigate ambiguity and drive progress in a fast-paced environment

What the JD emphasized

  • 3+ years of experience in product development, materials innovation, sourcing, or R&D within retail, apparel, or related industries