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Gamakatsu is a globally recognized leader in premium fishing hooks and gear, trusted by anglers for precision, innovation, and performance. As part of our continued growth, we are seeking a dynamic and professional team member who is eager to learn and grow within our sales organization.
Product Development Specialist
Location: Fife, WA
Department: Product Development
Employment Type: Full-Time in person position, not remote.
We are seeking a Product Development Specialist with deep expertise in fishing to
help drive innovation and product excellence. This role blends hands-on fishing
knowledge with creative product development, contributing to the design and refinement
of gear that meets the high standards of the fishing community.
Key Responsibilities:
- Collaborate with design and engineering teams to develop new products tailored
to the fishing market. - Provide expert insights into fishing techniques, gear preferences, and market
trends. - Participate in product concepting, prototyping, and field testing.
- Offer feedback on product performance and usability based on real-world fishing
experience. - Support cross-functional efforts including marketing, sales, and customer
feedback loops. - Responsible for development and adherence to project and department budgets.
- Responsible for effective leadership of all product development projects from
concept to launch, as well as special projects with urgent deadlines. - Responsible for vendor management to oversee product cost and quality.
- Communicate with factory contacts regarding new products and product pricing
negotiations.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Strong background in fishing, with firsthand experience in competitive or
recreational angling. - Familiarity with product design software. (preferred but not required).
- Ability to translate fishing expertise into product features and improvements.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
- Creative mindset with attention to detail and a passion for innovation.
- Problem solver with a track record of developing products from concept to market launch.
- Solid knowledge of category management, product development, marketing, and sales principles.
- Possess strong planning skills as well as analytical, problem solving, strategic thinking, and project management.
- Ability to travel as required, including outside the US.
- Minimum 2 years of experience in the fishing industry.
Bonus Skills:
- Experience in product design, engineering, or outdoor sporting goods.
- Knowledge of fishing gear manufacturing processes and materials.
Work Hours:
- This is a regular, benefits-eligible position with normal office hours.
- Occasional evening and/or weekend hours may be required.
Salary Range:
- Commensurate with experience.
Assistant Manager
Location: Fife, WA
Department: Sales
Employment Type: Full-Time in person position, not remote.
Position Overview:
The Assistant Sales Manager will support the sales team in day-to-day operations, customer engagement, and travel-based sales activities. This role is designed as a growth opportunity, with the intention of training the right candidate to eventually take over key sales responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist in managing customer accounts, preparing sales materials, and coordinating meetings.
- Represent Gamakatsu USA professionally at trade shows, customer visits and product demonstrations.
- Build strong relationships with customers, distributors, and internal teams.
- Learn and understand our product line, sales strategies, and market positioning.
- Participate in strategic planning and contribute to sales growth initiatives.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Exceptional selling, communication and negotiating skills.
- Professional demeanor and ability to represent the brand with integrity.
- Interest in long-term career growth within sales and business development.
- Self-motivated, organized, and adaptable to fast-paced environments.
- Strong written communication skills (primarily via email). Marketing writing skills a plus.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Windows, Word and Excel.
- Minimum 2 years of experience in the fishing industry.
Bonus Skills:
- Experience in sales, customer service, or account management.
- Familiarity with the fishing industry or outdoor sporting goods.
Work Hours:
- This is a regular, benefits-eligible position with normal office hours.
- Occasional evening and/or weekend hours may be required.
Salary Range:
- Commensurate with experience.