At YETI, we believe that time spent outdoors matters more than ever and our gear can make that time extraordinary. When you work here, you’ll have the opportunity to create exceptional, meaningful work and problem solve with innovative team members by your side. Together, you’ll help our customers get the high-quality gear they need to make the most of their adventures. We are BUILT FOR THE WILD™.
The Sample Sewer partners with Design and Product Development teams to construct high-fidelity sew samples that support product validation and concept testing. This role applies strong foundational technical knowledge and established procedures to ensure samples meet YETI’s brand standards, are delivered on schedule, and are ready for production handoff following proof-of-concept approval. The Sample Sewer regularly resolves non-routine issues, recommends improvements to existing processes, and contributes to cross-functional collaboration.
Key Responsibilities
• Collaborate with the Sample Floor Manager, Design, and Product Development teams to coordinate sample production, clarify design intent, and meet project milestones. Participate in daily stand-ups, review sample packages, provide input on construction feasibility, and adjust workflows based on evolving design requirements.
• Maintain continuous communication with U.S.-based developers to align on design specifications, troubleshoot construction challenges, and share insights from sample iterations. This partnership supports consistency across geographies and a smooth transition from concept to production.
• Interpret 2D sample packages and apply advanced technical sewing skills to construct prototypes that support the softgoods development process.
• Provide clear, actionable feedback to Design and Development teams to support design execution and improve manufacturability. Anticipate potential issues and recommend solutions based on past experience.
• Reverse-engineer samples and document supplemental instructions to support efficient production processes.
• Apply LEAN principles to reduce waste and improve workflow efficiency.
• Inspect own work to ensure adherence to quality and construction standards. Identify and resolve non-routine issues independently.
• Partner with Product Developers to troubleshoot construction or patterning issues, offering recommendations to improve sample quality and production readiness.
• Deliver assigned projects within established timelines and quality expectations, proactively managing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Oversee the handoff of finished samples and sample packages to Tier 1 suppliers for initial prototype development, ensuring clarity and completeness of documentation.
• Provide labor and material cost estimates for each prototype to support cost tracking across new development projects.
Qualifications
• Greater than 2 years of experience in bag/luggage sample sewing and sample development processes.
• Demonstrated ability to follow established guidelines and precedents while identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Strong general knowledge of procedures and activities within the sample development area.
• Professional and respectful communication style; able to convey information concisely and solicit feedback to understand team needs.
• Ability to communicate sewing processes and sample construction details to U.S. counterparts and Tier 1 teams.
• Knowledge of YETI production procedures and quality standards.
• Strong attention to detail, time management, and ability to shift priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Comfortable working under pressure and meeting tight deadlines.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
• Indoor work setting with occasional exposure to dust, noise, and bright lighting.
• Frequent sitting or standing; occasional lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Regular use of sewing machines and hand tools.
This position is based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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Benefits & Perks:
Click here to learn about the benefits and perks we offer at YETI.
YETI is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Our commitment to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture is at the center of everything we do for our employees. We embrace all applicants looking to bring their authentic selves to YETI and contribute to our mission of keeping the wild WILD. Find out more about our commitment to DE&I at yeti.com/esg.html.
All applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws.
YETI welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. If you require accommodation in order to apply for a job, please contact us at accommodationrequest@yeti.com.