Product Development Manager

Location: Durham, NC (On-site)
Department: Product Development
Reports to: Head of Product Development
Employment Type: Full-Time

To Apply

To apply directly to this role, please email jess@mycarpe.com your non-ChatGPT paragraph explaining why you believe you would be the best fit for this role. Applying via email is the only way to be considered.

About Carpe

Carpe is the fastest-growing deodorant brand in the US. Our team is composed of ~25 insanely smart people working together in person in downtown Durham, NC. Our office is rather open with many private niches, and our energy level is HIGH.

We build products that work. That means solving real problems for consumers and delivering consistent, high-performance products at scale.

The Role

We’re looking for a high-ownership product development leader who enjoys getting things done and taking products from idea to launch. In this role, you’ll have the opportunity to work with and learn from one of the best product developers in the world. 

We’re growing quickly across retail and DTC, which means multiple launches, variations, and workstreams happening at once. This role is about stepping into that environment and taking ownership of product launches.

You’ll own the day-to-day execution of product development. That includes everything from driving timelines and solving problems to handling the detailed work required to get a product across the finish line. No part of the process is “below” this role - owning the outcome means owning the details.

You’ll work closely with the Head of Product Development but operate with a high degree of autonomy. This is a build-and-own role where you take a goal and figure out how to execute it. 

The work spans both execution and problem solving. Some days that looks like coordinating samples and tracking deliverables, other days it’s navigating delays, solving issues with partners, or making sure projects stay on track.

You’ll be managing multiple projects at once with competing timelines and dependencies, so strong prioritization and the ability to move forward without perfect information are important.

This role has a direct impact on how quickly and effectively we launch new products, expand our portfolio, and support key business initiatives.

It’s best suited for someone who thrives on ownership, moves with urgency, and is comfortable stepping in and running projects independently from day one.

What You’ll Do

Project Execution

• Own and execute product development projects from concept through launch
• Build and manage timelines across multiple workstreams
• Drive day-to-day coordination with contract manufacturers, labs, and external partners
• Ensure all deliverables are completed on time and nothing stalls or slips
• Push projects through final stages and close the last 10% required for launch

Product Lifecycle Ownership

• Drive ongoing product work including line extensions, scent variations, packaging updates, and retail-driven needs
• Own brand/product maintenance including artwork and claims updates, annual product reviews (APR), and keeping products accurate and compliant
• Executing cost-saving, business continuity, alternative sourcing workstreams 
• Ensure all product changes are executed accurately and efficiently
• Support retail-specific requirements and ensure products meet partner expectations

Technical & Testing Execution

• Coordinate and execute clinical, consumer, and internal testing programs
• Own product technical files and ensure all documentation is complete, accurate, and up to date
• Conduct light lab work when required, including basic testing, small-scale formulation, and lab sampling support

Problem Solving & Ownership

• Identify issues early and develop practical solutions in real time
• Navigate ambiguity and move projects forward without waiting for direction
• Take ownership of goals and deadlines and determine how to execute against them
• Solve problems that do not have predefined processes or clear answers

Who You Are

• 4–8+ years of experience in product development, technical project management, or similar roles in CPG, personal care, or related industries
• High-ownership operator who is organized, proactive, and comfortable managing multiple complex workstreams simultaneously
• Strong project management skills with the ability to drive timelines and deliver results
• Independent thinker who solves problems and moves work forward without needing constant direction
• Comfortable working directly with contract manufacturers and external partners
• Detail-oriented with strong follow-through and accountability
• Able to balance speed and quality in a fast-paced environment
• ALL OF THE ABOVE IS OPTIONAL IF YOU PROVE TO US YOU’RE MORE QUALIFIED VIA OTHER MEANS

Bonus If You Have

• Experience in high-growth or startup environments
• Experience working with contract manufacturers
• Experience managing retail + DTC SKU complexity

What You’ll Get

• Direct exposure to and partnership with Product leadership
• Opportunity to own product execution and help build how product development operates as the company scales
• Competitive salary based on experience and level
• Health, vision, and dental coverage
• Flexible PTO
• A front-row seat to the growth of one of the most disruptive brands in body care

To Apply

To apply directly to this role, please email jess@mycarpe.com your non-ChatGPT paragraph explaining why you believe you would be the best fit for this role. Applying via email is the only way to be considered.

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