About the Role:
We are seeking a knowledgeable, detail-oriented Fabric Sourcing Specialist to take ownership of sourcing and quality assurance for our textile and bedding product lines. This position involves far more than simply finding suppliers; you will manage the journey from initial supplier identification through sample evaluation, specification negotiation, and production handoff. If you have strong technical knowledge of fabrics, experience working with Chinese suppliers, and enjoy ensuring products meet the highest quality standards, you will thrive in this role.
Key Responsibilities:
Supplier Sourcing & Negotiation:
* Identify and vet fabric suppliers using platforms like 1688 and Alibaba.
* Request and evaluate quotations for bedding materials, including sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers, and related textile products.
* Communicate technical specifications clearly to suppliers, including thread count, weave type, GSM, fiber composition, shrinkage tolerance, and finishing treatments.
* Negotiate pricing, MOQs, and lead times while maintaining quality standards.
Sample Management & Quality Testing:
* Coordinate sample requests and track shipping timelines.
* Physically evaluate fabric samples for hand feel, weight, weave consistency, color accuracy, and finish quality.
* Document sample evaluations with detailed notes and photos.
* Identify quality issues early and communicate technical counter-questions back to suppliers.
Collaboration & Pipeline Ownership:
* Work closely with the Product Research team to translate product specs into sourcing requirements.
* Provide input on manufacturing feasibility and constraints.
* Maintain organized records in Google Sheets and ClickUp with transparent status updates.
* Adhere strictly to our internal standardized sourcing workflow; this process is central to how we operate and is continuously optimized. Independent or alternative tracking systems outside the approved framework are not allowed.
Qualifications:
Must-Haves:
* 2+ years of experience sourcing textiles or fabrics for bedding, home textiles, apparel, or similar categories.
* Strong technical knowledge of fabric specifications, including thread count, weave types (percale, sateen, twill), GSM, fiber compositions, shrinkage rates, and finishing processes.
* Experience working directly with Chinese suppliers and using sourcing platforms like 1688 or Alibaba.
* Hands-on sample evaluation skills, with the ability to assess fabric quality by touch and visual inspection.
* Strong written communication skills for supplier correspondence and internal documentation.
* Proficiency in Google Sheets for tracking quotes, samples, and supplier data.
* Mandarin Chinese proficiency (written) for direct supplier communication, strongly preferred.
* Experience using AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, etc., to assist with research, communication, and productivity.
Nice to Have:
* Prior experience sourcing for Amazon FBA or e-commerce private label brands.
* Knowledge of textile certifications (OEKO-TEX, GOTS) and compliance requirements.
* Familiarity with ClickUp, Notion, or similar project management tools.
* Background in textile quality control or manufacturing.
What Success Looks Like:
* Consistent delivery of quality-verified samples that meet specifications.
* A sourcing pipeline that moves smoothly from quotes through sample approval.
* Well-organized documentation across every stage of the sourcing process.
* Active contributions to improving internal tools, templates, and sourcing SOPs.
