ASSOCIATE PRODUCT MANAGER - SPEC OPS TOOLS
Spec Ops Tools – a division of Goods iQ · North Kingstown, RI · Hybrid · Full-Time
$58,000 – $75,000 DOE · Mon–Thu In-Office / Fri Remote
⚠ Important: This is a physical consumer products and durable goods role focused on hand tool product development, product line management, and product marketing. This is not a software, SaaS, IT, or technology product management position. Candidates from software or IT product backgrounds are not a fit for this role. AI-assisted or automated applications will not be considered.
ABOUT SPEC OPS TOOLS
Spec Ops Tools is dedicated to setting a new standard of performance and service by creating rugged and reliable professional-grade hand tools that ignite the passion of elite tradespeople and craftspeople. Our unwavering commitment extends to serving our nation’s heroes — with every product sold, we provide direct financial support to veterans and first responders through our partnerships with the Gary Sinise Foundation, the Green Beret Foundation, and the Navy SEAL Foundation.
We seek exceptional individuals who are not afraid to challenge conventions, tackle significant obstacles, and embody our culture of passion, innovation, service, and commitment. Our focus is on delivering the ultimate customer experience, building profound brand loyalty, and driving sustainable long-term growth. We want the best-of-the-best — those who want to help build a disruptive professional tool brand into a category leader.
ROLE OVERVIEW
The Associate Product Manager supports the Spec Ops Tools product management team and SBU leader in the research, development, and commercialization of innovative hand tool products. This is an entry-level product role for a high-potential candidate who wants to build a career in consumer product development and product marketing.
You will work directly alongside experienced Product Managers, gaining hands-on exposure to the full product lifecycle — from category analysis and product development through retail sell-in and post-launch performance management. The ideal candidate brings 1–2 years of professional experience in sales, marketing, or business and has a genuine passion for physical products, tools, and the trades.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Product Strategy & Roadmap Support
- Supports the development of a 3-year product roadmap for assigned hand tool product lines, including situational assessments, competitive analysis, and portfolio reviews.
- Monitors industry trends and end-user insights to support new product development decisions and launch planning.
- Assists in identifying opportunities to improve product functionality, reduce cost, and address quality issues within the existing portfolio.
Market Research & Customer Insights
- Assists in the design and execution of end-user research initiatives to build deep understanding of product applications and user needs.
- Compiles and synthesizes competitive intelligence and market data to inform product positioning and pricing strategy.
- Develops category and product expertise with the goal of becoming a go-to resource for internal teams and retail partners.
Retail & Commercial Support
- Supports the development and presentation of product and commercial plans to major retail partners including Amazon, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, and other hardware, home center, and industrial distributors.
- Assists in the creation of compelling retail sell-in materials, including presentations, product assortment recommendations, and category analysis.
- Conducts pricing analysis to support competitive positioning and target margin achievement.
- Supports the development and execution of promotional programs across key retail channels and customers, including promotional design, merchandising concepts, pricing strategy, and digital and in-store advertising.
- Supports planning, logistics, and on-site execution of trade shows and industry events, including booth staffing, channel partner engagement, and product presentation to drive brand awareness and commercial relationships with key accounts.
Product Launch & Marketing Content
- Contributes to the development of world-class marketing content for new product launches, including packaging, product imagery, video, merchandising materials, and sales collateral.
- Collaborates cross-functionally with R&D, marketing, sales, supply chain, and customer service teams to support on-time, on-budget product launches.
SKILLS & COMPETENCIES
- Strong analytical and research skills with the ability to translate data into actionable recommendations.
- Creative thinker with an entrepreneurial mindset and genuine curiosity about physical products, tools, and the trades.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to build effective relationships with internal teams, retail partners, and global suppliers.
- Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Bias for action, urgency, and a “roll up your sleeves” work ethic.
- Passion for Spec Ops Tools’ mission to support veterans and first responders.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, Engineering, or related field required. MBA is a plus.
- 1–2 years of professional experience in sales, marketing, business management, or a related field. Consumer products or durable goods exposure preferred.
- This role is focused on physical, durable consumer goods — not software or digital products. Prior experience in hand tools, hardware, sporting goods, or related categories is a strong differentiator.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Teams.
- Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 25% of the time.
- Ability to communicate with international engineering and manufacturing partners during non-standard hours as needed.
- Military experience is a strong plus.
- Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional agile team environment.
WHY SPEC OPS TOOLS
The Opportunity
This isn't a role where you inherit a playbook and execute someone else's vision. You'll help write it. Spec Ops Tools is a young, fast-moving brand competing against giants and winning on grit, product quality, and a mission that actually means something. You'll have real ownership, executive access, and the runway to do the best work of your career while helping build something worth being proud of.
Compensation and Benefits
· Base salary: $58,000 to $78,000 (commensurate with experience)
· Performance bonus eligibility
· 401(k) with company match
· Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
· Generous PTO and parental leave
· Real advancement opportunities — we promote the builders
The Culture
We don't just talk about culture — we protect it. Spec Ops Tools runs on freedom, honesty, and a shared obsession with excellence. We hire owners, not order-takers: people who push boundaries, speak candidly, hold themselves to a higher standard, and then celebrate the wins together.
That standard extends beyond the workplace. Every person on this team understands that what we build here funds real support for veterans and first responders through our foundation partnerships. That's not a marketing line. It's why we show up.
Expect flexible schedules, a casual dress code, team events that actually don't feel forced, and leadership that keeps its door open and its ego in check.
The Workspace
Our Quonset Business Park headquarters in North Kingstown, RI is a modern, thoughtfully designed space built for the way creative teams actually work.
· Comfortable lounges and collaboration breakout areas
· Adjustable sit-stand desks throughout
· Fully stocked gourmet kitchen and yes, beer on tap
· Outdoor quad steps from a scenic bike path that ends at the beach
Job Details
· Role: Associate Product Manager
· Type: Full-Time
· Location: North Kingstown, RI 02852
· Work arrangement: Hybrid — Monday through Thursday in office, Friday remote
· Schedule: Monday through Friday
· Compensation: $58,000 to $75,000 (commensurate with experience)
Spec Ops Tools, a Goods iQ company, is an equal opportunity employer.
Spec Ops Tools and Goods iQ participates in e-Verify as required by law.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $58,000.00 - $78,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Vision insurance
Education:
Willingness to travel:
Work Location: Hybrid remote in North Kingstown, RI 02852
