Horizon Hobby is hiring a Product Developer to join our Athearn team. In this role, you will manage the research, development, and introduction of products that maximize sales, uphold the Athearn brand promise, and maintain our strategic schedule. You'll coordinate across functional teams and vendors to bring high-quality model railroading products to market.
What You'll Do
- Ensure new products deliver the value and quality expected by Athearn customers.
- Coordinate research, concept, design, testing, and development of new products with internal teams and vendors.
- Monitor Athearn and competitor products to maintain a competitive advantage and fill market gaps.
- Manage the product portfolio to optimize customer choice and brand assortment.
- Assist in developing manufacturing information and work with manufacturers to secure production capacity.
- Maintain effective vendor communication to keep product development on schedule.
- Provide training for sales, service, and new product releases as needed.
- Attend trade shows, hobby events, and travel domestically or overseas as required (less than 5%).
- Manage all project timelines to ensure on-time market releases.
- Effectively communicate and document product development progress and challenges.
- Attend meetings related to product development, marketing, or brand management.
What We're Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience required.
- High school diploma required.
- Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to multi-task and prioritize work effectively.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills across all organizational levels, vendors, and customers.
- Proficiency with computers and knowledge of Excel, Word, and Outlook.
- Knowledge of various facets of model railroading.
- Accurate color identification and willingness to pass a color hue test.
- Knowledge of model railroading tools including a test track with DC and DCC controls; PCB knowledge and understanding; troubleshooting of electronics.
Nice to Have
- Experience in a product development setting, ideally in model railroading or toys.
- In-depth knowledge of the model railroad industry, hands-on experience using products, and knowledge of prototypes.
- Experience with CAD programs and files.
- Experience working with Adobe Illustrator.
Technical Stack
- Excel, Word, Outlook
- CAD programs
- Adobe Illustrator
Team & Environment
This position reports into our Champaign, IL location.
Benefits & Compensation
- Compensation: $60,000-$70,000 annually.
- Medical, Dental, Vision insurance.
- HSA and FSA options.
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance.
- Life Insurance and Supplemental Life Insurance.
- 401(k) with a company match.
- Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays.
- Internal Rewards and Discounts on Products.
- Additional coverage options for accident, critical illness, hospital, and pet insurance.
Work Mode
This is a hybrid position based in Champaign, IL.
Horizon Hobby, LLC is an equal opportunity and E-Verify employer.





