Dog Tales Rescue & Sanctuary
Product Research & Development Specialist
Description
Opportunity:
We are seeking a forward-thinking and detail-oriented Product Research & Development Specialist to help create, test, and refine new products that reflect our mission and values. This role involves researching market trends, identifying new opportunities, and working closely with our design and procurement teams to bring meaningful, high-quality items—from apparel to animal care products—to life.
About Dog Tales Rescue & Sanctuary:
Dog Tales is a world-renowned dog rescue and horse sanctuary set on an incredible 50 acres of green fields, rolling hills, and wooded areas in King City, Ontario. Our picturesque location - complete with walking trails, therapy pools, and a grooming spa - is the perfect setting for abused and neglected animals to heal and be rehabilitated while they wait for forever homes. Along with medical care, our team provides all of the love, attention, and training that our rescue animals need to recover from their difficult pasts, so that they can move on to permanent, loving homes, which most do. For the rest, Dog Tales is home for as long as they need it to be.
If you would like to be part of an energetic and compassionate team, where you can make an impact and difference in the lives of countless animals, join us!
The Role:
- Conduct research on product trends, materials, customer preferences, and market demand
- Develop and propose new product ideas that align with Dog Tales’ mission and brand identity
- Collaborate with design, procurement, and marketing teams to move products from concept to production
- Assist in material sourcing, vendor evaluation, and prototype testing
- Analyze product performance and customer feedback to inform future development
- Ensure all products are ethically produced, animal-safe, and environmentally responsible
- Maintain documentation for research findings, testing results, and product development processes
- Stay up-to-date with industry developments, innovation in sustainable materials, and nonprofit product strategies
What You Bring:
- 2+ years of experience in product development, product research, or a related field
- Strong analytical and creative thinking skills
- Excellent research and reporting abilities
- Familiarity with materials, manufacturing processes, and product life cycles
- A passion for animal welfare and alignment with Dog Tales’ mission
- Strong collaboration and communication skills
What We Offer:
We believe in supporting our team with great perks that make work enjoyable and life easier:
- Competitive Salary and Benefits: We offer a competitive salary along with a solid benefits package, including health, vision, and dental coverage to keep you covered.
- Extended Healthcare: In addition to regular health benefits, we provide extra support for your well-being, including mental health resources.
- Free Staff Meals: Enjoy free daily meals while at work, making your day a little more convenient and enjoyable.
- Paid Vacation and Sick Days: Take time to relax or recover with paid vacation and sick days, because work-life balance is important.
- Employee Appreciation Events: We host regular events to celebrate our team and build a positive, fun work environment.
- GRSP: Contribute to a Group Registered Savings Plan to secure your future.
Schedule:
This is a full-time position with a schedule of 8 AM – 5 PM, five days a week, with occasional weekend shifts as needed. Flexibility with working hours is essential.
Dog Tales Rescue & Sanctuary is committed to creating a respectful, accessible, and inclusive work environment. We welcome and encourage applications from individuals with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.
If you require accommodations during the recruitment or interview process, please contact us at info@dogtales.ca.
Please note, this position is onsite. Additionally, reliable access to a car is necessary as there is no public transit near our facility.
We thank all applicants in advance, and only those selected for an interview will be contacted.