Materials Designer

Overview

Materials Designer (Contract)

Location: Portland, OR (Hybrid – 4 days onsite, 1 day remote)
Duration: ~6 months with potential for extension
Schedule: Standard business hours

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced Materials Designer to help drive innovative material solutions for performance footwear and outdoor-inspired products. This role sits within a highly creative and technical team focused on developing new concepts and pushing the boundaries of material design for all-conditions environments.

You will play a key role in shaping the look, feel, and performance of footwear by exploring advanced materials, collaborating cross-functionally, and contributing to products designed for durability, weather resistance, and comfort.

What You’ll Do

• Design and develop innovative material concepts for performance and outdoor footwear
• Partner closely with product designers, developers, and cross-functional teams to bring concepts to life
• Research and apply new material technologies, finishes, and construction techniques
• Create and present material narratives aligned to product and seasonal direction
• Support the material design process from ideation through prototyping and commercialization
• Contribute to products designed for diverse weather conditions (e.g., breathable, water-resistant, durable)
• Ensure design intent is executed accurately through development and production

What You Bring

• 5–7 years of experience in materials design, footwear, textiles, or a related field
• Strong understanding of materials, including wovens, knits, and performance textiles
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign)
• Experience working on technical or performance products
• Strong communication and collaboration skills across cross-functional teams
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities

Preferred Qualifications

• Footwear design or materials experience strongly preferred
• Experience with outdoor or performance-focused products
• 3D design or rendering experience (e.g., CLO or similar tools)
• Hands-on prototyping or sample-making experience
• Passion for outdoor activities, sport, or performance design
• Experience working with well-known footwear or apparel brands

Who You Are

• A self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
• A creative problem solver with a strong eye for detail and innovation
• Curious, adaptable, and motivated to push design boundaries
• Passionate about blending performance, aesthetics, and functionality

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