Footwear Materials Designer in Beaverton, Oregon - #72039 | VanderHouwen

Description

Job Id: 72039

Footwear Materials Designer
Our client is seeking a Footwear Materials Designer to support a high-impact global design team focused on delivering thoughtful, cost-effective materials solutions for everyday consumers. This role blends creativity with commercial awareness, requiring someone who can translate design intent into scalable, value-driven material executions. The ideal candidate brings a strong understanding of consumer needs, collaborative design processes, and the ability to balance aesthetics with performance and cost.

This role is a hybrid model in Beaverton, Oregon.

Footwear Materials Designer Responsibilities

• Partner with cross-functional design teams to develop and execute material concepts aligned to product vision, consumer needs, and business objectives.
• Create and refine material palettes that balance performance, aesthetics, and cost efficiency for high-volume product lines.
• Contribute to storytelling by articulating material choices and their role within the overall product design narrative.
• Support product creation timelines, including seasonal milestones, material selection, and development handoffs.
• Collaborate closely with color, design, and development partners to ensure cohesive and commercially viable product outcomes.
• Evaluate and recommend materials based on durability, cost targets, and manufacturability considerations.
• Maintain awareness of market trends, consumer insights, and material innovations relevant to core product categories.

Footwear Materials Designer Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in footwear materials design or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience designing for kids (e.g., preschool, grade school) and/or value-driven product segments.
• Strong understanding of material cost structures and the ability to design within targeted cost margins.
• Proven ability to communicate design intent and storytelling through materials, including clear articulation of role and collaboration within the design process.
• Portfolio required showcasing relevant materials work, process, and final product execution.
• Proficiency in design tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, CAD, CLO, and/or Viscom.
• Experience working with a range of materials, including genuine and synthetic leathers, with the ability to differentiate performance and application.
• Familiarity with product creation timelines, seasonal gates, and material development processes is preferred.
• Knowledge of material sourcing considerations such as duties, imports, and global supply chain factors is a plus.
• Prior experience within a global footwear or apparel organization is preferred.

Compensation: Up to $42.67/hr. (DOE)

VanderHouwen Contractors Enjoy Exceptional Benefit Perks!
As an eligible contract employee with VanderHouwen, you’ll have access to a full suite of benefits designed with your well-being in mind. Our comprehensive package includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short- and long-term disability, and a matching 401(k) to help secure your future.

Meet VanderHouwen
What kind of recruiter do you see yourself working with? One who prioritizes your best interest, no matter what? VanderHouwen does, and we’re in it for the long game! Our recruiters focus on YOU, building meaningful, long-term relationships while developing a deep understanding of companies’ staffing needs and workplace cultures. This approach helps us find an ideal job match that aligns with your unique career aspirations and goals.

VanderHouwen is an award-winning, Women & Diversity-Owned, WBENC certified professional staffing firm. Founded in 1987, VanderHouwen places experienced professionals across the nation! Our recruitment teams specialize in either Technology and IT, Engineering, Human Resources, or Accounting and Finance career markets. Partner with us to land your next exciting career!

VanderHouwen is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify. VanderHouwen does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state, or federal civil rights laws.

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