Lead Footwear Materials Designer in Beaverton, Oregon - #72477 | VanderHouwen

Description

Job Id: 72477

Lead Footwear Materials Designer
Our client is seeking a Lead Footwear Materials Designer to help shape the next generation of innovative performance footwear, partnering closely with cross-functional teams to bring concept-driven products to life from early ideation through execution. This is an exciting opportunity for a highly creative and technically skilled designer who thrives in collaborative environments, enjoys solving complex design challenges, and brings a strong understanding of materials, storytelling, and consumer-driven product creation. The ideal candidate is a self-directed designer with a passion for performance product, innovation, and pushing material possibilities forward.

This role is a hybrid model in Beaverton, Oregon.

Lead Footwear Materials Designer Responsibilities

• Lead the material design process for innovative footwear concepts, translating creative direction into compelling material solutions that balance performance, function, and visual impact.
• Develop and execute material concepts for weather-adapted and performance-focused footwear, with an emphasis on durability, breathability, protection, and consumer relevance.
• Partner closely with cross-functional teams including product design, color, graphics, development, engineering, and related stakeholders to ensure alignment throughout the product creation process.
• Research, explore, and propose new material applications, finishes, and construction methods that elevate both product performance and aesthetic storytelling.
• Create high-quality visual presentations, design documentation, and concept renderings using Adobe Creative Suite and digital design tools.
• Build mockups, prototypes, and material studies to support concept validation and design evolution.
• Translate consumer insights, market trends, and performance needs into innovative material strategies and product narratives.
• Present design concepts clearly and confidently to internal teams, incorporating feedback while maintaining design intent.
• Contribute to a highly collaborative creative environment by helping drive innovation, idea generation, and executional excellence across the footwear design process.

Lead Footwear Materials Designer Qualifications

• 5–7+ years of experience in footwear materials design, textile design, product design, or a closely related field.
• Strong understanding of footwear materials, including technical knowledge of wovens, knits, synthetics, coatings, and performance-driven material applications.
• Highly proficient in Adobe Creative Suite, including Illustrator, Photoshop, and related design tools.
• Experience creating 3D renderings, digital concept visualizations, or similar product design assets is strongly preferred.
• Hands-on experience with prototyping, material sampling, mockups, or concept model creation is highly desirable.
• Previous experience within footwear, performance product, outdoor gear, or a related consumer product environment is strongly preferred.
• Ability to work independently with minimal oversight while successfully managing priorities in a fast-paced creative environment.
• Strong communication, presentation, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Passion for sports, outdoor performance, or technical product innovation is highly valued.
• Bachelor’s degree in design, textiles, industrial design, product design, or a related discipline is preferred, but equivalent professional experience will be considered.
• A relevant design portfolio showcasing applicable product or material design work is required for consideration.

Compensation: Up to $50/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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