Lead Footwear Materials Developer in Beaverton, Oregon - #71845 | VanderHouwen

Description

Job Id: 71845

Lead Footwear Materials Developer
Our client is seeking a Lead Footwear Materials Developer to support a fast-paced footwear product creation team focused on delivering innovative materials solutions across multiple product categories. This role is ideal for a highly collaborative materials expert who thrives in a quick-turn development environment, balancing technical expertise with strong communication and problem-solving skills. The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge of footwear materials, the ability to translate design intent into scalable manufacturing solutions, and the leadership skills to guide cross-functional teams toward successful product execution.

This role is a hybrid model in Beaverton, Oregon.

Lead Footwear Materials Developer Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of footwear materials from concept through commercialization, ensuring readiness for manufacturing and on-time delivery.
• Evaluate and sample a wide range of materials to determine the best technical and aesthetic solutions across multiple footwear projects and categories.
• Partner closely with design, product development, product management, and operations teams to align materials with performance, cost, sustainability, and manufacturing goals.
• Serve as the primary liaison with material suppliers and vendors, coordinating technical specifications, pricing, quality standards, and development timelines.
• Monitor industry trends, new technologies, and material innovations to inform product strategies and guide material selection decisions.
• Mentor and support junior team members while contributing expertise to cross-functional initiatives and development best practices.

Lead Footwear Materials Developer Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional experience in footwear materials development or a closely related product development discipline.
• Demonstrated expertise working with a variety of footwear materials such as textiles, leathers, synthetics, trims, and other performance components.
• Proven ability to translate design concepts into materials and constructions that support large-scale manufacturing and commercialization.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills with experience working across design, development, and vendor partner teams.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting tight timelines in a fast-paced product development environment.
• Portfolio required demonstrating a diverse range of materials work, including examples that highlight manufacturability and the transition from concept to production.

Compensation: Up to $37.33/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.

#LI-Hybrid