Materials Designer (Footwear) in Los Angeles, California - #71637 | VanderHouwen

Description

Job Id: 71637

Materials Designer (Footwear)
Our client is seeking a highly organized and creatively driven Materials Designer (Footwear) who brings deep expertise across performance and lifestyle product. This individual blends strong artistic vision with technical fluency, partnering cross-functionally to develop innovative, commercially viable material solutions. The ideal candidate thrives in both structured enterprise environments and fast-moving, entrepreneurial settings.

This role is a hybrid model in Los Angeles, California

Materials Designer (Footwear) Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of advanced footwear and apparel materials for performance and lifestyle categories, ensuring aesthetic excellence and functional integrity.
• Research, conceptualize, and prototype material solutions that align with product briefs, manufacturing capabilities, and sustainability objectives.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional partners including color, product design, development, and sourcing teams to integrate materials seamlessly into final product designs.
• Evaluate vendor submissions, conduct material testing for durability and performance, and ensure quality standards are consistently met.
• Maintain and manage detailed material databases and documentation across multiple platforms (e.g., PLM systems, digital collaboration tools, Excel), ensuring accuracy and accessibility of records.
• Create and refine development briefs to support new material innovations and seasonal initiatives.
• Stay current on emerging material technologies, sustainability advancements, and industry trends to inform forward-thinking design decisions.

Materials Designer (Footwear) Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 5 years of directly relevant experience in footwear and/or apparel materials design.
• Advanced knowledge of footwear and apparel materials across both performance and lifestyle product lines.
• Strong proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, with the ability to translate concepts into production-ready material presentations.
• Experience working within material databases and digital tools (e.g., Excel, Microsoft Office Suite, collaborative platforms) with high attention to detail and organization.
• Demonstrated ability to balance creative exploration with technical feasibility, manufacturing considerations, and cost awareness.
• Strong communication skills with a collaborative mindset and comfort presenting to cross-functional stakeholders.
• Experience within large global brands, fast-fashion environments, or start-up settings is highly valued.

Compensation: Up to $54/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