Overview
Salary: $45-50 Hourly up to $50.00/hr 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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Skill
May 23, 2026