Materials Designer

Lead Footwear Materials Designer – Jordan Kids & Core Footwear

We are seeking an experienced Lead Footwear Materials Designer to join the Jordan Kids + Core Footwear Design team. This role will focus on creating innovative material concepts and developments for Jordan footwear products while driving consumer-relevant storytelling, material innovation, and product excellence. The ideal candidate will bring extensive footwear materials, footwear design, or product design experience with a strong understanding of leather-based constructions, material selection, consumer trends, and footwear product creation.

This individual will collaborate closely with cross-functional design, development, merchandising, and product management teams to shape the future of Jordan Kids and Core Footwear products.

Team Information

• Jordan Brand – Kids & Core Footwear
• Cross-functional partnership with Product Design, Color Design, Graphic Design, Material Development, Product Management, and Merchandising teams
• Reports to the Design Director, Color + Materials Kids + Core, Jordan Brand
• Maternity Leave Coverage

Key Responsibilities

• Create innovative material concepts and developments for Jordan Kids + Core Footwear.
• Develop seasonal material narratives and storytelling that connect emotionally with consumers.
• Research and interpret consumer insights, trends, and cultural influences to drive material innovation.
• Partner with cross-functional teams throughout the footwear product creation process.
• Elevate existing materials and explore new technologies and methods of make.
• Present design concepts, material stories, and seasonal insights to stakeholders.
• Translate consumer knowledge and market insights into compelling product solutions.
• Support sustainable material innovation and manufacturing initiatives.
• Drive product excellence while maintaining alignment with Jordan Brand vision and consumer expectations.

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in Footwear Design, Footwear Materials Design, or Product Design.
• Strong footwear industry experience is required.
• Deep understanding of footwear materials, specifically leather constructions and material applications over knit-based solutions.
• Experience designing and developing innovative footwear products.
• Strong understanding of form, color, materials, consumer trends, and product storytelling.
• Ability to translate consumer insights into product solutions and narratives.
• Experience presenting concepts and creative ideas to diverse audiences.
• Strong collaboration and cross-functional communication skills.
• Demonstrated passion for design and innovation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Design, Art, or a related field highly preferred.
• Previous client experience is required.
• Experience building 3D samples and physical mockups.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes and footwear materials.
• Experience with sustainable design and manufacturing practices.
• Ability to create accurate 2D technical drawings and tech packs.
• Cobbling, prototyping, or footwear construction experience is a plus.
• Experience with 3D design programs is a plus.

Software Requirements

• Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign)
• Aurora (Required)
• Keynote, PowerPoint, Acrobat

Soft Skills

• Strong creative problem-solving abilities.
• High level of ownership, resilience, and determination.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and collaborative environment.
• Strong presentation and communication skills.
• Professional references are highly valued.

Important Notes

• Previous Client experience is mandatory.
• Local Portland-area candidates only.
• This is a footwear-focused role; apparel-focused candidates will not be considered.
• Candidates should demonstrate strong footwear material expertise with an emphasis on leather construction and footwear product creation.

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