Sr. Materials Developer - Footwear

Job Title: Sr. Materials Developer - HOKA Footwear

Reports to: Sr Mgr, Materials Development HOKA Footwear

Location: Portland, OR - Hybrid

As the Senior Materials Developer for HOKA Footwear, you’ll be at the forefront of innovation, driving the creation and implementation of advanced materials that define the future of performance footwear. You’ll collaborate with design, product, and sourcing teams to deliver materials that meet technical, aesthetic, and sustainability standards. This hands‑on role is perfect for someone who thrives on solving complex challenges, leading material projects from concept to commercialization, and mentoring junior team members.

Your expertise will help shape the next generation of HOKA products, ensuring every step our customers take is supported by the best in material science.

• Lead the development of advanced materials for performance footwear, ensuring alignment with product goals and timelines
• Drive in‑line innovation by identifying and incorporating new technologies, machines, and sustainable materials
• Partner with material design to advance key seasonal material strategies through concepting, research, development, and vendor collaboration
• Serve as the go‑to expert for materials, providing guidance throughout all stages of product creation
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with design, development, engineering, innovation, and product management to identify optimal material usage
• Lead vendor communication and leverage deep understanding of supplier capabilities
• Execute and drive material development deadlines to support seasonal product calendars, ensuring timely commercialization
• Anticipate and resolve material‑related challenges, providing alternative solutions that maintain product integrity and timelines
• Advance opportunities for new and approved materials that meet performance, aesthetic, sustainability, cost, and sourcing needs
• Create and update preliminary material data in product lifecycle management systems for on‑time CAD handoffs
• Provide technical mentorship and guidance to junior team members
• Partner with sourcing and procurement to ensure visibility to concerns or issues during the product creation cycle
• Interpret material test results to ensure materials meet HOKA’s performance, durability, and aesthetic standards

• Bachelor’s degree in Textile Science/Development, Textile Engineering, or related field;
  Master’s degree is a plus
• 8+ years of relevant experience in footwear product creation, material development, engineering, or science
• Extensive knowledge of footwear materials and processes, including knits, wovens, non‑wovens, leather, synthetics, manufacturing, test methods, and post‑processing
• Proven experience working with global supplier partners and cross‑functional product teams
• Deep understanding of footwear product creation and material manufacturing
• Track record of developing advanced performance materials and managing material development projects
• Intermediate to advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite (Excel, Illustrator, Office, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Highly organized, detail‑oriented, and self‑motivated with strong follow‑through
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and ability to address technical material challenges
• Strong communication skills and ability to work cross‑functionally
• Ability to manage competing priorities and tight deadlines
• Ability to interpret design intent and provide material recommendations
• Awareness of industry insights and trends
• Willingness to travel up to 20% domestically and internationally

• Competitive Pay and Bonuses – a variety of programs to foster career development, reward success and show our employees how valued they are
• Financial Planning and wellbeing – financial plans to protect income, cover expenses and invest in the future
• Time away from work – support for health, family, or personal recharge
• Extras, discounts and perks – generous discounts and community programs
• Growth and Development – extensive opportunities and support for personal and professional growth
• Health and Wellness – comprehensive programs and offerings to support a healthy lifestyle

Individual…