Advanced Technologies Engineer II - HOKA Innovation

At Deckers Brands, Together, Every Step is a promise kept that every employee can bring their authentic self, is valued and supported, as a whole person, at work and beyond. Together, Every Step is how we continue to deliver exceptional business results, experience an amazing place to work, and have a positive impact on the communities and world around us.

Job Title: Advanced Technologies Engineer II - HOKA Innovation

Reports to: Principal, Advanced Technologies - HOKA Innovation

Location: Portland, OR (Hybrid)

As an Advanced Technologies Engineer II on the HOKA Innovation team, you’ll be a driving force behind the next generation of performance footwear. You’ll collaborate with a diverse group of innovators, athlete scientists, designers, and brand leaders to create transformative product experiences. Your expertise in materials, engineering, and advanced technologies will help shape the future of HOKA, delivering radical cushioning and propulsion solutions for athletes and consumers worldwide.

We celebrate diversity--of your background, your experiences and your unique identity. We are committed to ensuring an inclusive and equitable workplace where all of our employees can Come as They Are. We believe that when we bring our different perspectives to work, we are truly Better Together.

• Frame and define innovation opportunities for advanced technologies, setting ambitious performance targets that directly address athlete needs and elevate the HOKA brand.
• Lead the development of next-generation underfoot cushioning systems, guiding projects from ideation through prototyping and performance validation.
• Provide expert insight into cutting‑edge materials—such as foams and composite plates—and engineer solutions that push the boundaries of footwear design and function.
• Collaborate across disciplines, partnering with athlete scientists, industrial designers, and global manufacturing teams to bring bold concepts to life.
• Drive proof‑of‑concept engineering, designing and executing systematic studies to validate new cushioning systems against performance, sustainability, and cost metrics.
• Champion sustainability by integrating eco‑conscious materials and processes into innovation projects, setting boundary conditions and targets to minimize environmental impact.
• Build and nurture a network of industry‑leading partners, scouting new vendors and technologies from academia and adjacent industries to keep HOKA at the forefront of innovation.
• Analyze technical drawings, lab results, and prototypes to identify opportunities for breakthrough performance and ensure products deliver transformative experiences.
• Inspire and upskill team members, fostering a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and continuous improvement in technology innovation.

• Hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field, with 5+ years of progressive experience in footwear or a relevant industry.
• Demonstrate a proven track record of leading advanced materials and process innovation, with examples of breakthrough product or technology creation beyond seasonal briefs.
• Possess deep expertise in mechanical engineering, materials selection, and manufacturing processes, with hands‑on experience in prototyping, testing, and optimizing footwear features.
• Thrive in collaborative, cross‑functional environments, communicating effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders across cultures and geographies.
• Approach challenges with an innovative, entrepreneurial mindset—constantly seeking new possibilities, solution spaces, and ways to differentiate products and business models.
• Exhibit strong critical thinking and problem‑solving skills, comfortable navigating ambiguity and adapting plans to dynamic business needs.
• Embrace sustainability, proactively integrating eco‑friendly materials and processes into product development and championing initiatives that reduce environmental impact.
• Motivate and mentor others, bringing positive energy, inclusivity, and a can‑do attitude to project teams, factories, and vendor relationships.
• Stay curious and agile, continuously learning and…