Associate Product Designer

Ruffwear•Bend, OR

8d•$70,000 - $80,000•Onsite

About The Position

This individual contributor role is responsible for designing seasonal product concepts to support Ruffwear’s goal of building performance dog gear to enhance and inspire exploration for outdoor adventurers and their human companions. This role works with the Design, Development, Product Line Management, and Product Operations teams from concept to commercialization hand-off to create products that meet the brand's long-range strategy, calendars, design principles, and Go-To-Market goals. Like all roles at Ruffwear, this person has a first-hand understanding of the interactive bond between canines and humans and a passion for the outdoors.

Requirements

At least 1 year of experience in product design, technical design, or fashion design.
Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design, Fashion Design, Product Design or related field.
Strong understanding of design principles with a clear eye for visual aesthetics across product categories.
High degree of curiosity and problem-solving skills.
Self-motivated, with excellent time management and organizational skills.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Understanding and passion for outdoor gear, and knowledge of how technical softgoods can work together to enhance our outdoor adventures.
A keen eye for detail and a passion for creativity.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Proficiency in computer-aided 2D design software (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop) and 3D CAD software (Fusion 360, Solidworks).
Proficiency in Google Workspace and Project Management software (Asana preferred).

Responsibilities

Partner with Director, Product Design to execute the design process for assigned projects, from initial ideation and functional decision-making through design approval.
Ideate and develop innovative solutions using sketching, digital drawings, CAD, and in-house 3D prototyping (cut-and-sew & 3D printing).
Present and communicate design concepts, thinking, and research analysis to the Design and Development teams, applying feedback across multiple iterations.
Conduct and/or direct all necessary testing, including proof-of-concept, fit testing, and size grading, to validate product functionality.
Analyze customer surveys, product reviews, focus groups, and wear testing feedback to inform design decisions.
Create and manage tech packs, artwork documents, and notes for each project, meeting assigned deadlines.
Design new packaging concepts when necessary, including substrate, die line, and on-product placement.
Partner with the Development team on patterning and sampling to ensure manufacturability, review costing to refine designs, and provide final approval for commercialization.
Assist in documentation updates for special make-up and working dog product lines.
Be a curious and continuous steward of the Ruffwear design philosophy and principles.

Benefits

Medical, dental and vision coverage for employees and their dependents
Company-paid employee assistance plan, life insurance, AD&D, and long-term disability
Flexible Time Off for full-time roles, PTO for part-time roles
12 weeks of paid parental, family, and medical leave
SIMPLE IRA retirement plan with 3% employer match
Month of Unleashed Discovery (sabbatical leave) every 5 years
Quarterly Bonus Incentive Opportunity
Discounts on Ruffwear gear and Industry Pro Deals
2 Field Days per year to test product samples with dogs in action
Annual company-wide outings and regular virtual/in-person events
Dog friendly office