Color & Design Operations Associate

Outdoor Research•Seattle, WA

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Color & Design Operations Associate is a critical member of the Outdoor Research Design Team, responsible for supporting and executing the seasonal color development process across apparel and accessories. This role sits at the intersection of creativity, organization, and product execution. While the position begins with ownership of the operational side of seasonal color development, it is a growth pathway for individuals who are passionate about color, visual storytelling, and brand expression. You will be a key partner to Design, Product Development, Materials, and Merchandising teams, ensuring that color information, approvals, tools, and workflows move efficiently throughout the product creation process. Your work will directly impact development timelines, sales readiness, product accuracy, and the overall quality of Outdoor Research's seasonal color execution. As proficiency and trust are established, there will be opportunities to contribute more directly to seasonal palette development, color storytelling, print and pattern exploration, and the evolution of Outdoor Research's visual identity.

Requirements

Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
Ability to manage priorities and deadlines simultaneously.
Excellent follow-through and proactive communication.
Strong aesthetic awareness with a genuine interest in color, brand expression and visual storytelling
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across cross-functional teams.
Comfort working within systems, processes, and detailed information.
Strong presentation and visual communication skills.
Positive attitude, curiosity, and eagerness to learn and grow.
Interest in outdoor, active, and performance product categories.

Nice To Haves

1 to 2 years of experience in color development, apparel design, product creation, or a related field.
Bachelor’s Degree in Apparel Design, Industrial Design, or related field.
Experience with Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop)
Experience working within PLM system is a plus.

Responsibilities

Own and execute the seasonal color development process across apparel and accessories.
Manage color chip ordering, organization, and distribution through color partners and vendors.
Track, communicate, and manage lab dip requests, approvals, and seasonal color timelines.
Maintain seasonal color tools, documentation, and workflow tracking systems.
Ensure accurate communication of color information across Design, Product Development, Materials and Product Management teams.
Maintain color, material and trim information within PLM systems and supporting databases.
Support workbook creation through CAD updates and product accuracy reviews.
Assist in preparing design presentations, seasonal reviews, and team meeting materials.
Manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining exceptional attention to detail and follow-through.
Proactively identify process gaps, timeline risks, and opportunities for improved workflow efficiency.
Support seasonal color research, trend analysis, and inspiration gathering.
Support in the development and organization of seasonal color palettes and stories.
Participate in color reviews and cross-functional discussions throughout the product creation process.
Contribute to seasonal storytelling through color, print and pattern inspiration.
Develop expertise in Outdoor Research's color point of view and brand identity, with opportunities for increased creative contribution over time.