Altra: Footwear Developer

Altra Running • Denver, CO

22h • $73,440 - $91,800

About The Position

Altra is seeking a Footwear Developer II to drive the development, engineering, fit, margin adherence, and specifications for new and existing footwear products, from Final Design Review through Commercialization, with a focus on project-based management. This role involves leading footwear product development from seasonal kickoff to confirmation for production. The developer will collaborate with and support cross-functional footwear teams to create best-in-class performance footwear by focusing on best practices, fit and comfort, providing technical solutions, building products at cost, and ensuring product quality. Altra emphasizes a diverse and inclusive running community and a culture of respect, connection, and authenticity.

Requirements

• Self-driven and able to independently manage products through the Development cycle
• Detail oriented with strong project management, organizational, work ethic and teamwork skills
• Strong problem solving and decision-making skills
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
• Demonstrates a complete understanding of the development process from brief hand-off to production
• Demonstrates a complete understanding of tooling processes including 2D/3D CAD and CAM processes
• Demonstrates a complete understanding of materials, pattern engineering, tooling processes and mold construction
• Demonstrates a complete understanding of product categories, materials, and product development cycle
• Contributes to and leads special/long-term projects as they arise
• Competent in Adobe Illustrator, Product Management/Development systems and Microsoft Office program suite
• Overseas and domestic travel will be required on a seasonal basis.
• Irregular working hours should be expected during peak periods when deadlines are present
• 4+ years of experience and professional achievements

Nice To Haves

• Formal education in a related field

Responsibilities

• Manage the development of products from kickoff to production, ensuring adherence to product creation calendar milestones through proactive follow-ups.
• Initiate and lead meetings with product teams during various development phases to review, evaluate, update, and drive decision-making for on-time Buy Ready status and margin goals.
• Confirm final development samples on time and ensure they meet expected quality and accuracy standards.
• Manage retention and storage of samples in coordination with the Commercialization Manager.
• Work with VF Asia Development and factory Costing, Development, Engineering, and Manufacturing teams to identify and leverage potential manufacturing efficiencies for reduced product cost.
• Evaluate and review tooling, including reading 2D blueprints, reviewing 3D CADs, and printing 3D components for physical review prior to approval for opening sample molds.
• Collaborate with VFA Asia development and the Materials Developer to recommend materials and provide technical expertise on constructions that meet Design intent without risking product integrity/quality, while meeting or exceeding gross margin targets.
• Provide the Commercialization Manager and Senior Product Developer product information needed to execute wear testing from early prototypes to final confirmed sample testing.
• Collaborate with the design team on the creation of technical packages (CADs, Shell Patterns, Tooling Artwork, Product Details, etc.) used to build BOMs/specifications in Flex PLM.
• Publish the complete tech pack to factories and VFA development and maintain all records, files, and samples associated with product development.
• Ensure execution of fit through clear analysis, documentation, communication, adherence to fit standards, and partnering with the US Commercialization Manager, VF Asia Development, and Commercialization teams.
• Address quality issues as they arise and collaborate with the US product team, VF Asia Product Supply, Quality Assurance, Marketing, Planning, and Sales to ensure the accuracy and integrity of all product performance claims.
• Perform these and other duties as assigned.
• Attend VF Asia collaborative meetings with Development, Global Material Sourcing, and Global Product Costing.

Benefits

• Extensive development and growth opportunities for your current and future positions
• Competitive compensation package
• Strong benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and 401(k)
• Annual incentive plan, sales incentive, or commission potential

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees