Material Performance Technician

Patagonia•San Buenaventura (Ventura), CA

7d•$68,000 - $85,000•Onsite

About The Position

Fabrics, trims, and other raw materials are the foundation of Patagonia products and central to our mission to “save our home planet.” The Material Performance Technician provides hands-on support for material performance testing in the lab, ensuring accurate data collection to support material development, innovation, and quality initiatives. This role is responsible for executing tests, maintaining equipment, organizing samples and data, and prioritizing work to meet deadlines and project needs.

Requirements

High School Diploma required; Associate degree or technical certification in textiles, materials science, or related field preferred. Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent experience
1–3 years of laboratory testing experience.
Familiarity with textile testing standards and industry-standard test methods.
Basic understanding of textile construction and properties to interpret test results.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite and data entry systems.
Strong attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and ability to follow protocols.
Ability to exercise professionalism and deliver results against tight and complex timelines.
Flexible and adaptable to changes in work environment and scope of responsibility.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse teams.
Demonstrates initiative, conscientiousness, and complete follow-through on responsibilities.
Team player attitude; positive energy; alignment with Patagonia’s core values.
Ability to prioritize work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to carry and roll out 20-30 pound rolls of fabric.
Must be able to sit for extended periods of time.
Must be able to stand for extended periods of time, for cutting and testing samples.
Ability to look at a computer screen for extended periods of time.
Ability to maintain a composed and professional demeanor within a flexible and (at times noisy) work environment.
Ability to perform repetitive tasks using a computer mouse and keypad.

Responsibilities

Perform routine and specialized material tests according to ASTM, AATCC, ISO and internal protocols within required timelines.
Prepare material samples for testing; operate lab equipment and ensure proper calibration and maintenance.
Accurately document and organize test results, noting special parameters or unique results.
Consistently track and update materials and test results within the data system; communicate results with Material Performance Engineers and other cross functional partners.
Report test results promptly to appropriate stakeholders.
Maintain cleanliness and organization of the lab environment, including filing samples and reports.
Coordinate shipping of samples to third-party labs and file incoming third-party test reports; ensure timely communication of results.
Write and edit Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and assist in updating test documentation.
Support troubleshooting of test equipment and processes as needed.
Actively participate in the development, utilization, and maintenance of lab equipment, fabric information systems, and process updates to improve efficiency and accuracy.
Prioritize multiple tasks effectively to meet deadlines and shifting project requirements.