Materials Innovation Developer, PRO – Advanced Concepts

ARC'TERYX•Vancouver, BC

1d•Onsite

About The Position

As the Materials Innovation Developer, PRO – Advanced Concepts, you research, source and develop novel, innovative materials used in industry-leading apparel/equipment for the professional user (guides, search & rescue, special operation forces). You work ahead of the Product Operations calendar on difficult-to-execute material and trim developments, driven by a combination of design-based briefs, insights/foresight, personal expertise and technology-scouting. The role also interfaces with numerous functions: Design, Supply Chain, Global Product/Merchandising, acting as the central source of truth and expertise across the material technologies utilized and emerging in the PRO category. This role is based out of our North Vancouver office and is expected to be performed on-location. The Advanced Concepts team drives breakthrough innovation in snow, trail and climb for the mountain athlete everywhere. Fueled by curiosity, we take a holistic approach to identifying future needs and tangible solutions across advanced materials, products, technologies, and experiences. We are a team of builders, problem solvers and outdoor enthusiasts. Our in-house end-to-end capabilities in research, engineering, design, development, digital and validation allow us to innovate head-to-toe solutions that bring the coast mountain experience to the world. Our unique methodology, mindset of sustainability and fanatic passion for product are at the heart of what we do.

Requirements

Degree in textile engineering, materials science or a related field
4+ years’ experience in material development for military, industrial (incl. aerospace, biomedical), and/or outdoor equipment applications - creating proprietary, exclusive, and bespoke technological solutions for extreme/demanding applications
Experience working with, developing, and commercializing novel functional textile treatments like fire retardancy, water repellency, insect or other biological hazard repellency, wicking, cooling, anti-static and multi-spectral signature management (LWIR, NIR, SWIR, etc.)
Experience working with textile supply chain partners in various geographic regions
Working understanding or knowledge around Trade Agreements Act compliance or similar sourcing restrictions related to specific industries
Ability to create and execute custom material testing protocols, methods, operate apparatus, and analyze/communicate results to non-technical colleagues
Extensive knowledge of textile manufacturing, including spinning, weaving/knitting, finishing, dyeing and printing
Experience researching new and emerging material technology from various industries
Experience using PLM, ERP or other product/BOM creation systems (such as Centric, ENOVIA, SAP, etc.)
Problem-solver with a high degree of self-drive and optimism
Effective and empathetic communicator of complex concepts to a wide range of audiences
Detail-oriented and follow-through on commitments to do what is right, and strive for continuous improvement
Highly flexible and adaptable when faced with ambiguity
Ability to work effectively with diverse teams and cultures (both internally and externally)
Strong organizational skills, with the ability to balance multiple tasks within tight deadlines
Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office
Physical ability to handle small boxes and rolls of fabric, etc.
Passion for getting outside and living it

Responsibilities

Evaluate current and potential future supply chain partners with advanced manufacturing and finishing capabilities
Developing and managing strategic relationships with external innovation partners, suppliers and stakeholders
Develop bespoke and novel protective textiles utilizing the latest in fiber, yarn, knitting/weaving, printing and finishing technologies
Develop innovative material platform technologies
Translate insights from business partners, athletes and professional users into achievable material properties
Envisioning and developing innovative materials in collaboration with Advanced Concepts and Design teams; considering product functionality, aesthetics, sustainability and circularity
Provide knowledge and consultation to cross functional partners on the landscape, limitations, and future possibilities of protective textile technologies.
Collaborating with the Raw Materials, Compliance and Quality teams to ensure innovation research has supply chain relevance and feasibility
Ensuring operational excellence through the implementation and commercialization of materials deliverables against the Go To Market (GTM) calendar dates and gates
Designing, evaluating and reporting on field tests, lab tests and vendor supplied materials data to make decisions through consultation on inclusion or improvements
Collaborating with universities, labs, and other industry organizations to push forward new technologies
Contributing to areas beyond materials, in advanced concept practices and processes throughout development, design and manufacturing
Providing guidance and recommendations to Design and Materials teams on material direction, suitability and innovation, monitoring and assisting with material needs during product creation cycles
Providing materials expertise and recommendations through consultations with various teams, establishing SOP or guidance for technology transfer
Maintaining an up-to-date knowledge of performance and sustainable textile industry trends, continuously building textile expertise and a network of contacts within the industry
Navigating, contributing to and maintaining a robust Intellectual Property (IP) portfolio, proprietary solutions and exclusivity on materials projects in partnership with the Legal team
Partnering with the Innovation Operations team on materials specific resourcing opportunities including funding, academic and internship programs (SR&ED, IRAP, NRC, MITACS and so forth), including registering own hours
Initiating bespoke joint developments with a range of material partnerships, at or beyond Tier 2 level suppliers
Creating and coordinating a cadence of material redesigns and innovations for key product franchises
Transferring technologies developed within the Advanced Concepts team to supply chain partners
Establishing a material-led design process for early adoption of unbriefed innovation opportunities

Benefits

Extended health, dental, and vision coverage
Mental health support
Fertility benefits
Gender-affirming care
24/7 Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
RRSP matching
Eligibility for Arc'teryx Annual Incentive Plan
Access to Employee Stock Purchase program (ESPP) where applicable
Paid time off
Wellness time
No Wasted Day program (dedicated paid days to get outside & explore)
Parental leave top-up
Nesting period for new parents
Professional development opportunities
Arc'teryx Academies (outdoor skill-building events)
Employee Belonging Councils
Access to employee discounts and Pro Deals (exclusive discounted pricing on gear)