Senior Product Developer, Footwear

Columbia Sportswear Company • Portland, OR

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Product Developer manages the development of new footwear products from initial concept through commercialization, delivering projects and samples according to established timelines and evaluating competitive products to identify opportunities for improvement. Under the direction of the Product Development Manager, this role develops product specifications and coordinates development activities for assigned models, contributing design input on cost, production, and functional components.

The position is hybrid and based at the company headquarters near Portland, Oregon. The current expectation is to work onsite four days per week, although the company may adjust this requirement based on business needs. The role requires travel 15%–25% of the time, primarily between the United States and Asia, within Asian countries, and to manufacturing facilities.

Requirements

• 5–8 years of footwear development experience.
• Thorough knowledge of administrative management and supervisory techniques.
• Proficiency with PC software, including spreadsheets, databases, and word-processing applications.
• Knowledge of the lifestyle footwear industry and conducting business in Asian countries.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing with management, staff, factories, and vendors, including clear communication with people in countries where English is a second language.
• Ability to use tact, sound judgment, and discretion in professional contacts.
• Ability to identify and evaluate problem areas and recommend effective solutions.
• Strong time-management skills to meet challenging objectives and manage a heavy workload.
• Understanding of basic engineering, metric measurements, and blueprints.
• Good color and texture perception to identify potential quality problems and assess footwear salability.
• Ability to travel 15%–25% of the time, primarily between the United States and Asia, within Asian countries, and to manufacturing facilities.
• Strong teamwork, passion for footwear design and development, relationship-building skills, and a willingness to handle a variety of tasks.

Responsibilities

• Develop product specifications and coordinate product development for assigned models from concept through product confirmation under the direction of the Product Development Manager.
• Provide design-process input on cost, production, and functional componentry.
• Create detailed development plans and timelines for assigned models to ensure samples are delivered to merchandising on schedule.
• Provide regular, detailed progress reports to the Product Development leadership team.
• Communicate with overseas development staff, review progress, and resolve issues.
• Review blueprints, 3D files, and other technical drawings for the accuracy and functionality of mold details.
• Review rapid-prototype parts and molded-component models to support design integrity and functionality.
• Maintain current files for assigned models being developed or produced overseas, including sample request forms, specifications, specification change notices, blueprints, and related information.
• Collaborate with design and merchandising teams to identify materials, components, and construction options for each project.
• Keep the development team informed about new materials, components, and procedures available in overseas factories.
• Provide footwear personnel with information and assistance concerning sample and shoe-making processes, materials, color, and style.
• Research and network with suppliers and vendors to source innovative materials.
• Maintain knowledge of competitors' products.
• Maintain positive communication with management, staff, and other departments to support information flow and efficient organizational operations.
• Mentor junior staff by assessing their work and supporting their professional development.

Benefits

• 401(k) plan with a generous company match.
• Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability benefits.
• Flexible spending accounts and a health savings account.
• Voluntary benefits, including accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and legal services.
• Free, confidential, 24/7/365 counseling through EAP+.
• Wellness benefits.
• Employee discounts.
• Time-off program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed