SOREL Senior Product Developer, Women's Footwear

Columbia Sportswear • Portland, OR

12d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Product Developer manages the development of new women's footwear products from initial concept through commercialization, delivering projects and samples according to established timelines. The role evaluates competitive products and supports improvements to the company’s offerings. Working under the direction of the Product Development Manager, the position coordinates development for assigned models and contributes product, cost, production, and functional-component input throughout the process.

This is a hybrid position based at Columbia Sportswear Company’s headquarters near Portland, Oregon. The current expectation is to work onsite four days per week, subject to change at the company’s discretion based on business needs. Travel is required 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 in writing and verbally with management, staff, factories, and vendors, including clear communication with people in countries where English is a second language.
• Use tact, sound judgment, and discretion in professional contacts.
• Ability to identify and evaluate problem areas and recommend effective solutions.
• Exceptional time-management skills and ability to handle challenging objectives and a heavy workload.
• Understanding of basic engineering, metric measurements, and blueprints.
• Good color and texture perception to identify potential quality issues and assess footwear salability.
• Ability to travel 15%–25% of the time, including international travel and visits to manufacturing facilities.
• Strong team-player approach, passion for footwear design and development, relationship-building skills, and willingness to take on varied tasks.

Responsibilities

• Develop product specifications and coordinate development of assigned models from concept through product confirmation under the direction of the Product Development Manager.
• Provide input during design regarding cost, production, and functional componentry.
• Create detailed development plans and target-date timelines to ensure samples reach merchandising on schedule.
• Provide ongoing, 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 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 in development or overseas production, including sample request forms, specifications, change notices, blueprints, and related information.
• Collaborate with design and merchandising teams to identify materials, components, and construction options.
• Provide the development team with current information on 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 build relationships with suppliers and vendors to source innovative materials.
• Stay informed about competitors’ products.
• Maintain positive communication with management, staff, and other departments to support information flow and efficient operations.
• Mentor junior staff by assessing their work and supporting their professional development.
• Travel 15%–25% of the time, primarily between the United States and Asia, within Asian countries, and to manufacturing facilities.

Benefits

• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• 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