Sr. Materials Developer

Deckers Brands • Goleta, CA

6d • $120,000 - $125,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

As a Sr. Materials Developer, you’ll be a driving force in creating trend-forward materials that elevate the aesthetic and quality of UGG footwear. You’ll lead material projects from concept through commercialization, ensuring every material meets design intent, seasonal trends, price targets, sustainability goals, and premium craftsmanship standards. You’ll collaborate closely with design, product development, and sourcing teams, and serve as a subject matter expert for materials, providing technical guidance and creative solutions throughout the product creation process. We celebrate diversity--of your background, your experiences and your unique identity. We are committed to ensuring an inclusive and equitable workplace where all of our employees can Come as They Are. We believe that when we bring our different perspectives to work, we are truly Better Together.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Textile Science, Fashion Design, or related field; Master’s degree is a plus
• 6+ years of relevant experience in footwear material development, preferably in fashion or luxury footwear
• Deep knowledge of fashion footwear materials and processes
• Strong understanding of trend forecasting, color, and material aesthetics
• Experience collaborating with global suppliers and cross-functional teams
• Ability to interpret design intent and translate it into material solutions
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and web-based product life cycle management tools
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive in problem-solving
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines
• Awareness of fashion industry trends and sustainability initiatives
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally

Responsibilities

• Lead development of seasonal materials for fashion footwear, ensuring alignment with design vision, trend direction, and product timelines
• Drive innovation in materials by introducing new textures, finishes, and sustainable options that enhance brand identity
• Partner with design to interpret seasonal mood boards and translate conceptual ideas into viable materials
• Advise on feasibility, cost, and quality during all stages of product creation
• Collaborate cross-functionally with design, development, sourcing, and vendors to ensure materials meet aesthetic, durability, and sustainability standards
• Review and interpret material test results to confirm quality and compliance with brand standards
• Maintain strong vendor relationships and leverage supplier capabilities for premium material execution
• Manage material development timelines and communicate deadlines to ensure on-time commercialization
• Anticipate and resolve material-related challenges, providing creative solutions that maintain design integrity
• Update material data in PLM systems to support accurate CAD handoffs and BOM creation
• Provide technical mentorship and guidance to junior team members

Benefits

• Competitive Pay and Bonuses - We’ve created a variety of competitive compensation programs to foster career development, reward success and to show our employees just how much they’re valued.
• Financial Planning and wellbeing - No matter what financial goals our employees have set, we want to help them get there. Our plans provide powerful ways to protect income, pay for expenses and invest in the future.
• Time away from work - Sometimes we need time away to be with family, focus on our health or just simply recharge. Our plans support our employees’ needs to get out, get healthy and come back stronger than ever.
• Extras, discounts and perks - Being a valued member of the Deckers Brands team means more than just a paycheck. From generous discounts to community-based programs, we offer a variety of cool extras
• Growth and Development - Deckers Brands was built on the idea of pursuing passion. That’s why we offer extensive opportunities and support for personal and professional development.
• Health and Wellness - There’s nothing basic about our comprehensive health and wellness programs and offerings. While at work and at play, we aim to support a healthy lifestyle.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees