Footwear Engineer: Design-to-Production Innovator

Diadora; Caerano di San Marco; On-site; EUR 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Diadora is seeking an experienced Footwear Engineer to bridge Design, Product Development and Production within the Operations department. You will translate concepts into scalable, high-performance products that meet cost and quality targets, from prototype to production launch.

This role emphasizes technical development, industrialization, costing, quality assurance and field support, with travel to production sites (7–8 trips/year) to collaborate with Far East partners.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience in a similar footwear/ sports role.
• Deep knowledge of footwear manufacturing processes and pattern-making techniques.
• Ability to evaluate technical materials and interpret lab test results.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (advanced Excel) and familiarity with PLM systems.
• Native Italian with advanced English for international collaboration.
• Willingness to travel ~7–8 business trips per year (15 days each) to Far East partners.

Responsibilities

• Act as the technical bridge between Design, Product Development, and Production.
• Verify and fine-tune prototypes, analyze last, construction, functionality, and aesthetics.
• Coordinate with teams in the Far East and suppliers on industrialization matters.
• Validate tech packs/spec sheets for production completeness and accuracy.
• Apply Value Engineering to optimize material use and cost differentials.
• Assess project risks and propose alternative technical solutions.
• Verify sample compliance with quality standards and support QC on the line.
• Provide technical support for pro athlete products and customization projects.
• Collaborate on new materials/technologies and validate through tests.

Skills

Italian (native)

English (B2+)

Footwear manufacturing processes

Pattern-making techniques

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Team collaboration

Tools

Excel

PLM

Job description

Diadora is seeking an experienced Footwear Engineer to bridge Design, Product Development and Production within the Operations department. You will translate concepts into scalable, high-performance products that meet cost and quality targets, from prototype to production launch.

This role emphasizes technical development, industrialization, costing, quality assurance and field support, with travel to production sites (7–8 trips/year) to collaborate with Far East partners.