Material Development Manager

Polaris Inc.; Rigby (ID); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Polaris Inc. is searching for a Materials Development Manager to lead the materials strategy and execution across various product lines in Rigby, ID. This role combines leadership and technical expertise to innovate and enhance performance in technical apparel.

The ideal candidate will have over 7 years of experience in materials development, a Bachelor's degree in related fields, and strong skills in managing supplier networks. The position allows for a hybrid work schedule with on-site responsibilities three days a week.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in materials or textile development for technical products.
• Experience in technical outerwear required; motorcycle and snowmobile apparel preferred.
• Expertise in waterproof/breathable fabrics, insulation technology, and protective textiles.
• Strong experience managing global supplier networks and strategic mill partnerships.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of 2 and drive the material development strategy.
• Oversee the development and implementation of new materials.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external suppliers for innovation.

Skills

Leadership

Collaboration

Technical / Functional Expertise

Education

Bachelor's degree in Textile Development, Materials Engineering, or related fields

Job description

Position Overview

As a Materials Development Manager at Teton Outfitters, a Polaris Inc. company, you will lead the strategy, direction, and execution of materials development across Klim and 509 product lines. You will guide the evolution of the materials function to deliver high-performance, innovative solutions aligned with brand, product, and business objectives. This role combines technical expertise with team leadership responsibilities for setting priorities, developing team capabilities, and driving cross-functional alignment. You will partner closely with internal teams and external suppliers to support long-term innovation and scalability. This is a compelling opportunity to shape material strategy and influence product performance across globally recognized technical apparel brands.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead a team of 2 while defining and driving the material development strategy aligned to brand vision, product roadmaps, and business goals.
• Lead and develop the materials team through hiring, coaching, performance management, and capability building.
• Establish priorities and manage workloads across seasonal calendars to ensure timely execution and delivery.
• Oversee the development and implementation of new materials, ensuring performance, durability, quality, and cost objectives are achieved.
• Own and advance the material innovation pipeline by identifying new technologies, materials, and supplier capabilities.
• Build and manage strategic supplier relationships, including mills and development partners, to support innovation and scalability.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Design, Product Development, Sourcing, and Operations to align material direction and product integration.
• Oversee material testing standards and validation processes to ensure consistency, compliance, and performance expectations.
• Drive continuous improvement of material development processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and speed to market.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), using data to inform decisions and improve outcomes.
• Identify and mitigate risks related to materials, suppliers, and development timelines.
• Oversee material library strategy and infrastructure to support current development and future innovation.

Desired Competencies

• Leadership: You inspire, guide, and empower others to achieve their best by setting clear direction, fostering trust, and creating an environment where people feel supported, motivated, and accountable for delivering results.
• Collaboration: You work effectively with others across functions and levels, contributing to shared goals while respecting different perspectives.
• Technical / Functional Expertise: You apply the required technical or professional knowledge to perform your role effectively and stay current within your area of expertise.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; degrees in Textile Development, Materials Engineering, or related fields preferred.
• 7+ years of experience in materials or textile development for technical products.
• Experience in technical outerwear required; experience with motorcycle and snowmobile apparel preferred.
• Expertise in waterproof/breathable fabrics, insulation technology, and protective textiles.
• Strong experience managing global supplier networks and strategic mill partnerships.
• Proven ability to set direction, prioritize work, and manage multiple initiatives across seasonal timelines.
• Strong leadership, communication, and cross‑functional influence skills.
• Advanced analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making capabilities.
• Deep understanding of apparel manufacturing processes, costing, and material application.
• Travel up to 10% (domestic and international).
• This position is not eligible for sponsorship.
• Position is based on-site in Rigby, ID.
• It is a hybrid work environment (Tues, Weds and Thurs are in‑office days).

Teton Outfitters is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will make all employment‑related decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, membership or activity in a local commission, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.