Materials Designer

Skill; Beaverton (OR); Hybrid; USD 61,992 - 68,880; Full time

Job summary

Skill is seeking a Materials Designer to develop innovative material solutions for performance footwear. This hybrid role combines 4 days onsite with 1 day remote, ideally suited for someone with 5-7 years of experience in materials design. You will collaborate with product teams to ensure the highest quality in footwear performance and aesthetics.

The ideal candidate should be proficient in Adobe Creative Suite and have a strong understanding of various materials and textiles. Passion for outdoor activities and experience in 3D design and prototyping are advantages.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of experience in materials design or related field.
• Strong understanding of materials, including wovens and knits.
• Experience working on technical or performance products.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop innovative material concepts for performance footwear.
• Research and apply new material technologies and finishes.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and contribute to product design.

Skills

Materials design experience

Adobe Creative Suite proficiency

Collaboration skills

Strong communication skills

Tools

Illustrator

Photoshop

InDesign

Job description

Overview

Placement Type: Temporary

Salary: $45-50 Hourly up to $50.00/hr

Start Date: May 27, 2026

Materials Designer (Contract)

Location: Portland, OR (Hybrid - 4 days onsite, 1 day remote)

Duration: ~6 months with potential for extension

Schedule: Standard business hours

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced Materials Designer to help drive innovative material solutions for performance footwear and outdoor-inspired products. This role sits within a highly creative and technical team focused on developing new concepts and pushing the boundaries of material design for all-conditions environments.

You will play a key role in shaping the look, feel, and performance of footwear by exploring advanced materials, collaborating cross-functionally, and contributing to products designed for durability, weather resistance, and comfort.

What You'll Do

• Design and develop innovative material concepts for performance and outdoor footwear
• Partner closely with product designers, developers, and cross-functional teams to bring concepts to life
• Research and apply new material technologies, finishes, and construction techniques
• Create and present material narratives aligned to product and seasonal direction
• Support the material design process from ideation through prototyping and commercialization
• Contribute to products designed for diverse weather conditions (e.g., breathable, water-resistant, durable)
• Ensure design intent is executed accurately through development and production

What You Bring

• 5-7 years of experience in materials design, footwear, textiles, or a related field
• Strong understanding of materials, including wovens, knits, and performance textiles
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign)
• Experience working on technical or performance products
• Strong communication and collaboration skills across cross-functional teams
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities

Preferred Qualifications

• Footwear design or materials experience strongly preferred
• Experience with outdoor or performance-focused products
• 3D design or rendering experience (e.g., CLO or similar tools)
• Hands-on prototyping or sample-making experience
• Passion for outdoor activities, sport, or performance design
• Experience working with well-known footwear or apparel brands

Who You Are

• A self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
• A creative problem solver with a strong eye for detail and innovation
• Curious, adaptable, and motivated to push design boundaries
• Passionate about blending performance, aesthetics, and functionality