Principal Materials Innovation Lead – Running Gear

Brooks Sports Inc; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Brooks Sports Inc. in Seattle seeks a Principal Chemical Engineer, Innovation to lead the materials science effort across footwear and apparel.

You will mentor global teammates, drive new materials strategies, and partner with product teams, suppliers, and universities to push breakthrough solutions. The role demands advanced degrees and 10+ years of experience linking materials science to product engineering, with a track record of guiding complex programs to delivery.

Qualifications

• Masters or Doctorate in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Materials Science.
• 10+ years of experience linking fundamental materials science with product engineering; footwear experience is a plus.
• Experience leading and mentoring multi-disciplinary teams across functions.

Responsibilities

• Lead global Material Science project teams on complex, high-impact innovation initiatives.
• Own long-term compound research strategy to achieve leadership in running performance technology.
• Provide technical guidance, coaching, and training for the Material Science team.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Footwear, Apparel, Manufacturing, Marketing, Sales) to establish product validation, specs, and cost considerations.
• Mentor and develop talent, build a pipeline of technical leaders, and influence organizational decisions.
• Travel domestically and internationally as required to advance research, testing and production.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Cross-functional collaboration

Project management

Materials science depth

Effective communication

Education

Masters or Doctorate in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Materials Science

Job description

Brooks Sports Inc. in Seattle seeks a Principal Chemical Engineer, Innovation to lead the materials science effort across footwear and apparel.

You will mentor global teammates, drive new materials strategies, and partner with product teams, suppliers, and universities to push breakthrough solutions. The role demands advanced degrees and 10+ years of experience linking materials science to product engineering, with a track record of guiding complex programs to delivery.