About this role

Outdoor Research is seeking a Senior Materials Developer to lead the research, sourcing, development, and commercialization of raw materials and innovative technologies across our performance knits and technical woven categories. This senior individual contributor role will act as the primary owner of these material categories, driving strategic innovation and improving the efficiency of our seasonal materials toolbox.

In this role, you will manage supplier relationships, ensure materials meet Outdoor Research’s performance, quality, and sustainability standards, and collaborate closely with cross-functional partners in Design, Merchandising, Product Development, Sourcing, and Quality Assurance. This position reports directly to the Senior Materials Manager.

What You Will Do

• Research and develop industry-leading performance knits and technical wovens, focusing on yarn-forward and finish-forward innovations that support OR’s product strategy, design vision, and the technical needs of our end users.
• Collaborate with Product Management and Design to build a seasonal toolbox of core materials that supports efficiency, profitability, and speed-to-market, while identifying gaps and shaping the future materials roadmap.
• Monitor and evaluate emerging trends and technologies across industries; attend seasonal fabric shows to inform material strategy.
• Negotiate cost, lead times, and minimum order quantities (MOQs); maintain the fabric library, materials database, and supplier matrix for assigned categories.
• Oversee lab and field testing to ensure materials meet OR’s quality and performance standards.
• Partner cross-functionally to ensure material developments meet financial goals and calendar deadlines; drive decisions and problem-solve toolbox-related challenges.
• Provide technical guidance throughout the development process, ensuring smooth transitions from sampling to bulk production.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with global mills and raw material suppliers to develop and commercialize innovative fabrics and resolve production issues.
• Communicate seasonal toolbox progress and risk assessments to senior leadership.
• Serve as a subject matter expert, educating cross-functional partners on materials and technologies.
• Coordinate material orders for prototypes and partner with Planning on SMS yardage and greige commitments.
• Support company sustainability goals through informed material selection and sourcing practices.

Experience and Qualifications

• BA or BS in Textile Science, Textile Technology, Product/Textile Design, or equivalent industry experience
• 4–6 years of experience in textile development, with a focus on performance knits, technical wovens, and advanced finishing and printing techniques
• Deep understanding of textile manufacturing processes, including dyeing, finishing, laminating, and printing
• Proven experience partnering directly with mills to develop and commercialize innovative materials
• Strong communication skills with the ability to convey technical information to cross-functional partners
• Proficiency in Centric PLM and Excel for material tracking and development management
• Working knowledge of AATCC and ASTM testing standards to ensure materials meet performance and quality requirements
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment

What do we bring to the table?

• Hybrid working schedule, 3-4 days in our SODO office
• Domestic and/or International Travel (~10-15% annually)
• 11 paid holidays each year and 3 floating holidays 
• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision plans
• PTO and sick/safe time
• Paid volunteer time
• 401k with discretionary company match
• Transportation benefits
• Bouldering wall, Gym
• OR and Industry product discounts

Culture of thriving outside together in team sports, camp outs, and ski days