Materials Designer, Footwear

Materials Designer, Footwear | Chicago, IL or Portland, OR

At Wilson, we are here to empower every human to live like an athlete. Passion. Creativity. Integrity. Teamwork. Ambition. Innovation. These are the qualities that have made Wilson Sporting Goods Co. the number one sports equipment brand in the world. We come together to win, grow, and celebrate. We all play for Team Wilson. We all have a role to play within our organization and are working towards the same goal. One team, one dream.

We believe that being an athlete isn’t something you do, it’s who you are. It’s a universal code of conduct, a way of seeing the world and how you show up every day. We seek out diverse voices and welcome all perspectives. Our team is composed of individuals with unique backgrounds, points of view and experiences. These perspectives create a rich and diverse culture in which we learn from one another through empathy and inclusion.

Evolving the sports world and being the best partner for players, athletes, and our community is no small task. We are continually looking to add enthusiastic, ambitious, team-first individuals who desire to make a difference —and who love to help others win. Together, we will create a better world through sport. Join us.

As Material Designer on the Footwear team, you will own inline material specification and drive development with external vendors. You’ll translate athlete and technical insights into material solutions that elevate comfort, durability, and aesthetics for our commercial footwear projects.

Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Define and document precise material specifications for inline footwear projects.
• Partner with external vendors to develop, prototype, and refine materials for production.
• Manage sample approvals, material performance testing, and quality feedback loops with suppliers.
• Conduct market and trend research to identify emerging materials, finishes, and textile treatments.
• Evaluate material performance against criteria for cushioning, weight, durability, and cost targets.
• Collaborate with Footwear Designers to develop material concepts that support product DNA and design ethos.
• Create material palettes, mood boards, and prototype samples for concept reviews.
• Work closely with Performance Testing to validate material properties under real-world conditions.
• Align with Sourcing & Supply Chain to ensure material feasibility, cost targets, and lead-time requirements.
• Generate clear material specifications, tech packs, and testing protocols for development partners.
• Maintain material libraries and sample archives for internal reference.

Bachelor’s degree in Textile Science, Materials Engineering, Industrial Design, or related field and 3+ years of experience in materials development for performance footwear or soft goods.

Other qualifications include:

• Deep knowledge of textile fabrication methods, synthetic and natural fibers, coatings, and laminates.
• Proficiency in material testing methods (e.g., tensile, abrasion, moisture management).
• Strong conceptual and visual communication skills—able to convey complex material ideas through sketches, presentations, and prototypes.
• Excellent project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders.

What We’ll Provide

A reasonable estimate of the pay range is $65,000 - $90,000 per year at the time of this posting. Within the range, individual pay is determined by factors such as job-related skills, relevant experience, education, and/or training. Please note that the range details reflect the base pay only and does not include our competitive bonus program.

We also offer an innovative, inclusive, and people-first environment with competitive benefits and perks, including:

• Medical, dental and vision
• Pre-tax transit discounts
• 401(k) with company match
• Life insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Professional development opportunities
• Volunteering programs
• Team building outings
• Discounts on Wilson and Amer Sports products
• Summer hours
• Company-sponsored sports leagues/teams
• Fun, active company outings around major sports events

Wilson Sporting Goods Co. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristics.