Footwear Developer

Footwear Developer

Specialized seeks an experienced Footwear Developer with over 5 years of hands‑on footwear development to partner with Product, Design and Manufacturing teams, delivering footwear that meets performance, fit, durability, cost, and sustainability targets.
Key Responsibilities

Lead new projects through the full development lifecycle from design handoff to production confirmation.
Manage development calendars, track milestones, and ensure on‑time sample delivery.
Support fit validation, wear testing, and lab testing to ensure footwear meets functional requirements.
Serve as a lead voice in materials exploration and execution, partnering with Industrial Design, CMF and Asia‑based development teams.
Facilitate cost‑engineering throughout design and commercialization phases.
Identify and implement process optimization opportunities to improve design and development processes.
Qualifications

5+ years in footwear development, with experience in midsole and outsole tooling, geometry refinement, draft, parting lines, sidewall detailing, groove design, and mold feasibility.
Deep understanding of injected materials, rubber compounds, advanced tooling, plastics, composites, textiles, and construction techniques.
Proven ability to manage tooling development, revisions, and commercialization in a factory environment.
Strong cross‑functional communication skills and the ability to give clear direction and expectations.
Experience in cost‑engineering, negotiations, and driving projects to meet delivery, cost, and innovation targets.
Ability to work fluidly with factories and vendors, communicating forecasts clearly and accurately.
Willingness to travel internationally 3–4 times per year.
Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
Passionate cyclist desired.
Location

Morgan Hill, CA (office) – 3 days in office (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday). Base pay range: $80,000–$120,000. Additional compensation and benefits are available as described.
EEO Statement

We want to increase representation of all races, genders, and body types in the cycling industry and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce where all people thrive. We encourage everyone—especially those from marginalized groups—to apply.

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