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Manager Materials Development Apparel

United States, Portland 33.40 - 37.11 USD / Hour · Job Posted December 06, 2025
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Job Description

We’re supporting a leading global apparel organization in identifying a Manager, Materials Development (Apparel). This role is perfect for someone who thrives at the intersection of creativity, technical expertise, and cross-functional collaboration. The ideal candidate will ensure that innovative, high-quality materials are developed and delivered to meet design vision, cost targets, and production timelines. In this role, you’ll serve as a key partner to Design, Product Development, Sourcing, and Tier 2 suppliers—translating concepts into commercially viable apparel materials. Your work directly impacts product quality, sustainability initiatives, and the overall success of each season’s collection.

Job Responsibility

  • Serve as the primary contact and subject matter expert for all apparel material–related topics across internal teams
  • Drive cross-functional material discussions, lead material selection, and promote material consolidation for efficiency
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with Design, Product Development, Sourcing, Quality, and external suppliers
  • Ensure accuracy and availability of material data in internal systems (technical specs, costing, lifecycle information)
  • Identify and vet sources for new material developments aligned with sourcing strategy and product allocation needs
  • Partner with Tier 2 suppliers to translate design direction into innovative, commercially viable materials
  • Manage seasonal material development from kickoff to finalization, including initial price negotiations with suppliers
  • Ensure all materials are tested and approved by Materials Quality teams according to timelines and standards
  • Collaborate cross-functionally to build a focused material toolbox and optimize material efficiency across categories
  • Maintain and continuously improve the materials library
  • encourage shared usage across teams
  • Research and share material trends, insights, and innovations through supplier meetings, trade fairs, and internal partners
  • Work with innovation and sustainability teams to translate new concepts into actionable business plans

Requirements

  • Excellent communication, presentation, and influencing skills
  • Solution-oriented mindset with the ability to identify material-related issues and propose alternatives
  • Strong understanding of the apparel creation and material development processes
  • Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities
  • Proficiency in English
  • Strong IT skills (MS Office, internal databases)
  • Willingness to travel as required
  • Growth mindset and commitment to continuous learning
  • Bachelor’s degree in Textile Engineering or a related field (or equivalent education/experience)
  • Minimum 2 years of experience in material development or a similar discipline

Nice to have

experience with 3D creation tools is a plus

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