Materials Design & Development Associate

Who We Are:

Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today.

JOB MISSION:
You will be responsible for supporting the research, evaluation, design, and implementation of new materials and technologies for apparel materials in collaboration with design, product management and R&D teams. You will support the direction of global design and material development teams to ensure your deliverables result in commercially viable material platforms that are consumer lead and athlete driven to improve the experience for our target consumer groups.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:
* Support the creation of seasonal kickoff strategies that drive new material technology platforms that are solution based and informed by global trends, athlete interaction and consumer behavior.
* Conduct research to help Identify material solutions in partnership with design, development and product teams in support of the brand strategy and business direction.
* Support partnerships with strategic material partners to establish concept exploration that results in material platform commercialization.
* Ensure materials are commercial ready by validating concepts through prototype sampling, 3rd party testing and collaborating cross-functionally on wear testing.
* Attend design reviews and presentations to represent material design innovations and ensure partnerships and platforms are communicated to global partners.
* Ensure material concepts are successfully integrated into line planning and provide all necessary tools to ensure successful commercialization
* Support the TEAM business with material developments as well as Global Inline print developments

REQUIRMENTS FOR SUCCESS:
* 3-5 years of experience with Textile Design or Development, Fashion Design, Textile Science, Industrial Design or relevant professional experience. Preferably print experience
* Ability to support the creation of material concepts
* Strong visual communication skills and verbal presentation skills
* Background in fashion/industry and understanding of consumer trends
* Information seeker and ability to determine future opportunities
* A creative thinker and innovator with experience in the Product Life Cycle Process.
* Strong organization and time management skills
* Excellent analytical thinking and problem solving skills

Regular Associate Benefits

Our products are only as good as the people we hire, so we make sure to hire the best and treat them accordingly. New Balance offers a comprehensive traditional benefits package including three options for medical insurance as well as dental, vision, life insurance and 401K. We also proudly offer a slate of more nontraditional perks - opportunities like online learning and development courses, tuition reimbursement, $100 monthly student loan support and various mentorship programs - that encourage our associates to grow personally as they develop professionally. You'll also enjoy a yearly $1,000 lifestyle reimbursement, 4 weeks of vacations, 12 holidays and generous parental leave, because work-life balance is more than just a buzzword - it's part of our culture.

Temporary associates are provided three options for medical insurance as well as dental and vision insurance and an associate discount.

Part time associates are provided 401k, short term disability, a yearly $300 lifestyle reimbursement and an associate discount.

Flexible Work Schedule

For decades we have fostered a unique culture founded on our values with a particular focus on in-person teamwork and collaboration. Our North American hybrid model encourages rich in-person experiences, showcasing our commitment to teamwork and connection, while maintaining flexibility for associates. New Balance Associates currently work in office three days per week (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday). Our offices are fully open, and amenities are available across our North American office locations. To continue our focus on hybrid work we have introduced "Work from Anywhere" (WFA) for four weeks per calendar year. This model will help us enhance our culture while continuing to maintain elements of flexibility.

Equal Opportunity Employer

New Balance provides equal opportunities for all current and prospective associates to ensure that employment, training, compensation, transfer, promotion and other terms, conditions and privileges of employment are provided without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, handicap, genetic information and/or status as an Armed Forces service medal veteran, recently separated veteran, qualified disabled veteran or other protected veteran, or any other protected status.