OluKai Materials Developer - Footwear

Who We Are:
At OluKai, we build premium products for the ocean lifestyle. Our footwear is created using the highest quality materials and crafted into beautiful, functional and incredibly comfortable designs that reflect the spirit of the ocean lifestyle we all enjoy. 

We are committed to creating quality products for our customers while leaving the smallest footprint possible on the planet. Our company philosophy is to be environmentally responsible as manufacturers and to pledge OluKai to actively support and work for a clean environment and a better quality of life.

Our customers and staff embody the connection that exists between people and the ocean, it is our Culture. We want to build a team of individuals who embrace this culture and have a passion for providing premium products and service to our customers.

About the Role

The Materials Developer leads the end-to-end creation, execution, and optimization of all raw materials across Leathers, Textiles, Trims, and Hardware from early concept through final confirmation. This role drives seasonal and franchise material strategies, brings a strong point of view on material trends and innovation, and maintains deep curiosity for fibers, constructions, and sustainable solutions.

The Materials Developer ensures close alignment with Design, Product Development and Sourcing teams while safeguarding material performance, cost, sustainability, and manufacturability. This role manages supplier relationships in partnership with the Asia Sourcing team, anticipates and mitigates risk, and champions innovation across our product segments strengthening OluKai’s unique market position and commitment to comfort, quality and craftsmanship.

What You’ll Do (Responsibilities include but are not limited to)

• Lead the full material development process from concept through final confirmation, ensuring on-time delivery across all seasonal calendars.
• Build and execute seasonal material strategies that strengthen the brand’s position across product segments delivering elevated, innovative, and commercially viable materials.
• Develop and manage a materials sourcing strategy in close partnership with Product Development and Sourcing to improve cost, lead times, vendor capabilities, and material readiness.
• Collaborate with Product Design, Product Development, global partners, and suppliers to align material direction with product intent.
• Evaluate technical feasibility, performance, and risk; proactively problem-solve to ensure materials meet product requirements and development timelines.
• Build strong vendor partnerships to explore new material technologies, innovations, and R&D opportunities.
• Maintain and expand the material library, ensuring it is current, accurate, and accessible to cross-functional teams.
• Identify and implement process improvements that streamline material development workflows and increase team efficiency.
• Communicate clearly and effectively with internal stakeholders and overseas partners across time zones.
• Travel to factories, vendors, and trade shows as needed (estimated 10–15% annually).

What We’re Looking For (Requirements and Qualifications):

Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Textiles, Textile Technology, Textile Engineering, Materials Science, or equivalent years of related experience in lieu of degree.
• 5+ years of experience in materials or textile development, preferably within footwear or adjacent apparel/accessories industries.
• Deep knowledge of leathers, textiles, trims, and hardware including sourcing, construction, performance properties, and testing standards.
• Experience with footwear-specific materials (e.g., outsole compounds, midsole foams, upper leathers, linings) is a strong plus.
• Proven track record managing vendor relationships and driving material innovation from concept through commercialization.
• Familiarity with sustainability frameworks and preferred material programs (e.g., recycled content, bio-based materials, bluesign®, Leather Working Group)

Skills & Competencies

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and overlapping seasonal calendars simultaneously.
• Sharp attention to detail and a high standard for material quality and accuracy.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; comfortable engaging cross-functional teams and overseas partners.
• Self-starter with a collaborative mindset. Proactive, solutions-oriented, and thrives in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel required).
• Working knowledge of Adobe