Director of Materials Science (Outdoor Gear)
Leads research and development of advanced textiles and materials for high-performance outdoor equipment.
Overview
This career centers on the intersection of chemistry, engineering, and functional design to solve complex performance challenges in extreme environments. The daily rhythm alternates between high-level laboratory oversight, vendor management, and collaboration with product designers to ensure new materials meet rigorous durability and sustainability standards. Directors must balance the push for technical innovation with the practical constraints of mass manufacturing and supply chain logistics.
Success in this role requires a deep understanding of polymer science and textile engineering alongside a strategic business mindset. The work often involves long-term research cycles and iterative testing protocols to validate claims regarding waterproofness, breathability, or thermal insulation. Professionals who thrive in this field are typically detail-oriented technical experts who enjoy the challenge of creating physical products that enhance human capability in the natural world.
Responsibilities
- Direct the strategic roadmap for material innovation across all product categories.
- Oversee laboratory testing protocols to ensure compliance with industry standards and performance requirements.
- Manage relationships with global textile mills and chemical suppliers to source sustainable raw materials.
- Collaborate with cross-functional design and engineering teams to integrate new technologies into product lines.