Product Developer, Innovation

Description

At Vibram, we are about pushing boundaries, challenging convention, and turning bold ideas into innovative products. We value curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and a drive to make things better.  As an Innovation Product Developer, you will help bring next-generation technologies and product concepts to life. This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of innovation, product development, materials research, and footwear performance as part of our global innovation team.
Reporting to the Senior Director of Development & Innovation, you will play a key role in developing insight-driven innovations that support both the Sport & Outdoor and Work & Industrial business units. From concept ideation and proof-of-concept development to prototype creation and validation, you will collaborate closely with design and development teams across Asia, Italy, and North America to transform ideas into tangible solutions.

Based in Boston, Massachusetts, this position primarily operates out of our Vibram Innovation Lab, home to our digital design studio, footwear resoling maker space, and biomechanical testing lab. The role also requires weekly collaboration at Vibram's manufacturing facility in North Brookfield, Massachusetts, where you will work alongside the Innovation Materials and Physical Properties Lab to evaluate materials, test concepts, and support the development of next-generation products.

If you thrive on exploring new ideas, building prototypes, and transforming concepts into reality, we invite you to apply and help shape the future of footwear.

Responsibilities

• Product development of innovation projects as part of the Vibram US-based Innovation team, with a focus on near-term innovations with a 3–5 year go-to-market horizon. 
• Support the development and execution of insight-led innovation programs aligned to milestone-based roadmaps created with Innovation, Marketing, and Sales for the Global Outdoor and Work Industrial business units. 
• Manage innovation product development and related projects from brief and design through final prototyping and sample creation. 
• Apply technical knowledge of footwear sole blueprints and mold development. 
• Use knowledge of manufacturing processes and product lifecycle stages to support development decisions. 
• Collaborate across Innovation functions through the Product Creation Triad communication process, partnering with design, development, insight marketing, and key stakeholders to solve problems and advance projects. 
• Analyze technical drawings, lab tests, patterns, components, and lasts to identify issues and drive timely resolutions. 
• Coordinate the timely creation, delivery, and approval of technical information, including 2D and 3D files, blueprints, and cost sheets. 
• Use makerspace and factory-floor R&D equipment, where applicable, to create prototypes, concepts, and solutions that support Vibram’s innovation roadmap. 
• Create prototypes using traditional and current model making methods.
• Balance time-sensitive in-line development deliverables with longer-range, stage-gate innovation initiatives. 
• Travel as needed for customer visits, market exploration, and collaboration with global factories in North America, Asia-Pacific, and Italy. 

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Applied Sciences, Product Development, or a related technical field; equivalent combination of education and relevant experience will also be considered.
• 2 to 6+ years of experience in footwear product development or a related product innovation environment.
• Strong technical understanding of outsole development, molds, tooling, and soling components.
• Ability to interpret and analyze complex blueprints, 2D and 3D files, technical documentation, and material specifications.
• Proficiency in CAD software and digital product development tools.
• Working knowledge of footwear construction, materials, lasts, molds, compounds, and basic foot anatomy.
• Hands-on maker mindset with a passion for building, testing, and bringing concepts to life; prototyping experience is highly valued.
• Ability to thrive in a global organization, balancing multiple projects, stakeholders, priorities, and deadlines.
• Strong presentation and communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey technical concepts to cross-functional teams and leadership.
• Positive attitude, collaborative approach, and enthusiasm for innovation and continuous learning.
• Self-starter with strong problem-solving capabilities and a drive for excellence.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and product development management systems.
• Experience with Rhino, Grasshopper, Gravity Sketch, KeyShot, or similar digital design and visualization tools preferred.
• Experience using Bambu and/or Formlabs 3D printers is a plus.
• Maker space, prototyping, fabrication, or rapid-iteration experience is preferred; willingness to learn is equally valued.
• Experience working with Asia-based manufacturing partners or factories is a plus.

Vibram is committed to employing a diverse workforce. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability.