Innovation Sample Creator

Portland, Oregon, United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Senior (5 to 8 years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Apparel, Outdoor Gear, SportswearIndustries

Requirements

Candidates must have 5+ years of experience in garment creation, sample making, or prototype construction within the outdoor, ski, performance, or other technical apparel space. Experience in both technical outerwear and high-performance sportswear is strongly preferred. Demonstrated experience building complex, high-quality samples with minimal direction and familiarity with innovation, product development, or R&D environments are highly preferred. Familiarity with patterning software is a plus, and a portfolio or photos of previous sample work are required. Advanced technical skills in garment and soft goods patterning, cutting, and sewing, proficiency with industrial sewing machines, seam sealers, cutting tools, and other fabrication equipment, and a strong understanding of stitching techniques and bonding methods are necessary. Familiarity with technical trims and closures, the ability to troubleshoot construction issues, high attention to detail, and strong written communication skills are also required.

Responsibilities

The Innovation Sample Creator will be responsible for the hands-on construction of prototype apparel and equipment, including patterning, cutting, sewing, and finishing samples using advanced techniques and materials. This role involves translating early-stage concepts into functional prototypes for technical outdoor products and collaborating with designers, developers, and engineers to build and refine samples for testing and validation. The creator will apply expertise to interpret sketches, CADs, and technical specifications, operate and maintain industrial sewing equipment and specialized tools, and utilize a wide range of stitching and bonding techniques. They will work with various technical materials and collaborate with cross-functional teams to problem-solve and refine construction methods.

Skills

Patterning

Cutting

Sewing

Finishing

Apparel Prototyping

Equipment Prototyping

Technical Apparel

Outdoor Apparel

Rain Jackets

Insulated Garments

Knit Tops

Backpacks

Industrial Sewing Equipment

Seam-Sealing Machines

Cutting Machines

Coverstitch

Flatlock

Interlock

Bonding Techniques

Waterproof-Breathable Laminates

Insulations

Stretch Knits

Foams

CAD Interpretation

Technical Specification Interpretation

Columbia Sportswear Company

Designs and sells outdoor apparel and gear

About Columbia Sportswear Company

Columbia Sportswear Company designs and sells a variety of outdoor clothing and gear, including jackets, shirts, pants, shorts, footwear, and accessories like hats and backpacks. Their products are aimed at outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and active individuals of all ages. Columbia's products are known for their quality and durability, setting them apart from competitors in the outdoor apparel market. The company operates through a direct-to-consumer model, selling via their website, retail stores, and partnerships with other retailers, which helps them reach a wide audience. Their goal is to provide high-quality outdoor gear that enhances the experience of those who enjoy outdoor activities.

Portland, OregonHeadquarters

1938Year Founded

$40KTotal Funding

IPOCompany Stage

Consumer GoodsIndustries

1,001-5,000Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Health Savings Account/Flexible Spending Account

Unlimited Paid Time Off

401(k) Company Match

401(k) Retirement Plan

Wellness Program

Employee Discounts

Mental Health Support

Risks

The new Cherry Hill Mall store may face challenges in a competitive retail environment.

The Vader Collection may not resonate with Columbia's core customer base.

Strategic shifts by new marketing leadership could impact brand loyalty.

Differentiation

Columbia Sportswear offers innovative outdoor apparel with a strong brand reputation.

The company employs a multi-channel sales strategy for broad market reach.

Columbia's collaborations, like the Star Wars collection, attract niche markets.

Upsides

The rise of outdoor activities post-pandemic boosts demand for Columbia's products.

Collaborations with franchises like Star Wars enhance brand visibility and appeal.

Direct-to-consumer sales and social media marketing reach younger demographics effectively.

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