Footwear Material Researcher Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of fast fashion and sustainable trends, the importance of footwear material researchers has never been more evident.

As footwear technology advances, the demand for innovative minds who can discover, analyze, and improve our material resources escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a footwear material researcher?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the science behind footwear materials,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable footwear material researcher job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Footwear Material Researcher Duties and Responsibilities

Footwear Material Researchers play a critical role in the shoe industry, using their expertise to find and test materials to create comfortable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing footwear.

Their primary responsibility is to understand the properties and potential of various materials, with tasks and responsibilities including:

• Research and analyze various materials and their suitability for different types of footwear
• Consult with designers and product developers to understand their material needs and specifications
• Test materials to assess their durability, comfort, and suitability for different weather conditions and uses
• Track and record data from material testing
• Stay informed about new material trends, innovations, and technologies in the footwear industry
• Provide recommendations for material selection based on research and testing results
• Work with suppliers to source and negotiate the purchase of materials
• Ensure all materials comply with industry safety and environmental standards
• Collaborate with designers and manufacturers to ensure the selected materials meet design and production requirements

 

Footwear Material Researcher Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an innovative Footwear Material Researcher to join our team.

In this role, you will be responsible for identifying, testing, and proposing new materials for our footwear designs.

Footwear Material Researcher responsibilities include conducting extensive research, collaborating with suppliers, testing materials for durability and comfort, and maintaining detailed records of research findings.

Our ideal candidate has a strong knowledge of material science, a keen eye for detail, and a passion for creating high-quality, sustainable footwear.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on various materials suitable for footwear production
• Collaborate with suppliers and manufacturers to source new materials
• Test materials for durability, comfort, and environmental impact
• Create and maintain detailed records of research findings
• Collaborate with design and production teams to incorporate new materials into designs
• Stay up-to-date on industry trends and advancements in material science
• Contribute to sustainability initiatives by researching and proposing eco-friendly materials
• Present research findings to stakeholders and team members

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Material Researcher or similar role in the footwear industry
• Knowledge of material science and its application in the footwear industry
• Ability to conduct tests and record detailed findings
• Strong communication skills to effectively present findings
• Familiarity with industry trends and advancements in sustainable materials
• A degree in Material Science, Engineering, or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Footwear Material Researcher
• Work Environment: Office and laboratory setting. Some travel may be required to meet with suppliers and manufacturers.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Research and Development Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $95,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Footwear Material Researcher Do?

Footwear Material Researchers are professionals usually employed by shoe manufacturing companies, research institutes, or work independently as consultants.

Their primary role involves researching, analyzing, and testing various materials to determine their suitability for use in different types of footwear.

They study the properties of materials such as leather, rubber, synthetics, and textiles, and how they interact with human skin and various environmental conditions.

They work closely with footwear designers, engineers, and product managers to ensure the materials chosen align with the design, comfort, durability, and performance requirements of the footwear.

Footwear Material Researchers also focus on sustainability, looking for eco-friendly materials that meet the necessary standards.

They often conduct and review tests on materials to assess their performance under stress, moisture, heat, and other conditions.

In addition, they keep abreast of the latest technological advancements in material science and introduce innovative materials to enhance the quality, performance, and aesthetic appeal of footwear.

A significant part of their job is to provide technical guidance during the production process and troubleshoot any issues related to the materials used.

They are also responsible for creating and presenting reports on their findings and suggesting improvements or alternatives where necessary.

 

Footwear Material Researcher Qualifications and Skills

Footwear Material Researchers need to possess a unique combination of technical knowledge, industry understanding, and specific skill sets, which include:

• Strong expertise in materials science, engineering or a related field to understand and research various materials used in footwear.
• Excellent research skills to investigate new materials, trends and technologies in the footwear industry.
• A good understanding of testing methods and procedures to evaluate the durability, comfort, and longevity of materials.
• Analytical and critical thinking skills to interpret data, identify potential problems with materials, and find viable solutions.
• Excellent communication skills to articulate research findings clearly to designers, manufacturers, and other stakeholders.
• Creativity and innovation to explore new materials and combinations that can improve footwear quality and performance.
• Attention to detail to ensure accurate, comprehensive documentation of research processes and findings.
• Knowledge of sustainability and environmental factors impacting the footwear industry to guide research towards eco-friendly materials and processes.

 

Footwear Material Researcher Experience Requirements

For a role as a Footwear Material Researcher, it’s generally expected that applicants have a minimum of 2-3 years of experience within the field of materials science, specifically related to textiles or polymers.

This experience may have been gained through internships, research assistantships, or through full-time employment.

Candidates may also gain valuable experience through roles such as Materials Analyst, Quality Assurance Tester or Product Developer within the textile or footwear industry.

Footwear Material Researchers with more than 5 years of experience will have developed a deep understanding of the properties and performance of various materials and will have honed their skills in material testing and analysis.

They might have also gained some leadership experience, making them suitable for senior or managerial roles.

Furthermore, experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software, 3D printing technologies, and other relevant software is often required, given the increasingly technological nature of this role.

Candidates with a background in environmental science or sustainability may be particularly attractive to companies seeking to make their footwear more environmentally friendly.

Finally, those who have published their research in academic journals or have been involved in patented material innovations may have a competitive edge, as these are strong indicators of deep expertise and innovative thinking.

 

Footwear Material Researcher Education and Training Requirements

Footwear Material Researchers typically have a bachelor’s degree in materials science, chemistry, textile science, or a related field.

They also need a strong background in research methodology and understanding of different materials used in the production of footwear such as leather, rubber, synthetics, and others.

Some positions, especially those with specialized duties or those in high-end footwear companies, may require Footwear Material Researchers with a master’s degree in materials science or a specific discipline related to footwear materials.

There are also certifications available for Footwear Material Researchers, which focus on various aspects like textile testing, leather technology, or synthetic material development.

Pursuing a master’s degree and/or certification not only increases their practical knowledge but also signifies their dedication to the field, enhancing their employment prospects.

Practical experience in a laboratory setting, as well as a good understanding of industry standards and regulations, is often considered a plus.

Continual learning about emerging trends, materials, and technologies in the footwear industry is crucial for maintaining relevance in this field.

 

Footwear Material Researcher Salary Expectations

A Footwear Material Researcher can expect to earn an average salary of $65,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary based on factors such as experience, specialization in the field, geographical location, and the company employing the researcher.

 

Footwear Material Researcher Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Footwear Material Researcher need?

Footwear Material Researchers should have excellent analytical and problem-solving skills as they often have to identify and assess the best materials for footwear production.

They should also have knowledge of material science and be familiar with various types of materials, including leather, synthetics, and textiles.

Strong written and verbal communication skills are crucial for presenting research findings.

 

Do Footwear Material Researchers need a degree?

Yes, a Footwear Material Researcher usually requires a degree in material science, engineering, or a related field.

These fields provide a solid foundation in understanding the properties of various materials, which is crucial in this role.

Further specialized training or education in footwear design or materials may also be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Footwear Material Researcher’s resume?

When reviewing a resume for a Footwear Material Researcher, pay attention to their educational background in material science or a similar field.

Relevant experience in footwear material research, product development, or similar roles would be a plus.

Look for demonstrated skills in analysis, problem-solving, and communication.

Knowledge of industry trends and sustainability issues is also valuable.

 

What qualities make a good Footwear Material Researcher?

A good Footwear Material Researcher should be detail-oriented, as accuracy is crucial in research and testing.

They should also have a creative mindset to innovate and discover new materials for footwear.

Patience and perseverance are important qualities as researching and testing materials can be a lengthy process.

A passion for sustainability could also be beneficial, as many companies are seeking to create more sustainable footwear.

 

Is it challenging to find qualified Footwear Material Researchers?

Finding qualified Footwear Material Researchers can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

It requires a unique combination of skills and knowledge in material science, footwear design, and market trends.

However, offering competitive salaries and opportunities for career growth can attract high-quality candidates.

 

Conclusion

So, there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricate world of what it truly means to be a Footwear Material Researcher.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about identifying and testing materials.

It’s about shaping the future of footwear, one material at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive Footwear Material Researcher job description template and real-world examples, you’re poised to take a step forward.

But why halt your journey here?

Stride further with our job description generator. It’s your next stride towards crafting precision-perfect listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Keep in mind:

Every material you research contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s shape the future of footwear. Together.

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