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Director Prototype Design Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Studio & Design Director

Portland, OR · On-site

$247K - $258K/yr

We're looking for an inspiring and visionary Studio & Design Director to lead the evolution of our ... Develop and implement best practices for prototype creation, concept validation, and innovation ...

That means constant prototyping, welding, fabrication, and iteration. Our shop is not a support ... Provide direct DFM feedback to design engineers to improve manufacturability and cost * Design and ...

That means constant prototyping, welding, fabrication, and iteration. Our shop is not a support ... Provide direct DFM feedback to design engineers to improve manufacturability and cost * Design and ...

Senior Prototype Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$125K - $165K/yr

Use CAD to design prototypes, fixtures and assemblies * Help other engineers with DFM * Develop new ... Have a strong, self directed work ethic * Have a desire to drive continuous improvement * Have ...

Senior Prototype Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$125K - $165K/yr

Use CAD to design prototypes, fixtures and assemblies * Help other engineers with DFM * Develop new ... Have a strong, self directed work ethic * Have a desire to drive continuous improvement * Have ...

Use CAD to design prototypes, fixtures and assemblies * Help other engineers with DFM * Develop new ... Have a strong, self directed work ethic * Have a desire to drive continuous improvement * Have ...

Job Details: The Role and Impact We are seeking a highly experienced a Director, SoC Design ... prototyping platforms (e.g., Palladium, Veloce, FPGA-based) and formal verification tools ...

Through research, prototyping and collaboration with other disciplines, you'll turn player ... Director Proactively represent UX/UI in discussions, feature prioritization, and goal creation ...

... prototype solutions in the first client engagements, before the team is built * Design and deliver ... We expect our Director to personally use AI-assisted development tools - not just understand them ...

Build prototypes to prove complex and high-risk processes prior to final design. * Identify and ... direct experience designing production fixtures and tooling based on part drawing datums.

Rapidly prototype new features based on observed client needs - turn field signals into mockups ... Partner across engineering, design, data, Sales, and customers; facilitate communication between ...

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Director Prototype Design information

What are some common challenges faced by a Director of Prototype Design when balancing innovation with practical constraints?

A Director of Prototype Design often navigates the challenge of fostering creativity and innovation while ensuring prototypes are feasible within budgetary, technical, and time constraints. Balancing the desire for cutting-edge solutions with the realities of manufacturability and client requirements requires strong communication and prioritization skills. Additionally, this role must align cross-functional teams, including engineering, marketing, and production, to ensure prototypes meet both visionary goals and practical needs. Effective Directors excel at managing stakeholder expectations and iterating quickly based on feedback from both internal teams and clients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Prototype Design, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Prototype Design, you need extensive experience in product design, engineering principles, and project management, often backed by a degree in industrial design, engineering, or a related field. Mastery of CAD software, rapid prototyping tools, and familiarity with design validation processes are typically required. Exceptional leadership, creative problem-solving, and strong communication skills set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure innovative prototypes are developed efficiently and collaboratively, aligning with business goals and market needs.

What does a Director of Prototype Design do?

A Director of Prototype Design oversees the creation and development of prototypes for new products or systems within an organization. They lead design teams, collaborate with engineers and product managers, and ensure prototypes meet both functional and aesthetic requirements. Their responsibilities include project management, resource allocation, and maintaining quality standards throughout the design process. By guiding the prototyping phase, they help transform concepts into tangible models that can be tested, refined, and eventually brought to market.

What is the difference between Director Prototype Design vs Product Designer?

AspectDirector Prototype DesignProduct Designer
CredentialsTypically requires extensive experience in design and prototyping, often with leadership skillsRequires design education, portfolio, and proficiency in design tools
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, oversees prototype development, collaborates with cross-functional teamsFocuses on designing user interfaces, user experience, and prototypes
Industry UsageUsed in tech, manufacturing, and product development companies for leadership rolesCommon in tech, digital agencies, and startups for hands-on design work

While both roles involve prototyping, the Director Prototype Design typically leads teams and oversees the entire prototype process, whereas the Product Designer focuses on creating and refining user-centered designs and prototypes. The director role emphasizes leadership and strategic oversight, while the product designer is more hands-on with design execution.

What are the most commonly searched types of Prototype Design jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Prototype Design jobs in Oregon are:
What job categories do people searching Director Prototype Design jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Director Prototype Design jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Director Prototype Design jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Director Prototype Design job openings:
Studio & Design Director

Studio & Design Director

Vibram Corporation

Portland, OR • On-site

$247K - $258K/yr

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Description

At Vibram, we're driven by curiosity, creativity, and innovation. We value bold thinking, diverse perspectives, and a passion for pushing boundaries. We're looking for achievers and forward-thinkers who are ready to make an impact and help shape what's next.


We're looking for an inspiring and visionary Studio & Design Director to lead the evolution of our Portland Studio into a world-class hub for product creation, design, innovation, athlete engagement, and testing. This is a unique opportunity to build the future of our North American Product Creation organization while collaborating with global leaders, designers, product developers, and commercial teams. You'll play a pivotal role in creating innovative products that push the boundaries of performance and design.


This is an opportunity to shape the future of one of the world's most iconic performance brands. You'll have the chance to build a world-class innovation studio, influence the next generation of footwear, collaborate with talented global teams, and help define the future of Product Creation at Vibram. If you're passionate about footwear, ready to lead innovation, inspire exceptional teams, and create products that move the industry forward, we'd love to meet you.


What You'll Do


Lead the Portland Studio

  • Establish and lead all in-line product creation activities based in Portland.
  • Develop and execute the long-term vision for the Portland Studio as a premier destination for innovation, prototyping, testing, and collaboration.
  • Drive product innovation initiatives from concept through commercialization readiness.
  • Collaborate closely with Boston-based Product Creation teams to establish a unified approach to innovation and development.
  • Support global and regional business opportunities through advanced product solutions and technical expertise.
  • Ensure projects are executed with clear timelines, accountability, and measurable outcomes.
  • Own the strategic direction, operation, and continuous evolution of the Portland Innovation Lab.
  • Establish the Lab as a premier destination for innovation, collaboration, prototyping, testing, and customer engagement.
  • Oversee lab resources, equipment, maker spaces, testing capabilities, and operational budgets.
  • Develop and implement best practices for prototype creation, concept validation, and innovation processes.
  • Identify emerging technologies, materials, manufacturing techniques, and consumer trends that can create competitive advantage for Vibram and its partners.
  • Foster a culture of experimentation, curiosity, and disciplined innovation.

Inspire and Develop a High-Performing Design Team

  • Lead, coach, and develop a talented team of footwear designers.
  • Foster a collaborative, creative, and accountable team culture.
  • Recruit and retain top design talent while building organizational capability for future growth.
  • Partner closely with global design leadership to ensure alignment across regions.
  • Act as a role model for Vibram's values and leadership principles.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Partner closely with Product Management, Design, Marketing, Sales, Innovation, Operations, and Global Product Creation teams.
  • Support customer engagements, strategic partnerships, and co-development opportunities.
  • Represent Vibram during industry events, innovation forums, customer meetings, and strategic presentations.
  • Serve as a bridge between North American initiatives and global Product Creation activities.

Provide Strategic Leadership

  • Help shape the future Product Creation and Innovation strategy for Vibram North America.
  • Identify opportunities to improve processes, capabilities, and organizational effectiveness.
  • Bring forward new ideas, consumer insights, and emerging trends that strengthen Vibram's competitive advantage.
  • Provide thought leadership on future product creation methodologies, consumer trends, and innovation opportunities.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Product Development, Engineering, Biomechanics, Materials Science, Business, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
  • 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in footwear product creation, design, development, engineering, or innovation.
  • Demonstrated success leading multidisciplinary teams in a global organization.
  • Deep understanding of footwear construction, product development, manufacturing, testing, and commercialization.
  • Experience launching innovative products from concept to market.
  • Experience working within performance footwear, outdoor, running, or technical consumer products is highly preferred.
  • Experience collaborating with athletes, testing programs, or consumer validation initiatives 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.