OluKai Footwear Developer II

Who We Are:
At OluKai we build premium products for the ocean lifestyle. Our footwear is created using the highest quality materials and crafted into beautiful functional and incredibly comfortable designs that reflect the spirit of the ocean lifestyle we all enjoy.

We are committed to creating quality products for our customers while leaving the smallest footprint possible on the planet. Our company philosophy is to be environmentally responsible as manufacturers and to pledge OluKai to actively support and work for a clean environment and a better quality of life.

Our customers and staff embody the connection that exists between people and the ocean it is our Culture. We want to build a team of individuals who embrace this culture and have a passion for providing premium products and service to our customers.

About the Role:

As a Footwear Developer II youll play a central role in transforming creative concepts into tangible footwear products. Youll partner closely with design merchandising sourcing and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless execution of seasonal and SMU (Special Make-Up) footwear lines. Your expertise in materials color construction and fit will ensure products are not only brand-right but also performance-ready consumer-focused and production-viable.

This position operates at the intersection of creative vision and technical feasibilitysupporting the delivery of on-time collections that balance innovation with cost efficiency and quality. Ideal candidates will have a keen eye for detail and a collaborative mindset ready to help elevate sneaker and franchise assortments.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Manage the development and execution of seasonal footwear programs and SMU initiatives ensuring flawless quality fit and brand alignment.
• Translate design concepts CADs and tech packs into execution-ready specs facilitating prototype fit and sample stages.
• Collaborate with merchandising to validate consumer channel and account needs; ensure commercial viability and assortment relevance.
• Work alongside sourcing and vendor partners to ensure cost targets material feasibility and production readiness are met.
• Own sample reviews and physical fit sessions identifying opportunities to enhance product fit performance durability and aesthetic impact.
• Maintain meticulous development documentation including sample tracking deviations and change control logs.
• Support preparation of SMUs with specialized graphic color and material treatments.

Requirements and Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in Industrial Design Product Development Engineering or a related field.
• Approximately 710 years of footwear development experienceideally within performance sneaker or lifestyle categories.
• Proven track record in managing footwear product creation from concept through commercialization.
• Solid understanding of footwear construction lasts pattern development materials and manufacturing processesespecially for sneaker products.
• Demonstrated experience with color graphic and material application in SMU or seasonal styling programs.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills across design merchandising sourcing and production teams.
• Detail-oriented with high organizational skillsadept at handling multiple projects timelines and samples simultaneously.
• Proficiency with development and PLM tools; familiarity with CAD and tech pack systems.
• Passion for sneakers innovation and performance-driven footwear excellence.

Location & Office Structure: This is an in-office hybrid position mandatory 4 days per week in office in Irvine CA with the option to work from home 1 day per week. Subject to change without notice as per company guidelines.

Compensation: The salary range for this position is $111000 to $130000 plus opportunity for annual bonus; salary is based on the experience that you bring to the position.

Benefits and Perks:

• Complimentary chef prepared breakfast and lunch provided Monday - Thursday
• Generous product gift program and all brand discounts
• Growth opportunities within the Archipelago family of brands: OluKai Kaenon Melin Roark
• Company bonus program
• 5 year and 10 year Anniversary gifts to Hawaii and other desirable destinations
• Wellness program including but not limited to in-office gym and group fitness classes
• Medical Dental Vision insurance in accordance with plan guidelines
• Company paid life insurance
• 401k with employer match in accordance with plan guidelines
• 15 Days of PTO plus one additional day of PTO every year on your anniversary and 3 Floating Holidays per year
• Paid beach and giveback days bi annual team building events and other in person celebrations
• Work with talented and great people who share a love of the ocean lifestyle
• OluKai is a Certified B Corporation with paid company service days
• Dog friendly office

Archipelago Companies values a diverse inclusive and entrepreneurial workforce and culture and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individuals race color sex gender identity gender expression religion age national origin or ancestry citizenship physical or mental disability medical condition family care status marital status domestic partner status sexual orientation genetic information military or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal state or local laws. If you are unable to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability please contact us at Archipelago will reasonably accommodate qualified individuals with disabilities to the extent required by applicable law.

Required Experience:

Senior IC