Temp Material Innovation Specialist - Apparel (6 Month Contract)

Who We Are:

Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today.

JOB MISSION:

New Balance is seeking a temporary Material Innovation Specialist to support the development of advanced textiles that elevate performance and comfort in our apparel products. This role sits within the Apparel Innovation team and collaborates across design, development, and sports research to bring new material concepts to life.

We aim to create the most compelling, emotionally connected, signature product platforms rooted in athlete truths, fueled by technology, and designed with distinction. This role helps enforce New Balance as a leader in premium performance apparel by enabling athlete-centered innovation, creating future fabrications, and supporting prototype test refine workflows through rapid iteration and cross-functional collaboration.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Research and develop innovative yarns, fabrics, and finishes for performance apparel

• Support lab testing and evaluation of materials for durability, comfort, and technical function

• Track industry trends in fiber science and textile technologies

• Collaborate with internal teams and external vendors to transition materials from concept to commercialization

• Contribute to both short-term and long-term innovation initiatives across product categories

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:

• 3 to 6 years of experience in apparel materials or textile development

• Strong understanding of knit and woven construction, fiber properties, and performance finishes

• Familiarity with lab testing protocols and product creation processes

• Excellent communication, organization, and cross-functional collaboration skills

• Passion for innovation and athlete-driven design

Regular Associate Benefits

Our products are only as good as the people we hire, so we make sure to hire the best and treat them accordingly. New Balance offers a comprehensive traditional benefits package including three options for medical insurance as well as dental, vision, life insurance and 401K. We also proudly offer a slate of more nontraditional perks - opportunities like online learning and development courses, tuition reimbursement, $100 monthly student loan support and various mentorship programs - that encourage our associates to grow personally as they develop professionally. You'll also enjoy a yearly $1,000 lifestyle reimbursement, 4 weeks of vacations, 12 holidays and generous parental leave, because work-life balance is more than just a buzzword - it's part of our culture.

Temporary associates are provided three options for medical insurance as well as dental and vision insurance and an associate discount.

Part time associates are provided 401k, short term disability, a yearly $300 lifestyle reimbursement and an associate discount.

Flexible Work Schedule

For decades we have fostered a unique culture founded on our values with a particular focus on in-person teamwork and collaboration. Our North American hybrid model encourages rich in-person experiences, showcasing our commitment to teamwork and connection, while maintaining flexibility for associates. New Balance Associates currently work in office three days per week (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday). Our offices are fully open, and amenities are available across our North American office locations. To continue our focus on hybrid work we have introduced "Work from Anywhere" (WFA) for four weeks per calendar year. This model will help us enhance our culture while continuing to maintain elements of flexibility.

Equal Opportunity Employer

New Balance provides equal opportunities for all current and prospective associates to ensure that employment, training, compensation, transfer, promotion and other terms, conditions and privileges of employment are provided without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, handicap, genetic information and/or status as an Armed Forces service medal veteran, recently separated veteran, qualified disabled veteran or other protected veteran, or any other protected status.