Associate Product Designer

Role Overview

This full-time Associate Product Designer position is based in Bend, Oregon, focusing on creating seasonal outdoor dog gear as part of Ruffwear's mission to inspire outdoor adventures for dogs and their humans. As an individual contributor, you will work closely with cross-functional teams including Design, Development, Product Line Management, and Product Operations, guiding product concepts through to commercialization following brand strategies and timelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Director of Product Design to lead design stages from ideation to final approval for assigned products.
• Develop innovative designs using hand sketches, digital illustrations, CAD software, and in-house 3D prototype methods such as cut-and-sew and 3D printing.
• Present design concepts and user research findings to design and development teams; incorporate feedback through iterative cycles.
• Lead testing processes including proof-of-concept evaluations, fit tests, and size gradations to ensure product functionality.
• Analyze customer feedback like surveys, product reviews, focus groups, and wear tests to inform design improvements.
• Prepare detailed tech packs, artwork, and notes for each project within established deadlines.
• Design packaging concepts including material substrate, die lines, and product placement when required.
• Work alongside Development for patterning, sampling, manufacturability checks, cost reviews, and final commercial approval.
• Support documentation updates for special collections and working dog products.
• Maintain and embody Ruffwear’s design philosophy and principles with ongoing curiosity and dedication.

Candidate Qualifications

• Minimum of one year experience in product, technical, or fashion design.
• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design, Fashion Design, Product Design, or related discipline.
• Strong mastery of design principles and a refined visual aesthetic applicable across product categories.
• High levels of curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving aptitude.
• Self-starter with strong organizational and time management capabilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• A deep passion and understanding of technical outdoor gear used in adventurous activities.
• Attention to detail with a creative mindset.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively.
• Proficiency using Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Fusion 360, and Solidworks for 2D and 3D design.
• Fluency in Google Workspace and familiarity with Project Management tools, preferably Asana.

Physical Requirements

• Extended periods of desk work and computer use.
• Frequent use of hands/fingers and manual dexterity with tools and equipment.
• Good visual acuity including color perception.
• Occasional standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and reaching above shoulder height.
• Infrequent lifting of items up to 30 pounds.

Compensation and Benefits

• Annual base salary range of $70,000 - $80,000, determined by skills, experience, and internal equity.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage for employees and dependents.
• Company-paid employee assistance programs, life insurance, AD&D, and long-term disability coverage.
• Flexible time off policies including 12 weeks paid parental/family/medical leave.
• SIMPLE IRA retirement plan with 3% employer contributions.
• Sabbatical leave called Unleashed Discovery every five years.
• Quarterly performance bonuses.
• Exclusive discounts on company gear and industry professional deals.
• Two annual Field Days to test products in real outdoor conditions with dogs.
• Regular company events—virtual and in person—and a dog-friendly office environment.
• Supportive and highly skilled team culture under a leading industry brand.

Additional Information

• This position requires international travel twice a year, each lasting about three weeks or longer, to meet with manufacturing partners and suppliers.
• Occasional domestic travel may be necessary for training or company meetings.
• This job demands evening work hours to coordinate with global teams across various time zones.
• The role is based on-site in Bend, Oregon, and requires candidates authorized to work in the United States as employer sponsorship is not available.
• The job description may be updated and responsibilities may evolve at any time without prior notice.