Lead Developer, Kids Chuck Global Converse

Become part of the Converse Team. Converse is a place where passionate individuals come together to create the future of sport.

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $113,900.00 in our lowest geographic market to $232,400.00 in our highest geographic market. Actual salary will vary based on a candidate's location, qualifications, skills and experience.

Who You Will Work With

The Lead Product Footwear Developer will collaborate with Technical Design, Product Management, Engineering, Materials, Quality, Color and factory partners to effectively execute product development deliverables.

Who We Are Looking For

We’re looking for a Lead Product Footwear Developer with experience in footwear product development and a deep understanding of upper construction, molds, lasts and patterns. This role supports the Converse brand’s creative team and covers the full scope of product creation from design concept to production.

The successful candidate is a creative problem solver who thrives in a fast-paced environment, contributes to cross-functional discussions, provides technical recommendations and implements innovations that enhance athlete performance. This person will also serve as a technical resource and mentor to other Product Footwear Developers and triad members.

• Participate in prototype review sessions and comment on quality, craftsmanship and manufacturing feasibility.
• Identify potential quality and manufacturing risks and influence partners to resolve them before prototype creation.
• Track prototypes, meet calendar target dates, attend development meetings and communicate progress and challenges.

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, Industrial Design, Engineering, Physical Sciences or a related field, or a suitable combination of education, experience and training.
• At least 5 years of footwear industry development experience, including upper and bottom construction, materials, costing, print and graphics, manufacturing and quality.
• Understanding of product specifications, advanced construction instructions, design intent and alternative solutions.
• Knowledge of footwear production factories and methods of make.
• Ability to act as a technical resource, mentor others and lead initiatives through positive influence.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to manage multiple projects in a deadline-driven environment.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills with attention to detail and process orientation.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Adobe Illustrator, with familiarity with CAD pattern design software.
• Ability to travel 20% domestically and internationally.

What You Will Work On

You will work within the Converse Kids’ Sportswear team, managing assigned styles collaboratively with cross-functional partners to bring creative solutions and ensure the finished product meets or exceeds end-use requirements. You will review prototypes and samples and shepherd styles through the creation process while meeting gates and dates for on-time production.

Converse offers accommodations throughout the interview process, including screen readers, sign language interpreters, accessible interview locations, closed captioning and other reasonable modifications as needed.

Converse is more than a company; it is a worldwide advocate for self-expression. From Boston to Shanghai, Converse celebrates unique and creative people and offers opportunities to create and grow professionally.