Footwear Developer

Title: Footwear Developer

Location: Onsite, El Segundo CA

Reports to: Director, Product Creation

Who we are

At Wolf & Shepherd, we blend performance and luxury to redefine modern footwear. We believe in equipping everyday champions with the confidence to conquer their day, whether in the boardroom, on the move, or beyond. Wolf & Shepherd is searching for talent to contribute to the future development of our brand. We’re looking for someone with passion, creativity, and an entrepreneurial spirit to join our team as Footwear Developer.

What we need

We’re looking for a highly driven, detail-oriented footwear professional who is passionate about product, materials, fit and who thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on environment. This is a key role for our company, with direct impact on the quality, performance, and innovation of our product line.

The Footwear Developer will be responsible for managing the end-to-end development process from concept through production, ensuring product integrity, cost targets, timelines, and performance standards are met. The ideal candidate balances technical expertise with creative problem-solving and strong cross-functional collaboration. You will partner closely with design, sourcing, merchandising, and production teams to bring best-in-class footwear to market.

Job Type

This is a full-time, exempt role with an onsite work schedule based in our HQ office in El Segundo, CA.

Job Responsibilities

Development Execution & Timeline Management

• Own day-to-day execution of the footwear development process from concept handoff through production readiness.
• Manage seasonal development calendars, ensuring on-time delivery of prototypes, SMS samples, and production approvals.
• Track and communicate development status, risks, and dependencies to the Director of Product Creation.

Technical Development & Product Integrity

• Translate design concepts into technically sound, manufacturable footwear while preserving design intent.
• Own construction details, pattern execution, sizing, grading, and fit consistency across styles.
• Identify and resolve technical issues related to comfort, durability, and performance throughout development.

Materials & Component Execution

• Execute material and component development in partnership with design.
• Validate materials for quality, performance, lead times, and cost feasibility.
• Manage material approvals and substitutions as needed to maintain timelines and margin targets.
• Ensure all development documentation is accurate, complete, and production-ready at handoff.

Fit, Wear Testing & Quality Readiness

• Lead fit sessions, wear testing, and functional evaluations; document feedback and drive corrective actions.
• Ensure products meet Wolf & Shepherd standards for comfort, performance, and craftsmanship prior to production sign-off.

Factory & Vendor Coordination

• Communicate technical specifications, construction requirements, and revision updates clearly and consistently.
• Troubleshoot factory-level development and sampling issues and escalate when necessary.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner closely with Design to ensure smooth handoff from concept to development execution.
• Work cross-functionally with Sourcing, Operations, and Production to support smooth transition from development to bulk manufacturing.
• Participate in line reviews, sample reviews, and internal milestone meetings as needed.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of professional experience in footwear development, product development, or a related technical footwear role.
• Strong understanding of footwear construction, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Experience working directly with overseas factories and material suppliers.
• Proven ability to manage multiple styles and timelines simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and project management skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to clearly convey technical concepts.
• Collaborative mindset with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
• Ability to problem-solve creatively and make data-informed decisions under tight deadlines.

Perks and Benefits

We are committed to offering our employees a challenging and rewarding work environment, opportunities for growth and development, benefits, and a competitive compensation package.

• Health, vision, and dental benefits program
• 401(k) plan
• Paid time off
• Sick pay
• Frequent free meals, snacks, and company sponsored gatherings
• Wolf & Shepherd shoes and more

Wolf & Shepherd is an Equal Opportunity Employer.