📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Associate Product Performance Engineer
Company: Timberland
Location: Stratham, NH, USA
Job Type: On-site
Category: Web Technology - DevOps Engineer
Date Posted: July 24, 2025
Experience Level: 2-5 years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Manage Timberland's wear testing program and coordinate lab operations.
Conduct mechanical and performance testing of footwear materials and finished products.
Maintain lab equipment and ensure safety protocols.
Collaborate with product and materials teams to integrate subjective wear test feedback with objective lab testing results.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role focuses on the technical aspects of footwear engineering, with a strong emphasis on testing, quality assurance, and collaboration with cross-functional teams.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Wear Testing Program Management:
- Coordinate shipment and receipt of samples to wear testers.
- Collect, compile, and report feedback from wear testing.
- Align subjective wear test feedback with objective lab testing results.
Material and Shoe Testing:
- Conduct mechanical and performance testing of finished products and materials.
- Follow written procedures and guidelines for laboratory testing.
Lab Operations and Equipment Maintenance:
- Maintain all equipment in proper working order.
- Keep the lab clean and organized, adhering to safety protocols.
- Track scheduled maintenance and repairs.
- Maintain material inventories.
Communication and Collaboration:
- Communicate test results to the manager and product/materials teams.
- Work effectively in a team environment, collaborating with various departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires strong communication skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks, as well as a keen eye for detail and the capacity to identify and resolve technical issues.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field. Relevant coursework in materials science, mechanical engineering, or a similar discipline is preferred.

Experience: Proven experience (2+ years) in the footwear or fashion industries, with a strong understanding of various materials used in footwear. Familiarity with international footwear testing methods and standards is beneficial.

Required Skills:

Experience or training specifically within the footwear or fashion industries.
Understanding of various materials used in footwear, including leather, textiles, polymers, and their properties.
Ability to operate and maintain laboratory equipment, including test machines and instruments.
Familiarity with international footwear testing methods and standards.
Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
Ability to manage multiple tasks, organize samples, and maintain accurate records.
Keen eye for detail and ability to accurately read, interpret, and document test results.
Ability to identify and resolve technical issues that may arise during testing.
Teamwork: Ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Preferred Skills:

Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Knowledge of statistical analysis software (e.g., Minitab, JMP, or R).
Experience with quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 13485).

📝 Enhancement Note: While a technical degree is preferred, the most important qualifications for this role are relevant experience and a strong understanding of footwear materials and testing methods.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Detailed documentation of past wear testing projects, including test methods, results, and conclusions.
Examples of successful collaborations with cross-functional teams, demonstrating the ability to integrate subjective and objective testing results.
Evidence of proficiency in laboratory testing procedures and equipment maintenance.

Technical Documentation:

Detailed test plans and procedures, demonstrating an understanding of testing standards and best practices.
Records of test results, including data analysis and interpretation.
Documentation of equipment maintenance and calibration procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: As this role focuses on testing and quality assurance, the portfolio should emphasize the candidate's technical skills and ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $63,200 - $79,000 USD annually

Benefits:

Medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) plans.
Paid service time and discounts.

Working Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is based on market pay data and complies with local, state, and federal laws. Benefits are subject to change and may vary based on the candidate's location and employment status.

🎯 Team & Company Context

Company Culture:

Industry: Footwear and apparel manufacturing.
Company Size: Large, with a global presence and a rich heritage of craftsmanship.
Founded: 1973, with a commitment to making products responsibly, protecting the outdoors, and building community.

Team Structure:

The Footwear and Materials Testing Lab team consists of engineers, technicians, and support staff.
The team works closely with product development, materials, and supply chain teams to ensure the quality and performance of Timberland footwear.
The lab is part of the Global Footwear Product Creation organization, which is responsible for designing, developing, and delivering all Timberland footwear products.

Development Methodology:

The lab follows established testing procedures and guidelines, ensuring consistency and accuracy in test results.
The team uses a collaborative approach, working closely with cross-functional teams to integrate testing results into the product development process.
The lab is committed to continuous improvement, regularly reviewing and updating testing methods and equipment to ensure the highest standards of quality and performance.

Company Website: Timberland.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Timberland's commitment to responsible manufacturing, environmental sustainability, and community involvement is reflected in its company culture and values. The company fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment, with a strong focus on teamwork and cross-functional collaboration.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: Associate Product Performance Engineer - Early to mid-career level, with opportunities for growth into senior engineering roles or specialized technical positions.

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Manager, Product Performance Engineer, who is part of the Global Footwear Product Creation organization.

Technical Impact: This role has a significant impact on the quality, performance, and durability of Timberland footwear products. The associate product performance engineer's work directly influences the design and development of new footwear products, as well as the improvement of existing ones.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Specialization: Pursue advanced training or certification in materials science, mechanical engineering, or a related field to specialize in a specific area of footwear engineering.
Team Leadership: Develop leadership skills through mentoring, training, and project management opportunities to advance into a senior engineering or management role.
Global Experience: Gain international experience by working on global footwear projects or through international assignments to expand knowledge of global footwear markets and testing standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: Timberland offers extensive development and growth opportunities for its employees, with a strong focus on technical skill development and career progression. The company encourages employees to take on new challenges and seek out learning opportunities to advance their careers.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site, with a dedicated lab space for testing and equipment maintenance.

Office Location(s): Stratham, NH, USA

Workspace Context:

The lab is equipped with state-of-the-art testing equipment and materials, providing a modern and efficient work environment.
The lab is designed to be clean, organized, and safe, with appropriate safety protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE) in place.
The lab is part of a larger campus, with access to shared spaces, such as meeting rooms, break rooms, and outdoor recreational facilities.

Work Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours per week, with flexible scheduling for testing and maintenance windows as needed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The lab provides a collaborative and inclusive work environment, with a strong focus on teamwork and cross-functional collaboration. The lab is designed to be safe, efficient, and comfortable, with appropriate equipment and resources to support the team's work.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone or Video Screen: A brief phone or video call to discuss the candidate's experience, qualifications, and career goals.
On-site Interview: A visit to the Timberland headquarters in Stratham, NH, to meet with the hiring manager, lab team members, and other stakeholders. The on-site interview may include a tour of the lab, a presentation of the candidate's portfolio, and a technical assessment.
Final Decision: A final decision is made based on the candidate's qualifications, cultural fit, and the team's needs.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight past wear testing projects, including test methods, results, and conclusions.
Demonstrate the ability to integrate subjective and objective testing results by providing examples of successful collaborations with cross-functional teams.
Showcase proficiency in laboratory testing procedures and equipment maintenance by providing detailed documentation and records.
Emphasize strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment by providing examples of successful collaborations and team projects.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on footwear materials, testing methods, and industry standards.
Review Timberland's product lines and commitment to responsible manufacturing and environmental sustainability.
Prepare for questions about lab equipment, testing procedures, and data analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess the candidate's technical skills, cultural fit, and ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams. The process is tailored to the specific role and the candidate's qualifications.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Testing Equipment and Software:

Mechanical testing equipment, such as universal testing machines, dynamic fatigue testers, and flexural testers.
Materials testing equipment, such as tensile testing machines, hardness testers, and density testers.
Statistical analysis software, such as Minitab, JMP, or R.
Quality management systems, such as ISO 9001 or ISO 13485.

Laboratory Equipment Maintenance:

Regular cleaning and maintenance of testing equipment to ensure proper functioning and accuracy.
Calibration and certification of testing equipment to maintain quality and consistency in test results.
Documentation of equipment maintenance and calibration procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is focused on laboratory testing equipment and software, with an emphasis on mechanical and materials testing. The lab is committed to maintaining high standards of quality and accuracy in testing results.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Footwear Engineering Values:

Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality, durable, and comfortable footwear products.
Innovation: A dedication to pushing the boundaries of footwear engineering and materials science.
Collaboration: A strong focus on teamwork and cross-functional collaboration to integrate testing results into the product development process.
Sustainability: A commitment to responsible manufacturing, environmental sustainability, and community involvement.

Collaboration Style:

The lab follows a collaborative approach, working closely with cross-functional teams to integrate testing results into the product development process.
The team uses regular meetings, presentations, and data reviews to communicate test results and ensure alignment with product development goals.
The lab is committed to continuous improvement, regularly reviewing and updating testing methods and equipment to ensure the highest standards of quality and performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Timberland's commitment to collaboration, innovation, and sustainability is reflected in its footwear engineering values and team culture. The lab fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment, with a strong focus on teamwork and cross-functional collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Material Characterization: Develop a deep understanding of various footwear materials, including leather, textiles, and polymers, to optimize their performance and durability.
Testing Method Development: Contribute to the development and refinement of testing methods to ensure accurate and relevant results.
Data Analysis and Interpretation: Interpret and analyze test data to draw meaningful conclusions and make data-driven recommendations for product improvement.
Equipment Maintenance and Calibration: Ensure the proper functioning and accuracy of testing equipment through regular cleaning, maintenance, and calibration.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Training: Pursue advanced training or certification in materials science, mechanical engineering, or a related field to specialize in a specific area of footwear engineering.
Mentoring and Coaching: Seek out mentoring and coaching opportunities from experienced engineers and team members to develop technical skills and career growth strategies.
Conference Attendance: Attend industry conferences and workshops to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in footwear engineering and materials science.

📝 Enhancement Note: Timberland offers extensive learning and development opportunities for its employees, with a strong focus on technical skill development and career progression. The company encourages employees to take on new challenges and seek out learning opportunities to advance their careers.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Footwear Materials: Describe the properties and applications of various footwear materials, such as leather, textiles, and polymers. Provide examples of how these materials can be optimized for performance and durability.
Testing Methods: Explain the principles behind common footwear testing methods, such as mechanical testing, materials testing, and dynamic testing. Describe how these methods can be applied to evaluate the performance and durability of footwear products.
Data Analysis: Discuss how to analyze and interpret test data to draw meaningful conclusions and make data-driven recommendations for product improvement.
Equipment Maintenance: Describe the procedures for cleaning, maintaining, and calibrating laboratory testing equipment to ensure proper functioning and accuracy.

Company & Culture Questions:

Company History: Discuss Timberland's history, values, and commitment to responsible manufacturing and environmental sustainability.
Product Lines: Describe Timberland's footwear product lines and the unique features and technologies used in their construction.
Team Dynamics: Explain how the lab works collaboratively with cross-functional teams to integrate testing results into the product development process.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Project Selection: Choose projects that demonstrate a strong understanding of footwear materials, testing methods, and data analysis.
Storytelling: Use storytelling techniques to explain the context, process, and results of each project, highlighting the value and impact of your work.
Visual Aids: Use graphs, charts, and other visual aids to communicate test results and data-driven insights effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess the candidate's technical skills, cultural fit, and ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams. The process is tailored to the specific role and the candidate's qualifications.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Associate Product Performance Engineer position at Timberland:

Review the Job Description: Thoroughly read and understand the job description, highlighting the required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to emphasize your relevant experience, skills, and achievements in footwear engineering, materials science, or a related field.
Prepare Your Portfolio: Select projects that demonstrate your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and collaborative approach to footwear engineering. Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and highlights your most relevant work.
Research Timberland: Familiarize yourself with Timberland's history, values, and product lines. Prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview process, demonstrating your interest in the company and the role.
Practice Interview Questions: Use the provided interview questions and tips to prepare for the technical and behavioral aspects of the interview process. Practice your responses and refine your presentation skills to ensure a strong performance.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and web technology industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

Timberland: Associate Product Performance Engineer