Lead Footwear Developer for PAD and Young Movers at On in Zurich

Keywords

• Footwear Development
• Kids Footwear
• Technical Lifecycle
• Swiss Engineering
• Material Innovation
• Global Collaboration

Summary

As a Lead Developer, you will drive the technical lifecycle for On's lifestyle and kids' footwear, bridging design and Swiss engineering. This role requires 7+ years of experience in complex footwear construction and global collaboration.

Job Description

On is looking for a Lead Developer to oversee the technical development of its fastest-growing product verticals: PAD (Lifestyle) and Young Movers (Kids). In this individual contributor role, you will operate at the intersection of high-performance design and disciplined Swiss engineering, ensuring that every product meets strict standards for performance, aesthetic, and fit.

Your tasks

• Manage the end-to-end technical lifecycle from 2D/3D concepts through prototyping to production-ready samples.
• Act as the primary technical partner to Design, translating creative concepts into commercial reality without compromising function.
• Translate adult performance concepts into kid-specific footwear, addressing unique biomechanical and durability needs.
• Partner with material sourcing and tooling teams to validate new compounds, textiles, and manufacturing methods.
• Oversee rigorous fit and wear testing protocols for both adults and kids to optimize comfort and support.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Product Management, Sourcing, and Tier 1 factory partners to meet timelines and margin targets.

Your profile

• 7+ years of footwear development experience with a proven track record of launching complex, performance-driven products.
• Experience in kids' footwear development is a significant advantage.
• Resilient individual contributor with patience and persistence to navigate long development cycles.
• Extensive experience working directly with overseas commercialization centers and factories.
• Ability to thrive in ambiguity and maintain a hands-on approach despite seniority.

What we offer

• A fast-scaling environment where shifting priorities are viewed as opportunities to innovate.
• The chance to work on sustainable materials and circularity in a rapidly evolving footwear landscape.