New

Materials Research Analyst - Intern

Columbia Sportswear
401(k)
United States, Oregon, Portland
Jan 30, 2026
This position is designated as a hybrid role based out of our headquarters near Portland, Oregon. The current expectation is for employees to work onsite four days per week, subject to change based on business needs. This in-office requirement may be adjusted at the discretion of the company. PROGRAM SUMMARY At Columbia Sportswear, we offer college students an opportunity to join our team and help solve real business problems during our 10week summer internship at our Headquarters in Portland, Oregon. Interns gain handson experience within their assigned department while building partnerships with teams and fellow interns. Location: Portland, OR Duration: ~10 weeks Start Date: Monday, June 22nd Application Deadline: Friday, February 6th Pay Rate: 23.00/hour ABOUT THE POSITION The Materials Analyst Intern supports the development of seasonal textile materials from concept through commercialization. This role works closely with the Materials Research team to assist in material development, performance testing, and supplier collaboration. The internship provides exposure to apparel materials, textile construction methods, and the product creation process. HOW YOU WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE * Support seasonal material development activities, including tracking status, organizing samples, and preparing documentation. * Partner with global liaison offices and suppliers to understand performance requirements, testing needs, and aesthetic expectations. * Assist with the review of trials, lab dips, and sales samples; document findings and communicate observations to the team. * Participate in product creation meetings to learn how materials influence product performance, costing, timelines, and design direction. * Assist with basic cost data collection and organization to support evaluation of material pricing. * Maintain material libraries, technical data, and performance records to ensure accuracy and accessibility. * Research new textile technologies, sustainability trends, and relevant innovations to support continuous improvement. * Collaborate with senior materials researchers and the testing lab to expand understanding of textile testing methods and construction techniques. YOU ARE * Curious and detailoriented with an interest in materials and product development * Organized and able to manage multiple tasks and shifting timelines * Comfortable working in a fastpaced, collaborative environment * Strong in communication and able to partner across teams YOU HAVE * Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 * Relevant coursework or foundational knowledge of textiles, materials science, fiber science, or apparel construction * Familiarity with garment functionality and how materials impact performance * Strong organization, written communication, and verbal communication skills * Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word * Ability to adapt, problemsolve, and contribute in a team environment ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS * Current student with one of the following academic standings: Rising Senior, Senior, or Graduate/MBA student * Degree aligned to the internship area (textiles, apparel, materials science, product engineering, or related field) * Ability to participate in the full 10week internship program * Ability to work onsite at our Portland headquarters for the duration of the internship NONLOCAL CANDIDATE INFORMATION Relocation and housing are not provided. Interns are responsible for arranging and funding their own housing, transportation, and relocation for the duration of the program. This job description is not meant to be an all-inclusive list of duties and responsibilities, but constitutes a general definition of the position's scope and function in the company. Columbia Sportswear Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. Columbia Sportswear is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12.pdf. If you need reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please notify your recruiter. At Columbia Sportswear Company, we're proud to interns benefits that can protect your family's financial future and help you save money through our 401k plan plus a generous company match. Employees must be age 18 and have worked the required amount of hours to qualify. We also offer generous employee discounts. If you need an accommodation/adjustment to successfully complete and submit your application, please reach out to AskHR@columbia.com with the Subject: Applicant Assistance Requested.