Professional, Innovation Prototyping

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Professional, Innovation Prototyping

Company: Under Armour

Location: Baltimore, Maryland, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Product Development & Innovation Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-16

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the end-to-end execution of innovative product prototypes and samples within Under Armour's Lighthouse Innovation Center.

• Translate design concepts into functional, athlete-centric products by leveraging cutting-edge materials, techniques, and equipment.

• Analyze and optimize manufacturing processes for sew-ability, efficiency, cost reduction, and enhanced quality.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with design, technical design, and engineering teams to ideate and develop original product concepts.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role focuses on the practical, hands-on creation of physical product prototypes within a dedicated innovation hub. It requires a blend of technical skill in fabrication and a strategic understanding of manufacturing processes to inform design and production. The "operations" aspect lies in managing the workflow of prototype creation, ensuring efficiency, and feeding insights back into the product development lifecycle.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Execute the creation of garment prototypes and samples using a variety of industrial equipment, including textile cutting tables, laser cutters, sewing (manual and seamless), heat presses, embroidery machines, and pad printing equipment.

• Perform component and/or complete sewing operations, often within a team or modular setup, to produce full or partial garment prototypes from patterns.

• Evaluate design sketches and apply independent judgment to determine the most effective methods for constructing garment concepts.

• Utilize advanced knowledge and technical expertise to ideate and create original concepts that address the specific needs of target athletes.

• Analyze manufacturing "sew-ability" and document proposed methods to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, improve overall product quality, and integrate innovative features.

• Engage in cross-functional collaboration with Technical Designers, Designers, Engineers, Mechanics, and Managers, providing informed recommendations based on expertise in garment construction and fabric behavior.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of prototyping processes, identifying opportunities for automation, new techniques, or material applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a deep dive into the practical application of manufacturing techniques for product innovation. Emphasis is placed on the ability to not just execute but also to analyze and propose improvements, bridging the gap between design intent and manufacturability.

CDR Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree with typically 2 years of related experience, or a Master's degree with no experience, or typically 6 years of relevant experience without a degree.

Experience: Proven experience in the sports apparel industry, with a strong foundation in industrial sewing techniques and equipment operation.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated mastery of sewing techniques using industrial (high-speed) equipment.

• Experience in the sports apparel industry.

• Ability to exercise effective independent judgment and technical/artistic discretion in creating prototypes.

• Strong time management skills with the ability to juggle multiple priorities and projects.

• Proficiency in interpreting design sketches and translating them into physical prototypes.

• Familiarity with various fabrication equipment such as laser cutters, heat presses, and embroidery machines. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with pattern making and garment construction principles.

• Knowledge of innovative materials and their application in athletic wear.

• Familiarity with 3D design software or digital prototyping tools.

• Understanding of manufacturing processes beyond sewing, such as bonding or finishing techniques.

• Experience working within an innovation lab or R&D environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize hands-on technical skills and industry-specific experience. The requirement for "independent judgment" and "technical and artistic discretion" suggests a role that requires problem-solving and creative application of skills, rather than just following instructions. The preference for pattern making and knowledge of innovative materials indicates a desire for candidates who can contribute creatively to the prototyping process.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of physical prototypes or detailed visual documentation (CAD renderings, 3D models) of innovative product concepts executed.

• Include case studies demonstrating the process of translating a design brief into a functional prototype, highlighting problem-solving steps.

• Present examples of how you analyzed and improved manufacturing processes for efficiency, quality, or cost within a prototyping context.

• Document your experience with specific fabrication techniques and equipment relevant to apparel prototyping.

• Provide evidence of collaboration with design or engineering teams on product development projects. Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate the ability to document the prototyping process, including material selection, construction methods, and testing procedures.

• Outline your approach to analyzing "sew-ability" and recommending process optimizations for efficiency and quality.

• Showcase how you iterate on designs and prototypes based on feedback and performance analysis.

• Illustrate experience in creating or adapting patterns for prototype development.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on innovation prototyping, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only display the final product but also the journey – the problem-solving, the technical execution, and the process improvements. This demonstrates the candidate's ability to contribute strategically to the innovation pipeline.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $75,000 - $100,000 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Paid "UA Give Back" Volunteer Days: Opportunity to participate in community initiatives with team members.

• Under Armour Merchandise Discounts: Significant savings on company products.

• Competitive 401(k) plan matching: Financial support for retirement savings.

• Maternity and Parental Leave: Comprehensive leave policies for eligible and FMLA-eligible teammates.

• Health & Fitness Benefits: Programs and resources promoting physical activity and overall well-being, including discounts.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week), with an on-site work schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is typical for a professional-level role with specialized technical skills in the sports apparel industry in a major metropolitan area like Baltimore. The benefits package is comprehensive, reflecting Under Armour's commitment to employee well-being and financial security.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Sports Apparel & Footwear. Under Armour operates in a highly competitive global market, driven by performance, innovation, and brand connection with athletes.

Company Size: Large enterprise (specific employee count not provided, but Under Armour is a globally recognized brand with thousands of employees). This size suggests structured processes, potential for career mobility, and access to significant resources.

Founded: 1996. Under Armour has a history of disruption and innovation in the athletic apparel space, evolving from its initial concept to a major global player.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of the Lighthouse Innovation Center, a dedicated hub for advanced product development and prototyping.

• This team likely comprises specialists in design, technical design, engineering, materials science, and prototyping.

• Collaboration is key, involving close interaction with designers, engineers, and potentially marketing or product management teams. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Innovation: While this role is hands-on, insights from athlete feedback, performance data, and material science are crucial for informing prototype development.

• Agile Prototyping: Iterative development and rapid testing of concepts are likely core to the innovation process.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Integrated teams work together to move concepts from ideation to tangible prototypes efficiently.

Company Website: https://www.underarmour.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Under Armour's culture emphasizes values like "Act Sustainably," "Celebrate the Wins," and "Love Athletes." The "Lighthouse Innovation Center" suggests a forward-thinking environment focused on pushing boundaries. The company's size implies a structured approach to innovation and product development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a "Professional" level, typically indicating an individual contributor role with specialized technical expertise and a few years of experience. It's a step beyond entry-level but not yet a senior or management position. It focuses on executing complex tasks within a specialized area.

Reporting Structure: The role will report to a manager within the Lighthouse Innovation Center, likely overseeing prototyping, advanced concepts, or product innovation. This manager would typically be a Senior Manager or Director of Innovation/Product Development.

Operations Impact: While not traditional "revenue operations," this role has a significant impact on future revenue by enabling the creation and validation of innovative products that can capture market share and drive sales. It directly contributes to the company's competitive edge and brand perception.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Deepen expertise in specific prototyping techniques, materials, or advanced manufacturing processes.

• Technical Leadership: Transition into roles focused on leading complex prototyping projects or mentoring junior prototypers.

• Product Innovation Path: Move into roles within product design, technical design, or product engineering, leveraging prototyping experience.

• Process Improvement: Contribute to refining and optimizing the innovation and prototyping workflows within the Lighthouse Center.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for this role is heavily geared towards technical specialization and innovation within the product development lifecycle. It offers a clear avenue for individuals passionate about the tangible creation of athletic wear and its underlying technology.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at Under Armour's Baltimore office, which likely includes dedicated innovation lab space ("Lighthouse Innovation Center") equipped with specialized machinery.

Office Location(s): Baltimore, Maryland. This location offers access to a skilled workforce and a vibrant city environment.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will include access to a range of advanced prototyping equipment (laser cutters, industrial sewing machines, heat presses, etc.).

• It's a hands-on environment where collaboration with designers, engineers, and other innovators is frequent and essential.

• The atmosphere is likely dynamic and fast-paced, driven by the nature of innovation and product development cycles.

• Expect a focus on precision, problem-solving, and creative execution.

Work Schedule: The role requires an on-site presence, indicating a typical 40-hour work week within the office premises.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on an "on-site" work schedule and the mention of the "Lighthouse Innovation Center" clearly define a hands-on, collaborative, and technologically rich work environment. This is not a remote-friendly role; it requires physical presence to operate specialized equipment and engage directly with the innovation process.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiting team will review applications and resumes for basic qualifications and fit.

• Technical Interview(s): Expect interviews with hiring managers and/or senior members of the Innovation team. These will focus on your technical skills in prototyping, sewing, equipment operation, and your understanding of sports apparel manufacturing.

• Portfolio Review: You will likely be asked to present your portfolio, showcasing specific projects, your process, and the outcomes. Be prepared to discuss your contributions, challenges, and problem-solving approaches.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Assess your alignment with Under Armour's values (Act Sustainably, Celebrate the Wins, Fight on Together, Love Athletes, Stand for Equality) and your ability to collaborate effectively within a team.

• Potential Practical Assessment: Depending on the role's specifics, there might be a small practical exercise to assess your hands-on skills.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Process, Not Just Product: Detail your thought process, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. Use photos or videos to illustrate your work in progress.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, highlight how your prototypes contributed to design validation, efficiency improvements, or cost savings.

• Tailor to UA: Research Under Armour's current innovations and product lines. Show how your skills and projects align with their brand and future direction.

• Be Ready to Discuss: Prepare to explain your role in each project, the equipment used, and the materials involved.

Challenge Preparation:

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Be ready for questions about how you would approach a specific prototyping challenge (e.g., creating a seamless garment with specific stretch properties).

• Technical Knowledge: Refresh your understanding of industrial sewing techniques, textile properties, and common apparel manufacturing processes.

• Value Alignment: Think about how your approach to work and innovation aligns with Under Armour's stated values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a specialized technical role like this will heavily lean on demonstrating practical skills and a deep understanding of the product creation lifecycle. A strong, well-documented portfolio is paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Industrial Sewing Machines: High-speed, specialized machines for various garment construction techniques.

• Textile Cutting Tables: Precision cutting equipment for fabric pieces.

• Laser Cutting Equipment: For intricate cuts and material modifications.

• Heat Presses: For applying graphics, bonding materials, or creating specific finishes.

• Embroidery Machines: For adding logos and decorative elements.

• Pad Printing Equipment: For applying graphics onto complex surfaces.

• Pattern Making Software: Potentially used for digital pattern creation or modification (e.g., Gerber, Lectra, or similar).

• 3D Design/Prototyping Software: Increasingly used in innovation for digital mock-ups and visualization (e.g., CLO3D, Browzwear).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a direct data analytics role, insights from performance testing, material analysis, and manufacturing efficiency metrics will be crucial.

• Understanding of basic data interpretation to inform iterative design improvements. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core prototyping function, but familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Asana, Jira, Monday.com) that might be used for tracking prototype development progress would be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is heavily reliant on specialized physical tools and equipment. A candidate's familiarity with operating and maintaining these machines, as well as understanding their capabilities and limitations, is critical.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Act Sustainably: Consider material waste, energy usage in prototyping, and sustainable practices in manufacturing recommendations.

• Celebrate the Wins: Acknowledge successful prototype iterations and the collaborative efforts that led to them.

• Fight on Together: Emphasize teamwork, mutual support, and collaborative problem-solving within the innovation team.

• Love Athletes: Focus on how the prototypes directly address athlete needs and enhance performance.

• Stand for Equality: Contribute to an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued in the innovation process.

Collaboration Style:

• Hands-on & Iterative: Expect a dynamic environment where ideas are quickly translated into physical form and refined through continuous feedback.

• Cross-functional Synergy: Close working relationships with designers, technical designers, and engineers are essential for translating concepts into manufacturable products.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing best practices, new techniques, and lessons learned from prototyping challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The integration of Under Armour's core values into the daily work of an innovator is key. This role is not just about technical execution but also about embodying the company's ethos in the pursuit of athletic performance and product excellence.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Vision to Reality: Bridging the gap between abstract design concepts and tangible, functional prototypes can be complex.

• Material & Technique Limitations: Working with new or challenging materials and discovering the best fabrication methods for them.

• Balancing Innovation with Manufacturability: Creating groundbreaking designs while ensuring they can eventually be produced efficiently and at scale.

• Managing Multiple Projects: Juggling various prototype requests and deadlines effectively within a fast-paced innovation environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Fabrication Techniques: Gaining expertise in cutting-edge manufacturing technologies relevant to apparel.

• Material Science Exploration: Deepening knowledge of new and performance-enhancing materials.

• Product Lifecycle Understanding: Gaining broader insight into the entire product development process, from concept to consumer.

• Cross-Disciplinary Skill Development: Learning from designers, engineers, and materials specialists.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role are inherent to innovation – pushing boundaries while staying grounded in practical manufacturing realities. The growth opportunities are geared towards becoming a highly skilled specialist and contributing to the future of athletic product design.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate a complex design concept into a functional prototype. What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?"

• "How do you approach analyzing the 'sew-ability' of a new material or design? What factors do you consider?"

• "Imagine a designer wants to create a garment with extreme stretch and seamless construction. What steps would you take to prototype this concept?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you see your work aligning with Under Armour's values, particularly 'Love Athletes' and 'Act Sustainably'?"

• "Describe your ideal collaborative environment when working on innovative projects."

• "How do you stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in sports apparel innovation and prototyping?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, walk through the initial brief, your problem-solving approach, the technical execution (including equipment/materials), and the final outcome/learnings.

• Highlight Key Skills: Explicitly point out where you demonstrated mastery of specific equipment, materials, or manufacturing techniques.

• Showcase Innovation: Emphasize any original ideas or novel solutions you brought to the prototyping process.

• Be Prepared for Technical Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about the specifics of your techniques and material choices.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating both technical proficiency and a strategic, problem-solving mindset. The portfolio is your primary tool to showcase these abilities, so practicing its presentation is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Professional, Innovation Prototyping position at Under Armour:

• Submit your application through the official Under Armour Careers portal.

• Customize Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience with industrial sewing, prototyping equipment, sports apparel, and any relevant technical skills mentioned in the job description. Quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., "Developed 50+ prototypes for new athletic footwear concepts").

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a digital portfolio that showcases your best work. Include a variety of projects demonstrating your skills in garment construction, material application, and problem-solving. Document your process, not just the final product.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio and answering common interview questions, especially those related to technical challenges and your problem-solving approach.

• Research Under Armour: Familiarize yourself with their latest product innovations, brand values, and the role of their Lighthouse Innovation Center to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

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

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