Materials Research Analyst - Intern

PROGRAM SUMMARY

At Columbia Sportswear, we offer college students an opportunity to join our team and help solve real business problems during our 10‑week summer internship at our Headquarters in Portland, Oregon. Interns gain hands‑on 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 detail‑oriented with an interest in materials and product development
• Organized and able to manage multiple tasks and shifting timelines
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, 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, problem‑solve, 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 10‑week internship program
• Ability to work onsite at our Portland headquarters for the duration of the internship
 

NON‑LOCAL 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.