Innovation Developer - Waterbury, VT

The Company:

Founded in 1978, Cabot Hosiery Mills is an American manufacturer of premium socks with uncompromised comfort, durability, and fit.  With a family of brands including Darn Tough Vermont, Wide Open, and Cabot & Sons, our mission is to make the world’s best socks, in Vermont, USA and back them with our Unconditional Lifetime Guarantee.  We are family owned, three generations strong and have yet to produce our best sock. 

Job Summary:

At Cabot Hosiery Mills, we’re driven by craftsmanship, purpose, and a relentless pursuit of better.

As one of the fastest-growing performance sock brands, we’re looking for an Innovation Developer to bring new ideas to life — transforming imagination into durable, high-performing products built to outlast and outperform.

This role sits at the intersection of design, product development, and innovation — where creativity meets technical excellence.

You’ll lead the development of forward-thinking prototypes that push the limits of materials, machine capabilities, and sustainable innovation.

As a key connector across Design, Product Development, and Manufacturing, the Innovation Developer will explore what’s possible, challenge assumptions, and champion ideas that enhance comfort, durability, fit, and function — the foundation of everything we make.

If you love the process of discovery, thrive in a fast-moving environment, and find joy in turning ideas into tangible, testable realities, this role was made for you.

Compensation for this role is $80,000- $90,000 annually, based on experience. 

Key Responsibilities:


* Partner with the VP of Product and Innovation, Design Manager, and Product Development Manager to build prototypes that explore future-focused stitch constructions, machine capabilities, and new technologies.


* Stay informed and inspired by outdoor and sportswear trends, athlete needs, and emerging technologies that influence how people move and perform.


* Attend tradeshows, vendor meetings, and innovation workshops to scout new ideas and technologies that could elevate our products and processes.


* Collaborate closely with Product Developers and the Samples Team to evolve prototypes that align with design intent, brand direction, and functional goals.


* Lead fit sessions using live models to assess comfort, performance, and durability.

Iterate based on wear trials and testing to refine every detail.


* Translate innovation into stories — partnering with design and marketing to connect technical advancements to brand narratives and business opportunities.


* Partner with Sourcing to identify and test new materials that drive innovation while supporting lean manufacturing, cost targets, and sustainability initiatives.

(Experience with Merino wool and natural fibers is a plus.)


* Work with the Sustainability Team to integrate responsible innovation that reduces impact while enhancing product longevity.


* Partner with quality, so...