FIL-Maker Lab Assistant Intern

Portland, OR April 16, 2026

Are you passionate about sandals, boots, and everything in between? Do you live and breathe sustainability? Do you have a creative eye, a hunger to learn, and a KEEN interest in the outdoor industry? If you said yes to any of the above, we have the perfect opportunity for you!

Position: FIL-Maker Lab Assistant Intern
Location: KEEN - Swan Island (on-site)
Duration: 14 weeks
Compensation: $22/hour
Program Duration: Monday, May 18th – Friday, August 21st

What You'll Do

As an Intern at KEEN (KEENtern), you’ll dive into the exciting world of footwear, innovation, and community! You’ll get hands-on experience working alongside industry experts and contribute to shaping the future of KEEN.

The primary purpose of this position is to support the Maker Lab and the Footwear Innovation Lab team by learning how to pre/post process 3D prints and rapid prototypes, manage the 3D Print Queue, and help deliver finished prototypes to our inline product team and the Innovation group. There will also be opportunities to take part in and contribute to design and innovation discussions, design and create hand crafted or 3D printed prototypes, and present ideations/concepts.

Essential Responsibilities

3D Print Queue management
Preparing 3D files for printing
Post-processing finished prints (cleaning, curing and polishing)
Delivering finished prints/prototypes
Take part in and contribute to advanced concepts discussions
3D/2D ideation
Hand fabrication, cutting, sewing, sculpting
Cleaning/organizing and other general lab duties

What We’re Looking For:

We’re seeking someone who embodies our passion for creativity, sustainability, and the great outdoors. Our ideal KEENtern is:

Passionate: Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, committed to sustainability, or fascinated by footwear trends and innovation, you’re excited to engage with the world around you.
Creatively Minded: You’re detail-oriented, love bringing fresh ideas to life, and have a knack for solving problems.
A Strong Communicator: Whether it’s collaborating with a team or presenting ideas, you know how to express yourself clearly and effectively.
Proactive & Eager to Learn: You’re curious, ready to ask questions, take initiative, and dive into new challenges with enthusiasm.

Who You Are

Bachelor's Degree in related field required.
Must be enrolled or recent graduate from Footwear, Accessories, Fashion or Industrial Design Program.
Must be able to dedicate 40 hours/week toward the internship during normal M-F PST working hours (14 weeks)
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
Exceptional attention to detail in composing, typing and proofing materials.
Strong organizational and prioritization skills.
Ability to learn new software programs.
Ability to solve problems with a positive attitude.
Ability to work independently and on tight deadlines.
Able to sit and/or stand at a desk and use a computer for extended periods of time.
Proficient with Microsoft Office programs, including Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Have some 3D modeling, 3D printing and rapid prototyping experience
Have 2D, 3D and physical ideation skills

Why Intern with Us?

Being a KEENtern means you’re not just an intern—you’re a valued part of our KEEN community. Here’s what you can look forward to:

Meaningful Work: Tackle real-world projects that make an impact, gaining valuable hands-on experience at a globally recognized brand.
Collaborative Environment: Partner with talented teammates and work on in a group project with other KEENterns.
Networking Opportunities: Build connections with industry experts and mentors who can help shape your career.
Perks & Benefits: Enjoy product discounts, a subsidized cafeteria, and an inspiring workspace.
Outdoor Adventures: Immerse yourself in Portland – a vibrant city nestled between the mountains and the coast – a hub for all things outdoors, such as hiking, biking, rafting, camping, and climbing.

Program Requirements:

To qualify for this internship, you must:

Be a Junior, Senior, or Graduate student
Be eligible to work in the U.S.
Commit to a 14-week program from mid-May through mid-August
Dedicate 40 hours per week during standard M-F, PST working hours
All roles are located in Portland, OR. Must be able to move to Portland during the duration of the internship if you are not already living here.
Plan no more than four total days of vacation during the internship

Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re ready to take your passions to the next level and be part of a world-class team, please apply.

Other Requirements

Please note this job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without cause.

Fuerst Group, KEEN and Chrome are equal opportunity employers. We value an inclusive and diverse community. Qualified candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply and will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability.