Performance Testing & Validation Intern

Location: Portland, OR Department: Product Development

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: Performance Testing & Validation Intern Location: KEEN’s Global Headquarters in Portland, Oregon (on-site) Duration: 10 weeks Compensation: $22/hour Program Duration: Monday, June 14th – Friday, August 20th

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.

You'll be embedded within the Performance Innovation & Validation team, supporting the Sr. Performance Innovation & Validation Manager in building and refining the seasonal processes and workflows that power KEEN's product testing and validation engine. From helping organize wear test logistics to synthesizing tester feedback into clear summaries, you'll play a real role in how KEEN evaluates and improves its performance footwear — season by season.

Essential Responsibilities

Support the development and documentation of seasonal wear test processes and workflows, helping to ensure consistency across each testing round

Assist in coordinating seasonal field testing logistics, including sample tracking, tester communications, and feedback collection

Help build and maintain organizational tools (trackers, calendars, templates) that support the seasonal validation calendar and testing pipeline

Compile and organize qualitative and quantitative feedback from wear testers into clear, structured summaries for the product team

Assist in preparing materials and recaps for seasonal testing reviews, including formatting insights, organizing data, and supporting presentation development

Support coordination with external testing partners (e.g., field testers, labs) by helping manage scheduling, sample intake documentation, and follow-up communications

Contribute to the research and development of feedback tools and testing protocols that support athlete and consumer insights gathering

Assist with logistics planning and preparation for team testing events and roundtables

Minimum Qualifications

Currently pursuing or recently completed a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, Biomechanics, Exercise Science, Sports Science, Product Management, or a related field.

Must be enrolled in an accredited college or university at the Junior, Senior, or Graduate level. You will also be considered if you have recently graduated from an accredited college or university.

Must be able to work 40 hours/week during the internship program during normal working hours (Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM) and be available to work in the office 5 days/week.

Demonstrated interest in product testing, performance research, or footwear/apparel innovation.

Familiarity with organizing and synthesizing data or feedback — experience with spreadsheets, surveys, or research tools is a plus.

Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple tasks and timelines simultaneously.

Comfortable working in a cross-functional environment and communicating with a variety of stakeholders.

A self-starter attitude — you're proactive, organized, and don't wait to be told what needs doing.

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.

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 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 working toward a degree in Kinesiology, Biomechanics, Exercise Science, Sports Science, Product Management, or a related field.

Be eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Commit to a 10-week program from mid-June through mid-August.

Dedicate 40 hours per week during standard M-F work week.

This is an onsite role located at our beautiful headquarters office in Portland, OR.

Plan no more than four total days of vacation during the internship.

Demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office programs, including Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint.

Able to learn and adapt quickly to new software and tools.

Demonstrate strong verbal and written communication skills, strong attention to detail in preparation of presentations, reports, and materials.

Demonstrate strong organization skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks.

Proven ability