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: Quality Assurance 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.

As a Quality Assurance Intern, you’ll get up close with the footwear that brings KEEN Quality to life. You’ll explore how materials, construction, fit, craftsmanship, and function come together in every pair. You’ll help the team turn observations into action, support daily quality work, and take on a meaningful summer project that improves the tools and documentation the team uses everyday to drive quality and continuous improvement.

Essential Responsibilities

Evaluate footwear samples for quality materials, construction, appearance, craftsmanship, and function.
Prepare samples for quality reviews and product-testing activities
Help identify recurring defects or quality trends and participate in problem-solving discussions with the team.
Support follow-up on quality concerns and help communicate findings to cross-functional partners.
Assist with quality reporting, data organization, and summaries or presentations for the team.
Help refresh the Quality Manual by reviewing and organizing procedures, standards, and reference materials and incorporating approved updates.
Join quality reviews and cross-functional discussions to see how quality requirements come to life throughout product development and production.
Jump into other quality-related projects and team needs as they arise.

Minimum Qualifications

Currently pursuing or recently completed a bachelor’s degree in Product Development, Footwear or Apparel Design, Product Management, Manufacturing, 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.
Passion for footwear, product quality, materials, construction, and how products are made.
Strong attention to detail and ability to identify and document observations accurately.
Strong organization, communication, and collaboration skills.

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.