NIKE, Inc

Lead Footwear Materials Developer, Energy

NIKE, Inc$100K — $130K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5+ years of experience in materials development, preferably in footwear or apparel
  • Strong collaboration skills with cross-functional teams
  • Proficiency in translating design concepts into tangible materials
  • Experience managing prototypes and laboratory testing
  • Knowledge of sustainability practices in material sourcing

Responsibilities

  • Lead the materials creation process from concept to commercial readiness
  • Collaborate daily with cross-functional teams to deliver material solutions
  • Translate 2D designs into 3D material applications
  • Manage and interpret prototype, sample, and lab testing results
  • Drive sustainability and material strategy initiatives
  • Engage with external vendors to ensure material feasibility and pricing
  • Document material data for commercialization and supply chain success

Benefits

  • Accommodations provided for interview processes
  • Access to assistive technology during interviews
  • Supportive work environment for individuals with disabilities
  • Opportunity for mentorship and professional growth within the organization
  • Engagement in sustainability initiatives impacting material development
Full Job Description
WHO YOU'LL WORK WITH

This role sits within Nike's Materials Development function, partnering closely with Product Management, Product Development, Design, Engineering, Product Testing, Planning, and Supply Chain. The Lead Materials Developer works cross-functionally across Energy Footwear, collaborates directly with external material vendors, and mentors junior materials developers while reporting into senior materials leadership.

WHAT YOU'LL WORK ON

You'll lead materials development for some of Nike Energy Footwear's most visible and demanding projects, driving material readiness from early concept through commercialization. Your work ensures materials deliver on design intent, performance, cost, quality, and sustainability-on time and at scale.
  • Lead the end-to-end materials creation process, from concept development through commercial readiness
  • Partner daily with Design, Product Development, Engineering, Testing, Planning, and Sourcing teams to deliver aligned solutions
  • Translate 2D design intent into 3D material executions that meet athlete, consumer, and business needs
  • Manage prototypes, samples, and lab testing, interpreting results to resolve performance and quality challenges
  • Drive material strategies across palettes, sustainability initiatives, and product creation tools
  • Collaborate directly with vendors to ensure technical feasibility, pricing alignment, and scalable manufacturing routes
  • Maintain clear documentation and material data to support commercialization and long-term supply chain success


We offer a number of accommodations to complete our interview process including screen readers, sign language interpreters, accessible and single location for in-person interviews, closed captioning, and other reasonable modifications as needed. If you discover, as you navigate our application process, that you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please complete the Candidate Accommodation Request Form.

About NIKE, Inc

Nike is a sporting goods company that designs, develops, and markets footwear, apparel, equipment, and accessory products. The company offers various categories of shoes including running, training, basketball, soccer, sport-inspired urban shoes, and kids' shoes. It also provides shoes for aquatic activities, baseball, football, cheerleading, golf, lacrosse, outdoor activities, skateboarding, tennis, volleyball, walking, wrestling, and various athletic and recreational uses. In addition, the company offers sports-inspired lifestyle apparel, athletic bags, and accessory items. Further, it provides a line of performance equipment including bags, socks, sports balls, eyewear, timepieces, electronic devices, bats, gloves, protective equipment, golf clubs, and various equipment designed for sports activities under the NIKE brand name, as well as markets apparel with licensed college and professional team and league logos. Additionally, it offers licenses to produce and sell NIKE brand swimwear, children's apparel, training equipment, eyewear, electronic devices, and golf accessories. The company also markets its products under the brand names of Converse, Chuck Taylor, All Star, One Star, Umbro, Jack Purcell, Cole Haan, Bragano, and Hurley. It sells its products to retail accounts through stores, independent distributors, and licensees, as well as through its Website, nikestore.com. As of May 31, 2009, Nike, Inc. operated 338 retail stores in the United States and 336 retail stores internationally. The company was founded in 1964 and is headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon.

Nike Careers

Join the dynamic world of Nike, Inc., a global leader in sports apparel and innovation, where your career can flourish in an environment that fosters diversity, leadership, and growth. At Nike, we believe in bringing out the best in our team members through continuous professional development and a culture that celebrates creativity and innovation. Work You’ll Do Become a part of Nike’s mission to inspire and innovate towards a better world. Engage in work that intersects with cutting-edge technology, market-leading strategies, and sustainable practices that define the future of the sports industry. Lead with us at the forefront of the global marketplace, where your skills in leadership, teamwork, and innovation can shine. Nike offers a unique position in the industry, combining deep industry expertise with a relentless pursuit of excellence. Collaborate with a diverse team of professionals who are pioneers in their fields. Nike, Inc. employs over 75,000 passionate and talented individuals worldwide, all dedicated to moving the world of sports forward. Introducing Nike’s Professional Growth and Development Opportunities We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every team member can succeed. Nike offers a variety of job opportunities, from in-store retail positions to corporate roles in design, marketing, and technology. Do Innovative Work Join us and contribute to our mission of bringing inspiration and innovation to every athlete* in the world. (*If you have a body, you are an athlete.) Deliver targeted solutions and drive innovation through your unique perspective and skills. At Nike, Inc., your work directly contributes to our global impact. Be Part of a Great Team Engage in meaningful work that connects with consumers and impacts millions worldwide. Our team benefits from unparalleled capabilities, a commitment to diversity training, and a culture that encourages professional growth and networking. Future-Proof Your Career Advance your career with Nike’s comprehensive benefits and support systems. We provide extensive training, development programs, and leadership courses to help you reach your full potential. Explore Discover how Nike is leading in sustainable innovation and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the sports industry. The Nike Employment Experience Our combined efforts in innovation, culture, and leadership make Nike, Inc. not just a place to work, but a place to grow a rewarding career. Clients and employees alike look to Nike for new strategies and impactful solutions in a rapidly evolving industry. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search for open positions that match your skills and interests. We are always on the lookout for curious, driven, creative, and solution-oriented team players. SEARCH NIKE JOBS Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, the latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Explore the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Nike, Inc.
Learn more about NIKE, Inc
Size
73,300 employees
Market Cap
$184.6 billion
Industry
Net Income
$2.8 billion
Founded
1964
5 Year Trend
+6.3%
Revenue
$38.2 billion
NASDAQ

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