NIKE, Inc

Lead, Manufacturing Engineer Automation Solutions Air

NIKE, Inc$110K — $130K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical Engineering, or related field; equivalent experience accepted.
  • Minimum 6 years in automation, robotics, controls, or manufacturing systems.
  • Experience leading automation initiatives from concept to validation.
  • Proficient in developing business cases and technology investment strategies.
  • Strong technical knowledge of robotics and industrial controls.
  • Skilled in influencing stakeholders and communicating across technical and business lines.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and maintain AM93's automation strategy and technology roadmap.
  • Identify and prioritize automation opportunities across various manufacturing processes.
  • Lead technology scouting and collaborate with external partners for emerging automation capabilities.
  • Execute proof-of-concept initiatives to assess technical feasibility and business impact.
  • Create business cases detailing ROI and scalability of automation initiatives.
  • Oversee production-intent design and system architecture for automation solutions.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with manufacturing goals.

Benefits

  • Accommodations for interview processes, including accessible resources and assistance for disabilities.
Full Job Description
WHO YOU'LL WORK WITH

Nike Air Manufacturing & Innovation (Air MI) is transforming manufacturing through automation, robotics, connected systems, and Industry 4.0 capabilities. This role reports directly to the Director, Manufacturing Engineering Automation Global and partners closely with Operations, Process Engineering, Maintenance, Quality, EHS, IT, Product Development Engineering, and external technology partners to define the future of manufacturing at Air MI.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

We are seeking a Lead Automation Engineer to drive the front-end development of Air MI's automation strategy for AM93, our high-volume, low-SKU manufacturing hub. This role is responsible for identifying automation opportunities, developing technology roadmaps, evaluating emerging technologies, building business cases, leading proof-of-concept activities, and creating production-intent designs that improve safety, quality, productivity, and manufacturing flexibility.

This is a highly strategic technical leadership role. The ideal candidate combines strong automation expertise with business acumen and systems thinking. They are comfortable operating in ambiguity, influencing across functions, developing compelling investment cases, and translating long-term manufacturing objectives into executable automation roadmaps.

The successful candidate will play a key role in helping establish AM93 as Air MI's benchmark for smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 adoption while creating scalable solutions that can be replicated across the broader manufacturing network.

Key attributes for this role include:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical Engineering or other manufacturing or related field. Will accept any suitable combination of education, experience and training.
  • Minimum 6 years of experience in automation, robotics, controls, manufacturing systems, or related engineering disciplines.
  • Proven experience leading automation initiatives from concept through pilot validation.
  • Experience developing business cases, capital justifications, and technology investment strategies.
  • Strong technical understanding of robotics, material handling automation, machine vision, industrial controls, and connected manufacturing systems.
  • Demonstrated ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders and communicate effectively with both technical and business audiences.


WHAT YOU'LL WORK ON

As the Lead Automation Engineer, you will define and shape the future automation roadmap for AM93 while building the pipeline of technologies and solutions that support Air MI's long-term manufacturing strategy. You will lead the early phases of the automation lifecycle-from opportunity identification through production-intent design-before partnering with deployment teams to execute and scale successful solutions.

You will:
  • Develop and maintain the AM93 automation strategy and technology roadmap aligned to smart manufacturing objectives.
  • Identify, prioritize, and evaluate automation opportunities across manufacturing, material handling, inspection, packaging, and connected systems.
  • Lead technology scouting activities and engage external partners to identify emerging automation capabilities.
  • Develop and execute proof-of-concept initiatives to validate technical feasibility and business value.
  • Build business cases and investment recommendations, including ROI, implementation strategy, and scalability assessments.
  • Own production-intent design development, system architecture, and deployment standards for future automation initiatives.
  • Partner with Operations, Process Engineering, Maintenance, IT, and Quality to ensure solutions align with manufacturing needs and long-term business objectives.


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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