NIKE, Inc

Lead Technical Designer, Local Creation Apparel (multiple openings)

NIKE, Inc • $100K — $120K *
Retail & Consumer Goods
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Apparel Design, Textile Science, or related field; equivalent experience accepted.
  • Minimum of 6 years of relevant work experience.
  • Experience in developing performance apparel is preferred.
  • Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Ability to interpret design intent and propose alternative solutions.
  • Expertise in product specifications and technical documentation.
  • Experience collaborating with factory vendors to enhance product quality.
  • Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, CAD software, and 3D apparel development platforms.

Responsibilities

  • Lead technical design and development of apparel products for Nike's North America Local Creation team.
  • Collaborate with Design, Product Management, and Product Development to align on consumer insights and design intent.
  • Create and maintain technical documentation, including Tech Packs and product specifications.
  • Establish and execute fit and construction standards across product categories.
  • Manage prototyping processes and resolve technical and manufacturing challenges.
  • Monitor product progress and communicate updates to stakeholders.
  • Serve as a trusted technical expert, influencing partners and leading initiatives for product excellence.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to shape new working methods and influence product creation processes.
  • Collaborative environment with cross-functional teams.
  • Chance to work on innovative performance apparel products.
  • Exposure to emerging technologies and market trends.
  • Potential for professional growth and development within the company.
Full Job Description
We are hiring for multiple open Lead Technical Designer, Local Creation Apparel positions.

WHO YOU'LL WORK WITH

You will collaborate closely with Design, Product Management, Product Development, Materials, Manufacturing, and other cross-functional partners to execute against product development, fit, and commercialization objectives.

This role reports to the Senior Manager, Technical Design.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

The Lead Technical Designer owns fit, construction, and technical execution from concept through commercialization and production for assigned styles, ensuring on-time delivery against key milestones while meeting product quality, performance, sustainability, and profitability objectives.

This role is responsible for creating and maintaining technical documentation for complex apparel styles, including Tech Packs, product specifications, and prototype notes. The Lead Technical Designer establishes and executes fit and construction standards across a product category or team, driving consistency, quality, and manufacturability throughout the product creation process.

You will manage and facilitate prototyping, identify and resolve technical and manufacturing challenges, and proactively mitigate risks to deliver proven, tested products. You will monitor product progress, communicate key updates and issues to stakeholders, and ensure product integrity standards are achieved throughout development.

The ideal candidate stays connected to consumer needs, market trends, emerging technologies, and business priorities, using those insights to inform product decisions and drive continuous improvement. You will serve as a trusted technical expert, positively influencing partners and leading initiatives that elevate team capability and product excellence.

  • Bachelor's degree in Apparel Design, Textile Science or related field. Will accept any suitable combination of education, experience, and training
  • A minimum of 6 years directly relevant work experience
  • Experience developing performance apparel preferred.
  • Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to interpret design intent, propose alternative solutions, and serve as a trusted technical resource.
  • Expertise in developing product specifications, construction standards, and technical documentation.
  • Experience partnering with factory vendors and manufacturing teams to improve product quality and manufacturability.
  • Proven ability to lead multiple projects and initiatives that enhance team capabilities and business outcomes.
  • Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, CAD pattern design software, and 3D apparel development platforms such as CLO or Browzwear strongly preferred.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
  • Ability to travel up to 10% domestically and internationally.


WHAT YOU'LL WORK ON

In this role, you will lead the technical design and development of apparel products within Nike's North America Local Creation team. Working closely with Design, Product Management, and Product Development, you will translate consumer insights and design intent into technically sound, commercially viable products tailored to local marketplace needs.

You will have a unique opportunity to help shape new ways of working, influence evolving product creation processes, and build capabilities that accelerate the growth and impact of the Local Creation product engine.

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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