Footwear Materials Developer: Lead Materials Innovation

LiveHire Limited; Beaverton, Northern (OR, KY); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

NIKE, Inc. in Beaverton, OR is hiring a Materials Developer to lead the development of footwear materials from concept through commercialization, collaborating with Design, Product Development, Engineering, Sourcing, Manufacturing, and Materials Design teams.

The role emphasizes cross‑functional teamwork, rigorous material specification, and data‑driven problem solving to deliver innovative, sustainable material solutions within timelines.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Textile Engineering, Materials Science or related field.
• 2+ years in materials development or related footwear/apparel industry.
• Understanding of product lifecycle from concept to commercialization.
• Knowledge of textiles, leathers, synthetics, or related materials.
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with PLM or material management systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Manage development of materials from concept through commercialization.
• Partner with Design, Product Development, Merchandising, Engineering, Sourcing, Manufacturing, and Materials Design teams to deliver innovative material solutions.
• Collaborate with vendors to develop, test, and refine materials that meet quality, performance, cost, and sustainability goals.
• Track and facilitate prototype and sample development, identifying and resolving technical or manufacturing challenges.
• Create and maintain material specifications, documentation, and development records to support commercialization.
• Monitor material testing and communicate risks, challenges, and recommendations to ensure product integrity and readiness.
• Research industry trends, emerging technologies, and consumer insights to identify new material opportunities and drive innovation.
• Support material selection by balancing design intent, functionality, manufacturability, profitability, and sustainability.
• Partner with manufacturing and sourcing teams to support material costing, production readiness, and successful commercialization.

Skills

Problem solving

Communication

Collaboration

Multitasking

Attention to detail

Innovation mindset

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree in Textile Engineering / Materials Science / related field

Equivalent combination of education and experience

Tools

PLM systems

Job description

NIKE, Inc. in Beaverton, OR is hiring a Materials Developer to lead the development of footwear materials from concept through commercialization, collaborating with Design, Product Development, Engineering, Sourcing, Manufacturing, and Materials Design teams.

The role emphasizes cross‑functional teamwork, rigorous material specification, and data‑driven problem solving to deliver innovative, sustainable material solutions within timelines.