Lead Apparel Technical Designer - Fit & Construction

Nike Inc; Beaverton (OR); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

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.

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.