Lead Materials Developer: Training Footwear Innovation

Nike Inc; Beaverton (OR); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Nike Inc. is seeking a Lead Materials Developer to drive advanced material strategies for Training Footwear from concept through commercialization. You will lead cross‑functional teams across Design, Engineering, and Manufacturing to turn concepts into differentiated, high‑performance products.

The ideal candidate brings deep materials expertise, 6+ years of experience, and a track record mentoring teammates, with strong analytical and communication skills and travel up to 15%.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials, Chemistry, Product Development, or related field; will accept related experience.

Responsibilities

• Define and drive material strategies enabling athlete-focused innovation and product distinction.
• Partner with Design, Product Management, Footwear Development, Engineering, Product Testing, PMO, PCC teams, vendors and Manufacturing to bring concepts to life.
• Lead material selection, sourcing, validation, and commercialization to ensure material and product readiness.
• Drive material innovation opportunities improving performance, sustainability, quality and value.
• Identify risks early and lead cross‑functional solutions across product creation, vendor and manufacturing partners.
• Influence material decisions balancing athlete needs, business objectives, and operational realities.
• Build strong partnerships with suppliers and manufacturing teams to speed execution.
• Keep abreast of market trends, new technology and training industry knowledges.
• Mentor and develop teammates while growing the Materials Development function.

Skills

Materials development

Cross-functional leadership

Project management

Analytical thinking

Mentoring

Communication

Manufacturing processes

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Materials or related field

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Nike Inc. is seeking a Lead Materials Developer to drive advanced material strategies for Training Footwear from concept through commercialization. You will lead cross‑functional teams across Design, Engineering, and Manufacturing to turn concepts into differentiated, high‑performance products.

The ideal candidate brings deep materials expertise, 6+ years of experience, and a track record mentoring teammates, with strong analytical and communication skills and travel up to 15%.