About Nike

Nike, the world's leading sports brand, is revolutionizing athletic innovation from its global headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon. With a legacy of iconic designs like Air Jordan and Flyknit, Nike invests heavily in digital design excellence to push the boundaries of performance footwear. Our Footwear Digital Design Studio is at the forefront of this transformation, blending traditional craftsmanship with AI-powered workflows to create the future of sportswear.

Role Overview

As Designer II Digital Design Excellence (3D Footwear Design), you'll join Nike's innovative Footwear Digital Design Studio in Beaverton, Oregon. Reporting to a Design Studio Manager or Director, you'll partner directly with Footwear Product Designers on specific Sport teams or priority projects. Your role involves rapidly visualizing concepts in 3D, translating sketches into refined models, and leveraging generative AI and 3D printing to accelerate prototyping. This entry-to-mid-level position is perfect for skilled 3D artists eager to embrace emerging technologies in a collaborative, high-impact environment.

Key Responsibilities

3D Modeling & Visualization

Bring designer visions to life by creating high-quality 3D models for inline projects, hackathons, and priority initiatives. Translate hand sketches into refined 3D concepts, ensuring design intent is captured while identifying potential issues early in the process.

AI-Powered Ideation

Apply generative AI workflows developed by Nike's GenAI team to supercharge creativity. Quickly explore diverse design variations, accelerating ideation from concept to prototype.

Rapid Prototyping

Leverage 3D printing and additive manufacturing to produce physical footwear prototypes, delivering tangible forms that designers can interact with hands-on.

Rendering & Communication

Create professional renderings using library materials and standard setups in tools like Cycles, Arnold, or KeyShot to clearly communicate design direction to stakeholders.

Collaboration & Handoff

Work closely with teammates, development teams, and engineering partners in Asia. Ensure models adhere to engineering best practices and Nike's brand protection standards, including KIT protocols.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education & Experience

A Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design or a related field is preferred, though Nike values any suitable combination of education, experience, and training. 0-2 years in a 3D design role is ideal for this Designer II position.

Technical Skills

Proficiency in poly modeling using industry-standard tools like Maya, Blender, and Rhino is essential. Strong fundamentals in SubD and NURBS modeling, plus experience with rendering packages (Cycles, Arnold, V-Ray, KeyShot). A solid understanding of footwear construction fundamentals—including bite-lines, offsets, nets, and proportions—is required.

Portfolio & Mindset

Submit a portfolio showcasing your ability to design, model, and execute 3D content. You must demonstrate eagerness to learn generative AI tools for concept exploration and a commitment to high craft and production quality.

Benefits & Perks

Nike offers industry-leading benefits to support your professional and personal growth. Enjoy comprehensive health coverage, including medical, dental, and vision plans, plus generous 401(k) matching. Unlimited PTO, paid parental leave, and employee assistance programs promote work-life balance. Campus perks include world-class fitness facilities, on-site dining, and exclusive Nike product discounts. Nike also provides accommodations for candidates with disabilities, ensuring an inclusive hiring process.

Career Growth

This role is a launchpad for advancement within Nike's design organization. Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge AI and 3D technologies while building relationships across Sport teams. High performers advance to senior design roles, leadership positions, or specialized AI integration teams. Nike's culture emphasizes continuous learning, with internal training, mentorship, and hackathon opportunities to fuel your career trajectory.

Professional Development

• Mentorship from Design Directors and Footwear legends
• Access to Nike University courses on AI, 3D printing, and design
• Cross-functional projects with engineering and development

Why Join Us

Be part of Nike's digital transformation in footwear design. Work on projects that reach millions of athletes worldwide, from elite competitors to everyday enthusiasts. Located in Beaverton, Oregon, our headquarters offers a vibrant campus with collaborative studios, innovation labs, and proximity to Portland's creative scene. Join a team that's not just designing shoes—it's redefining sports through technology and creativity.

Role FAQs

What tools will I use daily?

Expect to work primarily in Maya, Blender, Rhino for modeling, with rendering in Cycles, Arnold, V-Ray, or KeyShot. Generative AI tools and 3D printing software are integrated into workflows.

Is prior footwear experience required?

No, but understanding footwear construction fundamentals is essential. We'll provide training to build domain expertise.

What's the team structure?

Small, agile teams aligned to Sport categories or projects, collaborating with Footwear Designers, engineers, and global partners.

How does Nike support learning AI tools?

Direct access to GenAI team workflows, training sessions, and hackathons focused on AI ideation.

This 3D Footwear Design role at Nike offers unparalleled opportunities for creative 3D artists ready to innovate. Apply today and shape the future of athletic performance.