About Nike

Nike is the global leader in athletic footwear, apparel, equipment, and accessories, inspiring athletes worldwide with its iconic 'Just Do It' ethos. Headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon, Nike employs over 80,000 people across the globe, driving innovation in sport and culture. As a pioneer in design and technology, Nike continuously pushes boundaries to create products that enhance athletic performance and style. Joining Nike means becoming part of a dynamic team that shapes the future of sport, from elite athletes to everyday enthusiasts. The Energy White Space team exemplifies Nike's commitment to trailblazing creativity, fostering environments where visionary designers redefine what's possible in footwear and apparel graphic design.

Role Overview

The Lead Designer, Energy White Space Footwear & Apparel Graphic Design role at Nike in Beaverton, Oregon, is for an exceptional talent ready to lead the charge in creating disruptive, culturally relevant visuals. Reporting to the Energy White Space director, you'll spearhead projects that excite the next generation of designers and athletes. This position demands a high taste level, fluency in collaboration, and a visionary approach to innovation. You'll work on collaborative and independent initiatives, developing graphics, trims, and expanded design elements that blend performance with aesthetics. If you're a curious observer passionate about visual culture, this full-time role offers the platform to trailblaze Nike's design future.

Key Responsibilities

In this leadership role, you'll drive edge and innovation across Nike's visual landscape. Key responsibilities include implementing culturally relevant innovations from concept to execution, crafting visual languages for footwear and apparel, and co-creating with high-caliber external and internal partners. You'll translate insights into compelling narratives, handle trims creation, and ensure graphic execution aligns with project intent across diverse product types. Expect to thrive in fast-paced environments, adapting to multiple priorities while presenting design concepts to stakeholders. As a key voice, you'll inspire teams, push creative boundaries, and elevate inclusivity in every project.

Collaboration and Innovation

Work closely with designers, developers, product managers, engineers, and external collaborators to bring fresh ideas to market. Your role involves fostering trust, seamlessly translating between worlds, and championing new aesthetics that disrupt and redefine Nike's design language.

Execution Excellence

From sketching and layout to final production, proficiently manage graphic applications, typography, patterns, and color theory. Proficiency in apparel product creation processes ensures your work delivers performance and visual impact.

Qualifications & Requirements

To succeed, candidates need a Bachelor’s degree in graphic design or equivalent experience, plus 5+ years in graphic design, ideally in product creation or agencies. Key traits include a positive personality, passion for design trends and visual culture, and strategic curiosity. Proficiency in Adobe CC, sketching, illustration, print/pattern, color theory, layout, and typography is essential. Strong communication skills for presenting to diverse audiences, adaptability to change, and experience with internal/external partners are required. Highlighting diverse viewpoints and interest in product design round out the profile for this premium Nike opportunity.

Benefits & Perks

Nike offers industry-leading benefits to support your well-being and growth. Enjoy comprehensive health coverage, including medical, dental, and vision plans, plus mental health resources. Generous paid time off, parental leave, and flexible work options promote work-life balance. Employees receive exclusive discounts on Nike products, fostering a culture of athletic passion. Professional development programs, tuition reimbursement, and retirement savings with company matching empower your career. On-site fitness centers, wellness programs, and team-building events in Beaverton enhance daily life. Nike's commitment to inclusivity includes accommodations for disabilities during hiring.

Career Growth

At Nike, career progression is fueled by innovation and mentorship. As Lead Designer in Energy White Space, you'll gain exposure to elite creative networks, positioning you for advancement into senior design leadership or cross-functional roles. Nike invests in talent through leadership training, global rotations, and innovation labs. Past White Space alumni have shaped blockbuster product lines and ascended to director levels. With a focus on continuous learning, this role builds expertise in emerging trends, digital tools, and strategic design, opening doors to influence Nike's global portfolio.

Why Join Us

Join Nike's Energy White Space to work with the most creative minds in sport design. Beaverton’s state-of-the-art campus offers cutting-edge facilities, collaborative spaces, and proximity to Portland's vibrant culture. Shape products that inspire millions, collaborate on boundary-pushing projects, and contribute to Nike's legacy of disruption. With a premium culture emphasizing trust, inclusivity, and high performance, this role delivers purpose, impact, and excitement. Nike values diverse perspectives, ensuring every voice drives innovation. Seize this chance to redefine footwear and apparel graphics at the world's top sports brand.

Role FAQs

What is Energy White Space at Nike?

Energy White Space is Nike's innovation hub, focused on trailblazing products and projects to attract top talent and shape design's future through edge and experimentation.

Is remote work available?

This role is based in Beaverton, Oregon, with potential hybrid flexibility aligned to Nike's policies.

What salary can I expect?

Estimated $120,000 - $170,000 USD yearly, based on experience, with performance incentives.

How does Nike support diversity?

Nike fosters inclusivity, elevating diverse viewpoints and providing accommodations for accessibility.

What tools will I use?

Primarily Adobe CC, plus schematic tools, PR software, and apparel creation processes.