About Nike

Nike is the global leader in athletic footwear, apparel, and equipment, empowering athletes worldwide through innovation, design, and storytelling. Headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon, Nike's Nike SB division fuels the skateboarding culture with products that blend performance, style, and sustainability. As a pioneer in sportswear, Nike invests in cutting-edge materials and collaborative partnerships to redefine what's possible in footwear design.

Role Overview

The Lead Designer, NSW SB Footwear Materials Design role at Nike in Beaverton, Oregon, is your chance to shape the future of skateboarding footwear. Reporting to the Design Director, you'll lead material innovations for Nike SB's NSW and lifestyle segments. This full-time position demands a creative problem-solver passionate about skate culture, sustainability, and consumer-driven narratives. Collaborate with engineers, researchers, marketers, and external partners to deliver trend-relevant, performance-driven materials that create emotional connections for athletes and fans.

Key Responsibilities

In this dynamic role, you'll drive product excellence across Nike SB footwear. Key responsibilities include:

• Developing concepts and material designs for new models, seasonal updates, and iconic classics.
• Partnering cross-functionally with engineers, scientists, sustainability experts, and costing teams.
• Elevating technologies that push sustainable footwear boundaries while embedding cultural storytelling.
• Mentoring junior designers and fostering team culture within the design community.
• Translating consumer insights into innovative solutions that enhance athlete experiences.

Daily work involves prototyping, tech packs, and presentations, ensuring every material choice aligns with Nike's vision for performance and trend leadership.

Qualifications & Requirements

Nike seeks exceptional talent with:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design or equivalent education/experience.
• 5-7 years in innovative footwear and product design.
• Deep immersion in skateboarding culture and its adjacent communities.
• Expertise in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and presentation tools like Keynote and PowerPoint.
• Proficiency in creating accurate 2D technical drawings (tech packs).
• Bonus: Cobbling/prototyping skills, manufacturing knowledge, and sustainable design experience.

Leadership qualities are essential: passion for mentoring, open-mindedness, courage in feedback, and ability to connect diverse teams. If you're motivated to elevate Nike SB, this is your platform.

Benefits & Perks

Joining Nike means accessing world-class benefits tailored for innovators:

• Competitive salary estimated at $120,000-$170,000 USD annually, reflecting senior design leadership in Beaverton.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and wellness programs.
• Employee discounts on Nike products and exclusive SB collaborations.
• Flexible work options, parental leave, and professional development stipends.
• On-site fitness centers, innovation labs, and campus perks in Nike's World Headquarters.

Nike prioritizes inclusivity, offering accommodations like screen readers and sign language interpreters during interviews.

Career Growth

This Lead Designer role is a launchpad for senior leadership in Nike's design ecosystem. Mentor teams, influence global products, and grow into Design Director positions. Nike's culture emphasizes continuous learning, with internal mobility across SB, NSW, and broader footwear divisions. Access training in sustainable materials, computational design, and leadership programs to accelerate your trajectory.

Pathways in Nike SB

Excel here to lead major collaborations or spearhead sustainability initiatives, contributing to Nike's 2025 carbon-neutral goals while shaping skateboarding's future.

Why Join Us

Be part of a creative, collaborative space that drives Nike's storytelling through skateboarding. Work on coveted projects with external partners, innovate sustainable materials, and impact millions of consumers. Nike SB isn't just a team—it's a culture-driven force fueling the brand's authenticity. In Beaverton, enjoy Oregon's outdoor lifestyle, proximity to skate spots, and Nike's vibrant campus. Stand out by pushing design edges, mentoring talent, and creating products that resonate emotionally.

Role FAQs

What experience level is required?

5-7 years in footwear design, with skate culture expertise. Equivalent combinations of education and training are welcome.

Is sustainability a focus?

Yes, roles emphasize sustainable materials and manufacturing to meet Nike's environmental commitments.

What tools will I use daily?

Primarily Photoshop, Illustrator for tech packs, and presentation software. Prototyping skills enhance your impact.

How does this role support leadership?

Directly mentor designers, report to the Design Director, and catalyze cross-team connections.

What's the location setup?

Based in Beaverton, Oregon, at Nike World Headquarters, with collaborative team environments.

Ready to design the future of Nike SB? Apply now and unleash your creativity.