About Nike

Nike is the world's leading sports brand, dedicated to inspiring every athlete* to reach their potential through innovative products, services, and experiences. With a mission to leverage advanced data and technology, Nike powers personalized consumer journeys and operational excellence globally. The Data & AI (DAI) team at Nike's Tech Center in India is at the forefront of this digital transformation, building scalable platforms that drive decision-making and elevate the athlete experience worldwide.

Role Overview

As a Principal Software Engineer, ITC at Nike in Karnataka, India, you will shape the future of Nike's data-driven ecosystem. This senior leadership role demands a visionary architect with deep expertise in software engineering, AI/ML frameworks, and distributed systems. Reporting into the DAI team, you will guide technical strategy, mentor elite engineers, and collaborate across global boundaries to deliver high-impact solutions. If you thrive in ambiguity, lead through innovation, and are passionate about sport-tech fusion, this is your opportunity to make a global mark at Nike.

Key Responsibilities

In this pivotal role, you will spearhead the design and implementation of robust, secure data and AI platforms at scale. Key duties include architecting cloud-native systems on AWS, Azure, or GCP; championing DevOps practices like CI/CD and IaC; and integrating agentic workflows with AI/LLM technologies. You will mentor senior engineers, foster technical excellence, and align engineering with business goals through agile methodologies. Additionally, oversee project lifecycles, mitigate security risks, and represent India's Tech Center in worldwide collaborations, ensuring Nike remains an industry leader in retail tech.

Technical Leadership

Define architectural visions for complex data platforms using big data tools like Apache Spark, Kafka, and Databricks. Drive automation and optimization for performant, reliable systems.

Stakeholder Collaboration

Partner with product managers, data scientists, and executives to translate strategies into roadmaps, delivering value to athletes and partners.

Qualifications & Requirements

To excel as Nike's Principal Software Engineer, ITC, candidates need a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field, coupled with 12+ years of progressive experience—including 5+ years in principal or senior leadership. Proficiency in Python, Java, Scala, Go, or C++ is essential, alongside expertise in data engineering, ML infrastructure, and cloud architectures. Familiarity with agentic AI workflows, DevOps, security best practices, and agile delivery is required. Exceptional leadership, communication, and a commitment to diversity round out the profile for this high-impact role.

Technical Expertise

Demonstrated success scaling distributed systems, big data pipelines, and enterprise AI applications in fast-paced settings.

Benefits & Perks

Nike offers a premium compensation package tailored for top talent, including competitive base salary estimated at ₹65-95 lakhs annually, performance bonuses, and equity opportunities. Enjoy comprehensive health insurance, wellness programs, and family benefits. Unlimited PTO, flexible hybrid work from Karnataka, and employee discounts on iconic Nike products enhance work-life balance. Access world-class learning platforms, conference budgets, and global mobility programs to fuel your growth.

Career Growth

At Nike, career progression is boundless for high performers. As Principal Software Engineer, you will gain visibility with global leaders, positioning for VP-level roles in Data & AI or Tech leadership. Nike's mentorship culture, paired with stretch assignments on athlete-centric projects, accelerates development. Join a community investing in your success through certifications, hackathons, and leadership training, ensuring long-term impact in sport technology.

Why Join Us

Be part of Nike's mission to transform sport through technology. Work in India's vibrant Tech Center, collaborating with diverse, passionate teams on platforms serving billions. Influence decisions affecting athletes worldwide, from personalized experiences to operational innovations. Nike's inclusive environment values bold ideas, rewards excellence, and empowers you to lead change at scale. This is more than a job—it's a platform to architect the future of retail tech with the Swoosh.

Role FAQs

What experience level is required?

12+ years in software engineering, with 5+ in senior/principal roles focusing on data platforms and AI.

Is relocation support provided?

Nike offers relocation assistance for qualified candidates moving to Karnataka, India.

What tech stack will I work with?

Core stack includes Python/Java, Spark/Kafka/Databricks, AWS/GCP, and AI/LLM frameworks for agentic apps.

How does Nike support work-life balance?

Hybrid model, unlimited PTO, wellness stipends, and flexible hours prioritize your well-being.

What is the interview process?

Multi-stage: resume screen, technical deep-dive, leadership case, stakeholder panel, and cultural fit.

*Athlete includes our employees, customers, and communities we serve.