Senior Designer, Digital Design Excellence (3D Footwear Design) at Nike

About Nike

Nike is the global leader in athletic footwear, apparel, and equipment, driven by a passion for innovation and sport. Headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon, Nike employs thousands of creative minds who push the boundaries of design and technology to empower athletes worldwide. As a Senior Designer in Digital Design Excellence, you'll join a dynamic team revolutionizing 3D footwear design, blending cutting-edge AI tools with traditional craftsmanship to bring iconic products to life. Nike's commitment to sustainability, diversity, and breakthrough performance makes it the premier destination for design professionals seeking impact.

Role Overview

This full-time Senior Designer role focuses on 3D Footwear Design within Nike's Digital Design Excellence team. Based in Beaverton, Oregon, you'll work independently on mid-to-high complexity projects, collaborating with Footwear Product Designers, engineers, and Asia manufacturing partners. Harness generative AI to speed up ideation, create production-ready 3D models, and mentor juniors. Ideal for experts in poly modeling and footwear engineering who thrive in fast-paced, innovative environments. Estimated salary: $120,000 - $160,000 USD annually, reflecting senior-level expertise in retail/tech sectors.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you'll deliver exceptional 3D visualizations and production support across sport teams and priority projects. Key duties include:

• Partnering early with Footwear Product Designers to provide feedback, refine concepts, and set design direction.
• Integrating generative AI workflows to explore variations, boost ideation speed, and increase iterations.
• Utilizing 3D printing for rapid prototyping to validate concepts and inform leadership decisions.
• Producing CAD files and technical docs for seamless handoff to Asia factories.
• Identifying and solving manufacturing issues, balancing feasibility with creative intent.
• Mentoring 3D Designer II team members in traditional skills and AI proficiency.
• Working autonomously on inline projects, hackathons, and high-priority initiatives.

Qualifications & Requirements

Nike seeks seasoned 3D designers with footwear expertise. Must-haves include:

• Bachelor's in Industrial Design or equivalent education/experience.
• 4+ years in 3D design roles.
• Expertise in poly modeling using Blender, Maya, Rhino, Grasshopper, and Vizcom.
• Advanced rendering with custom maps (diffuse, normal, bump, alpha).
• Deep knowledge of footwear manufacturing and engineering constraints.
• Proven use of generative AI for creative acceleration.
• 3D printing/additive manufacturing experience.
• Portfolio showcasing high-quality 3D footwear models and executions.

Strong independent problem-solving and mentorship skills are essential.

Benefits & Perks

Nike offers premium benefits to support your success:

• Competitive salary ($120K-$160K est.) plus bonuses and equity.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision coverage.
• 401(k) matching, employee stock purchase, and financial wellness programs.
• Generous PTO, parental leave, and flexible work arrangements.
• On-site fitness centers, athletic facilities, and product discounts up to 50%.
• Tuition reimbursement and leadership development opportunities.

Career Growth

At Nike, your growth is limitless. This senior role positions you for advancement into lead design or creative direction, with access to global projects, hackathons, and cross-functional teams. Nike University provides ongoing training in emerging tech like AI and sustainable manufacturing. Mentorship programs foster leadership, while performance reviews unlock promotions and international rotations. Join alumni who've shaped iconic products like Air Max and Vaporfly.

Why Join Us

Be part of Nike's mission to bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete. Work with world-class tools, collaborate across continents, and influence products worn by millions. Beaverton's campus offers cutting-edge labs, collaborative spaces, and a vibrant culture. Nike values diversity, inclusion, and accommodations throughout hiring, including screen readers and interpreters. Shape the future of footwear design at the industry's pinnacle.

Role FAQs

What software experience is required?

High proficiency in Blender, Maya, Rhino, Grasshopper, and Vizcom for poly modeling and rendering.

Is generative AI experience mandatory?

Yes, proven ability to apply AI workflows for ideation and efficiency is key.

What is the team structure?

Independent work aligned to sport teams, with collaboration on development, engineering, and mentoring juniors.

Are accommodations available?

Yes, Nike provides screen readers, interpreters, captioning, and more—request via the Candidate Accommodation Form.

How do I apply?

Submit your portfolio and resume through Nike's careers portal today.