Lead Materials Developer - Energy Apparel

Nike • Beaverton, OR

2d

About The Position

The Lead Materials Developer sits within Nike’s Global Apparel Materials Development Team (GLAM) and works day-to-day with a division of the Nike Energy team. The role explores apparel material and trim concepts, from trends to technological advances, to support athlete experiences ranging from one-of-one to commercial solutions. It serves as a strategic materials advisor, applying technical expertise and translating insights into innovative solutions aligned with product goals.

The Lead Materials Developer drives material development from concept through commercialization in partnership with vendors and manufacturing teams, and maintains a clear understanding of how materials perform when integrated into garments. The role collaborates across Design, Product Management, Technical Development, Color Development, Sourcing, and Manufacturing; leads testing, risk assessment, tracking, and validation; and provides technical guidance and mentorship to teammates. The position also translates trends, athlete insights, and emerging technologies into development strategies and champions material innovation initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Textile Science, Apparel, or a related field; a suitable combination of education, experience, and training will be accepted.
• At least 5 years of apparel industry experience, or at least 7 years of experience in lieu of a degree.
• Expertise across yarns, knitting, weaving, dyeing, printing, and finishing techniques.
• Experience developing or sourcing trims.
• Proficiency working with vendors from concept through production.

Responsibilities

• Explore apparel material and trim concepts informed by trends and technological advancements.
• Serve as a strategic materials advisor, providing technical expertise and translating insights into innovative solutions aligned with product goals.
• Drive material development from concept through commercialization in partnership with vendors and manufacturing teams.
• Maintain an understanding of material performance when integrated into garment form.
• Collaborate with Design, Product Management, Technical Development, Color Development, Sourcing, and Manufacturing to finalize materials and trims.
• Lead material testing, risk assessment, tracking, and validation to ensure product excellence.
• Mentor teammates and provide technical guidance across the materials function.
• Translate trends, athlete insights, and emerging technologies into actionable development strategies.
• Champion material innovation initiatives.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior