Materials Designer 3

Title: Materials Designer 3

Location: Beaverton, OR

Duration: 13 months contract

NIKE, Inc. does more than outfit the world's best athletes. It is a place to explore potential, obliterate boundaries and push out the edges of what can be. The company looks for people who can grow, think, dream and create. Its culture thrives by embracing diversity and rewarding imagination. The brand seeks achievers, leaders and visionaries. At Nike, it’s about each person bringing skills and passion to a challenging and constantly evolving game.

WHAT YOU WILL WORK ON

The nature of the work is focused on contributing to the development of innovative and visually appealing materials for various projects.

• Blend artistic skills with technical knowledge to design materials that enhance the overall aesthetic and functionality of products, structures, or visual presentations.
• Collaborate with project teams to understand design requirements and functional specifications. Research and select materials based on their properties, durability, and aesthetic qualities.
• Utilize design software and tools to create and refine material concepts.
• Develop prototypes and samples to test and validate the visual and tactile aspects of the materials.
• Work closely with color scientists and texture specialists to ensure accurate color matching and texture replication.
• Consider environmental factors and lighting conditions that may impact material appearance.
• Collaborate with product designers, architects, or engineers to integrate materials seamlessly into the overall design.
• Consider factors such as form, function, and manufacturing processes.
• Stay informed about sustainable and eco-friendly materials.
• Integrate environmentally responsible options into design considerations and recommend alternatives that align with sustainability goals.
• Conduct tests to assess the performance, durability, and safety of materials. Implement quality control measures to maintain consistency in material properties.
• Maintain detailed records of material specifications, design processes, and testing results.
• Create comprehensive documentation for internal reference and regulatory compliance.
• Work closely with material suppliers and manufacturers.
• Evaluate material samples from vendors, negotiate pricing, and ensure that selected materials meet quality and design standards.
• Stay abreast of design trends and emerging materials in relevant industries.
• Provide insights on innovative materials and design approaches that can elevate projects.

WHAT YOU BRING

Must have skills:

• Bachelors Degree
• Minimum of 5 years in Creative Footwear Material Design
• Note: One of the following alternatives may be accepted: PhD or Law + 3 yrs; Masters + 4 yrs; Associates degree + 6 yrs; High School + 7 yrs.
• Experience working on multiple segments of a line
• Interest or knowledge in Skateboarding, sneaker culture, or streetwear

Nice to have skills:

• Basic understanding of Leathers, canvases, uppers, synthetics, wovens, and meshes. Bonus - footwear trims
• Understands the business aspects of material design
• Technical knowledge of materials

Portfolio:

• Examples of recent work, come in with ideas for the SB brand, shows taste level and approach to the project, shows process of design - successes and failures