About this role
WHO YOU’LL WORK WITH
The Lead Product Development Engineer, Materials works within the AirMI Materials Engineering organization, driving end to end innovation and manufacturing excellence in our extrusion business. This highly collaborative role partners with production, new product development, operations, and quality teams to solve problems, accelerate innovation, and deliver practical solutions that elevate manufacturing performance globally.
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR
We are looking for an experienced plastics process engineer with deep expertise in sheet extrusion who can lead materials, process and equipment innovation and manufacturing for AirMI. This individual excels at experimental design, root-cause analysis, and developing creative, data-driven solutions that advance both innovation and daily manufacturing performance.
In this role, the ideal candidate elevates team capability through mentorship, cross-functional partnership, and clear communication. They thrive in ambiguity, set clear plans from loosely defined goals, and drive alignment across manufacturing, maintenance, safety, quality, and product development teams.
WHAT YOU BRING:
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Materials Science, or related field. Will accept any suitable combination of education, experience and training.
- 6 years of relevant industry experience in process engineering within a high-volume manufacturing production or development environment.
- Experience with sheet extrusion processing and equipment is required. Experience with multi-layer sheet processing is preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to identify, trouble shoot and resolve sophisticated problems using experimental design and root cause analysis. Experience with LEAN manufacturing principles preferred.
- Ability to mentor and develop talent, fostering a high-performing team culture.
- Capability to function in an ambiguous innovation environment. This role requires the skill to take unclear goals and targets forward by formulating a plan which brings clarity and focus.
- Strong ability for cross team collaboration – cultural awareness required.
- Ability to dream, think, tackle, and grow.
WHAT YOU’LL WORK ON
As the Lead Materials Product Development Engineer on the Beaverton AirMI Extrusion team, you will drive materials innovation, commercialization, and scaled manufacturing for Nike AIR. You will lead technical problem‑solving, optimize production processes, and uncover opportunities to elevate both innovation readiness and factory performance.
As the Lead Materials Product Development Engineer, you will:
- Lead and collaborate with others to solve complex innovation and manufacturing problems, explain difficult issues, and work to build consensus through experimentation.
- Drive root cause analysis of extrusion manufacturing issues related to process, equipment and materials.
- Drive new materials and second source material commercialization.
- Provide technical guidance and mentorship to team members, influence global stakeholders, and elevate the standards and expectations of the department.
- Influence and drive materials development for AIR Innovation Programs to hit critical landmarks and gates.
- Thrive in an environment of ambiguity and support around-the-clock manufacturing, interpret internal/external business challenges, and recommend data-drive decisions to improve processes and equipment.
We offer a number of accommodations to complete our interview process including screen readers, sign language interpreters, accessible and single location for in-person interviews, closed captioning, and other reasonable modifications as needed. If you discover, as you navigate our application process, that you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please complete the Candidate Accommodation Request Form.
Other facts
About Nike
Nike is committed to redefining the future of sport through a comprehensive approach to environmental sustainability. Grounded in a deep sense of responsibility for the planet, our commitment extends across the entire lifecycle of our products. Here's how Nike defines environmental sustainability:
Innovative Materials:
At the heart of our sustainability efforts is a dedication to innovative materials that minimize environmental impact. We constantly explore and invest in sustainable alternatives, incorporating recycled materials, organic cotton, and other eco-friendly innovations into our product lines.
Reducing Waste:
Nike is actively working to reduce waste in our manufacturing processes. Through advanced design techniques and responsible sourcing, we aim to minimize the environmental footprint of our products, ensuring that every step of the production cycle aligns with our commitment to sustainability.
Circular Design:
Embracing a circular economy, Nike is reimagining product design to extend the lifespan of our products. By emphasizing durability, repairability, and recyclability, we are actively working to create a closed-loop system that reduces waste and promotes responsible consumption.
Energy Efficiency:
Nike is dedicated to minimizing our carbon footprint by implementing energy-efficient practices in our manufacturing and supply chain. We're investing in renewable energy sources, setting ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and continuously exploring ways to operate with the environment in mind.
Water Stewardship:
Recognizing the importance of water as a precious resource, Nike is committed to responsible water management. We strive to reduce water usage in our supply chain, implement sustainable water practices, and engage in partnerships that address global water challenges.
Transparency and Accountability:
Nike believes in transparency and being accountable for our environmental impact. We openly communicate our sustainability go
What you'll do
- The Lead Materials Product Development Engineer will drive materials innovation, commercialization, and scaled manufacturing for Nike AIR. They will lead technical problem-solving, optimize production processes, and uncover opportunities to elevate both innovation readiness and factory performance.
Ready to join Nike?
Take the next step in your career journey