Lead Materials Innovator, Apparel Innovation

WHO YOU’LL WORK WITH
You’ll join Nike’s Apparel Materials Innovation team—a group obsessed with pushing boundaries in textile science and sustainability. This team partners across NXT Apparel, NXT Digital, NXT Sustainability, Global Apparel Materials, Design, Product Development, and Advanced Manufacturing to deliver groundbreaking material solutions for sport performance apparel.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR
We’re seeking a visionary innovator with deep expertise in textile engineering and material science—someone who thrives at the intersection of performance, sustainability, and advanced manufacturing. This role demands a creative thinker who can translate performance requirements into engineered textile structures, leveraging emerging technologies like machine learning and AI to unlock new possibilities. The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader with a proven track record in research and development, capable of managing complex projects from lab-scale prototypes to commercial production. They should be passionate about sport, sustainability, and the future of apparel innovation.
 

• 7+ years of relevant experience in textile science and engineering, including R&D and commercialization

• Bachelor’s degree in Textile Engineering/Technology, Textile Science, Material Science or related field. Will accept any suitable combination of education, experience and training
• Strong digital skillset, including machine learning approaches and AI fluency
• Experience in intellectual property capture for materials, products, and/or processes

WHAT YOU’LL WORK ON
You’ll lead programs that identify, evaluate, and scale advanced materials for Nike’s future performance apparel. Your work will shape the next generation of textiles—combining science, creativity, and sustainability.
 

Core Responsibilities:

• Drive research and development of innovative textile structures for sport performance applications
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including NXT Apparel, NXT Digital, Sustainability, and Advanced Manufacturing
• Establish methodologies for systematic evaluation of textile needs, from concept to commercialization
• Partner with external suppliers, mills, technology providers, and research institutes to develop engineered textile solutions
• Conduct feasibility assessments, cost analysis, and investment planning for material innovations
• Lead prototype creation and testing, leveraging internal and external labs
• Capture meaningful intellectual property and contribute to Nike’s innovation portfolio