Director, Software Engineering - 3D Design

Become a Part of the NIKE, Inc. Team

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, Inc. it’s about each person bringing skills and passion to a challenging and constantly evolving game.

WHO YOU’LL WORK WITH

You will lead a team of Engineers to build technology solutions that power the 3D design of Nike’s footwear and apparel. You will partner with Product Managers and Designers to understand how technology can enable Nike to accelerate our product design cycle and speed to market.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Nike seeks an experienced and driven 3D Design Engineering Director to lead a high-performing team of engineers on the Consumer Production & Innovation team. The ideal candidate possesses a strong technical background in 3D graphics, a proven track record of team leadership, and a strategic vision for the future of 3D technology in the footwear and apparel industry.  

Technical acumen

• ​Bachelor/Master degree in Computer Science or related field. Will accept any suitable combination of education, experience and training.
• 5+ years of experience in 3D design and pipeline development and tool creation.  
• Proficiency in Python, C++, or other relevant programming languages.  
• Deep understanding of 3D graphics principles, animation, visualization technologies, and real-time rendering.  
• Extensive experience with 3D software packages (Maya, 3ds Max, Houdini, Blender) and game engines (Unreal Engine, Unity).  
• Strong grasp of software architecture, design patterns, and development best practices.  
• Strategic thinker with a vision for the future of 3D technology in the footwear and apparel industry.  
• Experience working in the footwear or apparel industry is a strong plus. 
• Opportunity to lead and shape the future of 3D technology at a global brand. 

People & organizational leadership

• 8+ years experience in managing an engineering team, including experience as a second line manager.

• Track record of being an excellent coach who cultivates a team’s peak performance.

• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills. 

• Superb ability to build relationships with business stakeholders and executives.

WHAT YOU’LL WORK ON

In this role, you will lead the development, implementation, and maintenance of cutting-edge 3D tools that empower our product design process.

Key Responsibilities:

• Team Leadership: Lead a team of talented 3D Design engineers, fostering a collaborative, innovative, and high-performing work environment.  

• Strategic Planning and Execution: Define and implement the strategic roadmap for 3D design, in close partnership with Product Management teammates, and ensure alignment with the Consumer Product and Innovation team’s overall vision.  

• Technical Leadership: Identify opportunities to improve 3D workflow processes, enhancing efficiency, quality, and scalability.  Stay abreast of the latest advancements in 3D graphics, visualization, and related fields. Provide technical leadership on new technologies to integrate into the team’s roadmap.

• Resource Management: Effectively allocate resources, manage budgets, and prioritize projects to maximize team productivity and impact.  

• Performance Management: Set clear performance expectations, provide regular feedback, and conduct performance reviews to support the growth of team members.  

• Stakeholder Relationship Management: Foster strong relationships with partner teams, including Color Designers, Material Designers, Product Designers, and Technical Developers, to ensure seamless integration of 3D technologies into the product creation cycle.  

NIKE, Inc. is a growth company that looks for team members to grow with it. Nike offers a generous total rewards package, casual work environment, a diverse and inclusive culture, and an electric atmosphere for professional development. No matter the location, or the role, every Nike employee shares one galvanizing mission: To bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete* in the world.

NIKE, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability.