Principal, Manufacturing Engineering

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.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a highly experienced and visionary Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Principal Engineer to lead and drive innovation across our manufacturing operations. This role is critical in shaping the future of our production capabilities through automation, digital transformation, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise, strategic thinking, and strong leadership to influence cross-functional teams and external partners.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the development and deployment of advanced manufacturing technologies, including shopfloor automation, robotics, tooling engineering, and digital manufacturing solutions.

Drive large-scale transformation initiatives, such as digitalization and factory automation, across global manufacturing sites.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles and optimize product manufacturability.

Utilize GSD (General Sewing Data) and capacity planning tools to enhance factory performance and efficiency.

Champion Continuous Improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma) to identify and eliminate waste, improve quality, and increase productivity.

Develop and execute strategic roadmaps aligned with future manufacturing visions and business goals.

Build strong partnerships with internal stakeholders and external vendors to co-develop innovative solutions.

Coach and influence leaders and teams across various levels of the organization, including those outside of direct reporting lines.

Lead hybrid coaching and implementation efforts, both onsite and remotely, to ensure sustainable adoption of new practices.

Mentor and develop engineering talent, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering or a related engineering discipline. Master’s degree or MBA is a strong plus.

8–10 years of relevant experience in Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering, including automation, digital technologies, and garment engineering.

Proven track record in leading digital transformation and factory automation projects.

Strong knowledge of GSD, capacity planning, and shop floor systems.

Hands-on experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement frameworks.

Exceptional strategic thinking, problem-solving, and project management skills.

Excellent communication and influencing abilities, with experience coaching cross-functional teams.

Demonstrated ability to work effectively in matrixed and multicultural environments.

Preferred Certifications:

GSD (General Sewing Data)

Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt)

PMP or equivalent project management certification

Certifications in Smart Manufacturing or Industry 4.0 technologies

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of manufacturing in a dynamic, innovation-driven environment. You will work with passionate professionals, cutting-edge technologies, and global partners to deliver meaningful impact.

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.