Senior Footwear Concept and Prototyping Specialist, Global Jordan

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Footwear Concept and Prototyping Specialist, Global Jordan Company: Nike Location: Beaverton, Oregon, United States Job Type: Full-time Category: Product Development / Design Operations Date Posted: 2025-10-30 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Support the operations of the Jordan Concept Lab, a hub for rapid prototyping, 3D printing, and physical exploration in footwear design.
• Accelerate prototyping speed and support footwear innovation by translating digital concepts into tangible objects.
• Act as a key technical resource for 3D printing, equipment maintenance, and sample creation within a creative studio environment.
• Collaborate closely with 3D Designers, Product Creation teams, and Innovation to bring early-stage concepts to life.
• Contribute to the evolution of studio processes, workflows, and the exploration of new materials and technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a "launchpad" for creative contributors, indicating a focus on skill development and long-term growth within Nike's Jordan Brand. The emphasis on "operations of the Jordan Concept Lab" suggests a blend of creative support and practical, hands-on execution. The "Senior" title, combined with the 2-5 year experience level, implies a need for foundational expertise with a strong capacity for growth and independent contribution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• 3D Printer & Tool Operations: Manage the daily operational status of various 3D printers (FDM, SLA, SLS) and other digital fabrication tools, ensuring they are clean, functional, and optimized for continuous use.
• Concept Development Support: Work directly with 3D Designers and Footwear Designers to execute early-stage concept creation, transforming digital designs into physical prototypes.
• File Preparation & Printing: Prepare CAD files for 3D printing, troubleshoot geometry issues, and execute print jobs, ensuring adherence to design specifications and project timelines.
• Post-Processing & Finishing: Lead post-processing of 3D prints, including support removal, sanding, finishing, and assembly, to achieve desired aesthetic and functional qualities.
• Studio Process Optimization: Collaborate with design and innovation teams to document, refine, and evolve Concept Lab processes and workflows, aiming for increased speed, reliability, and efficiency.
• Material & Technology Exploration: Research and experiment with new materials, manufacturing methods, and prototyping tools to expand the capabilities of the Concept Lab and enhance visualization techniques.
• Equipment Maintenance & Vendor Management: Oversee the maintenance of all lab equipment, coordinate with the Building Facilities Manager and external vendors for repairs, servicing, and supply stocking.
• Training & Onboarding: Conduct orientations for designers and partners on studio equipment, processes, safety protocols, and general lab policies.
• Skill Development: Actively learn from and support the 3D design team, growing personal skills in 3D modeling, rendering, and digital storytelling relevant to footwear design.
• Studio Upkeep: Maintain general studio organization, cleanliness, and inventory of consumables and materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on, technical role focused on the practical application of digital fabrication within a creative product development cycle. The emphasis on "operations of the lab" and "process optimization" indicates a need for an individual who can not only execute but also improve the efficiency of the prototyping workflow.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design or a closely related field.
• Equivalent combination of education, experience, and training will be considered.

Experience:

• 2-5 years of experience in a technical role involving 3D printing, digital fabrication, or hands-on prototyping.
• Experience in a creative studio or product development environment is highly desirable.

Required Skills:

• 3D Printing Expertise: Proven experience with various 3D printing technologies (e.g., FDM, SLA, SLS) and their operational nuances.
• CAD Proficiency: Working knowledge of 3D modeling software such as Rhino, Fusion 360, Blender, or SolidWorks.
• Digital Fabrication Tools: Familiarity with other digital fabrication equipment like laser cutters, vacuum formers, and CNC machines.
• Physical Prototyping: Comfort and skill in physical prototyping, model finishing techniques, and the use of workshop tools.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to troubleshoot technical challenges in printing and design.
• Organizational Skills: Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple tasks, equipment, and workflows efficiently.
• Software Proficiency: Proficient in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop for file preparation and visual communication.
• Independent Work Ethic: Ability to work independently with initiative and drive in a fast-paced creative setting.
• Adaptability: Comfort with flexible/non-concrete deadlines and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a dynamic environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Passion for footwear design, brand culture, and product creation.
• Experience with material exploration for prototyping.
• Basic understanding of rendering and digital storytelling techniques.
• Experience in a less corporate, more agile creative environment.
• Professionalism in client/stakeholder interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements blend technical skills in digital fabrication and CAD with essential soft skills like problem-solving, organization, and adaptability. The preference for footwear passion and a "less corporate" environment points to the specific culture of Nike's creative labs.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstration of 3D Printing Projects: Showcase a range of 3D printed objects, highlighting complexity, material diversity, and successful execution from digital file to finished product.
• CAD Modeling Examples: Include examples of 3D models created, demonstrating proficiency in relevant software and ability to translate design intent into printable geometry.
• Physical Prototyping Work: Present examples of physical prototypes, showing model finishing, assembly, and integration of various components.
• Process Documentation Examples: If available, include examples of how you have documented or improved workflows, processes, or equipment operation for a lab or studio.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to document and evolve Concept Lab processes and workflows for speed and reliability.
• Experience in creating clear, actionable guides for equipment operation and safety protocols.
• Understanding of how to integrate digital design files with physical production workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on prototyping and lab operations, a portfolio is crucial. It should visually represent the candidate's hands-on capabilities and understanding of the end-to-end process from digital design to physical object. Emphasis should be placed on clarity, execution, and any process improvements demonstrated.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The estimated salary range for this position in Beaverton, Oregon, for a Mid-Level (2-5 years experience) Specialist is typically between $70,000 and $95,000 annually. This range is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the Portland metropolitan area, considering the technical expertise, creative environment, and the specific demands of supporting a brand like Jordan.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick Leave, Holidays)
• Retirement Savings Plan (e.g., 401k) with Company Match
• Employee Discounts on Nike Products
• Wellness Programs and Resources
• Opportunities for Professional Development and Training
• Potential for Performance-Based Bonuses

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time position, typically 40 hours per week.
• Irregular work hours: The role may require irregular work hours and/or varied work schedules from week to week due to the time required for 3D printing on machines and accommodating last-minute deadlines. Flexibility is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on general market data for similar technical and creative roles in the Beaverton/Portland area. Nike typically offers a competitive benefits package, and the "irregular work hours" note is significant for candidates needing predictable schedules.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Athletic Footwear and Apparel Manufacturing, Retail, and E-commerce. Nike operates within a highly competitive, innovation-driven global market. Company Size: Nike is a large, publicly traded corporation with tens of thousands of employees worldwide. This means access to extensive resources, established processes, and a broad network of professionals. Founded: 1964. Nike has a rich history and a deeply ingrained brand culture focused on athletic achievement, innovation, and inspiring athletes worldwide.

Team Structure:

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role sits within the Global Jordan Brand, a distinct entity within Nike, focusing on footwear. The specialist will collaborate closely with 3D Designers, Footwear Designers, Product Creation teams, and Innovation departments.
• Reporting: Likely reports to a Design Lead, Concept Lab Manager, or a senior member of the Product Creation team.
• Studio Environment: Operates within the Jordan Concept Lab, a specialized internal hub designed for rapid prototyping and exploration. This suggests a more agile, hands-on, and potentially less corporate environment than other parts of Nike.

Methodology:

• Rapid Prototyping: The core methodology revolves around fast iteration using 3D printing and digital fabrication to quickly bring design concepts to a tangible state.
• Data-Driven Exploration: While creative, the process is informed by the capabilities of technology and materials, requiring an analytical approach to problem-solving and process optimization.
• Design Thinking: The lab likely operates on principles of design thinking, emphasizing user needs, rapid experimentation, and iterative development.

Company Website: https://www.nike.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Nike's culture is performance-driven and innovation-focused. The Jordan Brand adds a layer of aspirational design and cultural relevance. The Concept Lab environment implies a focus on speed, experimentation, and hands-on execution, which may differ from more traditional corporate structures.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a "Senior Specialist" with 2-5 years of experience. It's an operational support role within a creative function, bridging the gap between digital design and physical product realization. It's not a direct design role but one that enables designers.

Reporting Structure: The specialist will likely report to a manager or lead within the Product Creation or Design department, working closely with 3D Designers and Footwear Designers. This provides exposure to the core design decision-making processes.

Operations Impact: The primary impact of this role is on the speed and quality of footwear concept development. By ensuring efficient and effective prototyping operations, the specialist directly contributes to accelerating the product creation timeline, enabling designers to iterate faster, and ultimately influencing the innovation pipeline for Jordan Brand footwear.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced 3D printing technologies, materials science, and digital fabrication techniques specific to footwear.
• Design Workflow Integration: Grow understanding of the end-to-end footwear design and development process, becoming a more integral partner to design teams.
• Creative Contribution: Transition into roles with more direct design input or lead prototyping initiatives as expertise grows.
• Leadership Potential: Develop into a lead role within the Concept Lab, managing operations, mentoring junior staff, and driving process improvements.
• Cross-Functional Movement: Opportunities to move into roles within Product Development, Innovation, or even technical design, leveraging the foundational knowledge gained.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is framed as a "launchpad," suggesting clear pathways for growth. The emphasis is on building foundational technical skills and understanding within a creative context, with opportunities to specialize or move into more design-centric or leadership roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is based in Beaverton, Oregon, at Nike's World Headquarters (WHQ). It is an on-site position within a dedicated Concept Lab. Office Location(s): Beaverton, Oregon, USA. Nike's WHQ is a large, campus-like environment.

Workspace Context:

• Lab Environment: The immediate workspace will be the Jordan Concept Lab, which is described as a hub for rapid prototyping. This implies a hands-on, potentially messy, and tool-filled environment where creativity and technical execution are paramount.
• Tools & Technology: Access to advanced 3D printers, modeling software, workshop tools, and potentially other digital fabrication equipment.
• Collaboration Focus: The environment is designed for close collaboration with designers and product creators, fostering a dynamic and interactive atmosphere.
• Physical Demands: The role involves physical tasks such as standing for extended periods, lifting, twisting, and reaching, typical of a workshop or lab setting.

Work Schedule:

• Primarily full-time, though the nature of 3D printing and project deadlines means the schedule can be irregular and may require flexibility outside standard business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is a hands-on, on-site role within a specialized creative lab. Candidates should expect a dynamic, tool-intensive environment that requires physical engagement and adaptability to project-driven timelines.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio by a recruiter or hiring manager to assess qualifications and alignment with role requirements.
• Technical/Skills Assessment: Potential for a practical test or discussion focused on 3D printing, CAD software, or physical prototyping skills. This might involve troubleshooting a print issue or demonstrating proficiency in a specific software.
• Hiring Manager/Team Interviews: Interviews with the hiring manager and key team members (e.g., 3D Designers, Product Creation Leads) to evaluate technical fit, problem-solving abilities, and cultural alignment.
• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to walk through your submitted portfolio, discussing your projects, processes, and demonstrated skills.
• Final Round: May involve a broader panel interview or a final discussion with senior leadership.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Process: Beyond final outputs, detail the challenges, decisions, and iterative steps taken in your projects. Explain why you made certain choices.
• Highlight Technical Skills: Clearly demonstrate your proficiency with the required 3D printing technologies, CAD software, and finishing techniques.
• Quantify Impact (if possible): If you improved a process or sped up prototyping, try to quantify the results.
• Tailor to Footwear: Emphasize any projects or experience relevant to footwear design, materials, or manufacturing.
• Clarity and Organization: Present your portfolio in a clean, well-organized, and easy-to-navigate format (digital is preferred).

Challenge Preparation:

• 3D Printing Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would troubleshoot common 3D printing issues (e.g., failed prints, support structures, material adhesion).
• Design-to-Print Workflow: Understand the steps involved in taking a digital CAD file and preparing it for successful 3D printing.
• Material Properties: Be ready to discuss the properties of different 3D printing materials and their suitability for various prototyping needs.
• Lab Operations: Think about how you would manage multiple print jobs, maintain equipment, and ensure efficient workflow in a busy lab.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is a critical component. Candidates should prepare to deeply discuss their hands-on experience with the specified technologies and processes, demonstrating not just what they can do, but how they approach problem-solving and process improvement.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Printers: FDM, SLA, SLS (specific models may vary, but familiarity with general principles is key).
• CAD Software: Rhino, Fusion 360, Blender, SolidWorks (proficiency in at least one, familiarity with others is a plus).
• Digital Fabrication: Laser cutters, vacuum formers, potentially CNC machines.
• Workshop Tools: Standard hand tools, sanding equipment, finishing supplies.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a data analytics role, the ability to track print job status, material usage, and equipment uptime will be important. Basic data recording or spreadsheet use may be involved.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role, but understanding how design files move through a product creation pipeline might be beneficial.

Other Software:

• Adobe Illustrator & Photoshop: Essential for file preparation, manipulation, and visual communication.
• Project Management Tools: Potentially used for tracking print jobs and project timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong emphasis is placed on hands-on familiarity with 3D printing hardware and CAD software. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite is also a key requirement for digital asset preparation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Experimentation: A culture that encourages trying new things, exploring novel materials and methods, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in prototyping.
• Craftsmanship & Precision: A commitment to high-quality execution in both digital modeling and physical fabrication, ensuring prototypes meet design intent.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Strong emphasis on working effectively with designers and other team members to achieve shared goals.
• Speed & Agility: A focus on rapid iteration and quick turnaround times to support fast-paced product development cycles.
• Curiosity & Continuous Learning: An environment that values individuals eager to learn, adapt, and stay current with emerging technologies.

Collaboration Style:

• Hands-on Partnership: Expect to work very closely with designers, often in real-time, to refine designs and execute prototypes.
• Feedback Loops: Openness to providing and receiving constructive feedback on designs, print quality, and process efficiency.
• Shared Workspace: The lab environment fosters a sense of shared ownership and responsibility for the space and its tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is likely dynamic, creative, and results-oriented, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and continuous improvement within a specialized technical function.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Demands: Juggling various print jobs, equipment maintenance, and design requests simultaneously.
• Technical Troubleshooting: Diagnosing and resolving complex issues with 3D printers, materials, or CAD files under time pressure.
• Managing Expectations: Working with "flexible/non-concrete deadlines" requires strong communication and proactive management of project timelines.
• Staying Current: Rapid evolution of 3D printing technology and materials requires continuous learning and adaptation.
• Physical Demands: The role requires physical stamina and the ability to perform physically demanding tasks regularly.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced 3D Printing Techniques: Gaining expertise in specialized printing methods and post-processing.
• New Material Science: Exploring and understanding the application of novel materials in footwear prototyping.
• 3D Modeling & Design Software: Deepening proficiency in CAD and potentially exploring rendering or animation tools.
• Footwear Design Process: Gaining comprehensive insight into the entire product creation lifecycle within a leading brand.
• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced designers and product creators within the Jordan Brand.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical of a fast-paced, hands-on technical role in a creative industry. The growth opportunities are significant for someone looking to build a career at the intersection of design and advanced manufacturing.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Process Improvement: "Describe a time you identified an inefficiency in a workflow or process and how you addressed it. What was the outcome?" (Prepare an example related to lab operations or prototyping).
• Troubleshooting Scenarios: "Imagine a critical 3D print failed minutes before a deadline. What steps would you take to diagnose and resolve the issue, and how would you communicate with the design team?"
• Material Selection: "If a designer needed a prototype to feel and flex like a specific shoe material, what factors would you consider when selecting a 3D printing material and process?"
• Collaboration: "How do you typically collaborate with designers or engineers to ensure a digital concept translates effectively into a physical prototype?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• Passion for Brand: "What excites you about the Jordan Brand and its role in footwear innovation?"
• Learning Mindset: "How do you stay current with new technologies in 3D printing and digital fabrication?"
• Adaptability: "Describe a situation where you had to adapt to changing priorities or project scope. How did you handle it?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each project, clearly articulate the objective, your role, the process, the challenges faced, and the final outcome.
• Demonstrate Technicality: Be ready to explain the specific software, hardware, and techniques used.
• Showcase Problem-Solving: Highlight instances where you overcame technical hurdles or optimized a process for better results.
• Focus on Relevance: Prioritize projects that showcase your skills in 3D printing, CAD, physical prototyping, and ideally, anything related to footwear or product design.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews will likely assess both technical acumen and the ability to integrate into a creative, fast-paced team. Be prepared to demonstrate practical problem-solving skills and passion for the brand and its product.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Footwear Concept and Prototyping Specialist position:

• Submit your application through the Nike careers portal via the provided link.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight specific experience with 3D printing technologies (FDM, SLA, SLS), CAD software (Rhino, Fusion 360, etc.), and physical prototyping techniques. Use keywords from the job description.
• Curate Your Portfolio: Select your strongest projects that demonstrate your technical skills, process understanding, and problem-solving abilities. Ensure it is well-organized and easy to navigate.
• Prepare Your "Why": Be ready to articulate why you are passionate about footwear, the Jordan Brand, and this specific role, emphasizing your desire to grow within Nike.
• Research Nike & Jordan Brand: Understand their innovation, design philosophy, and recent product launches to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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