Expert Designer, Creative Pattern Making – Apparel Design Excellence at Nike

Beaverton, Oregon, United States

Apply Now

Not SpecifiedCompensation

Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Apparel, Fashion, SportswearIndustries

Requirements

12+ years of experience in creative pattern making across performance apparel, fashion, or both
Demonstrated ability to translate design intent into form-led patterns
Experience working in cross-functional product creation teams (Design, Development, Innovation, etc.)
Proven ability to problem-solve within tight timelines and shifting priorities
Hands-on experience with both digital and physical prototyping tools
Advanced pattern making (manual and digital; 2D and 3D)
Knowledge of fit, grading, and body dynamics across diverse athlete and consumer types
Familiarity with motion-based and sculptural construction principles
Expertise in tools such as Clo3D, Gerber, or Lectra
Ability to iterate quickly through prototyping and testing
Strong visualization and communication skills

Responsibilities

Lead creative pattern development across innovation platforms and key Fields of Play
Translate early design concepts into 2D/3D patterns that reflect elevated form, fit, and aesthetic intent
Explore and prototype new construction methods, silhouettes, and proportion systems
Support seasonal priorities by delivering refined patterns for athlete-tested and consumer-ready product
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align pattern solutions with performance, style, and manufacturing requirements
Contribute to building a shared language and toolkit for design excellence in pattern work

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Creative Pattern Making2D/3D Pattern DevelopmentFit AnalysisGradingBody DynamicsDigital Pattern MakingPhysical PrototypingApparel ConstructionPerformance Apparel Design

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What experience level is required for this role?

The position requires 12+ years of experience in creative pattern making across performance apparel, fashion, or both.

What key skills are needed for the Expert Designer role?

Candidates need advanced manual and digital pattern making skills (2D and 3D), deep knowledge of fit, grading, and body dynamics, hands-on experience with digital and physical prototyping tools, and expertise in tools such as Clo3D, Gerber, or Lectra.

What is the company culture like at Nike for this role?

Nike's culture rewards curiosity, imagination, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, seeking hands-on experts who thrive on experimentation and bring skills and passion to a challenging, evolving environment.

Who will I work with in this position?

You will report directly to the Director, Craft Design – Apparel Design Excellence and partner closely with Apparel Design Excellence, Materials Design, In-Line Apparel Design, Apparel Innovation, Product Development, and Technical Design teams.

What makes a strong candidate for this Expert Designer position?

A strong candidate has 12+ years of experience, demonstrated ability to translate design intent into form-led patterns, experience in cross-functional teams, proven problem-solving under tight timelines, and strong visualization and communication skills.

Nike

Designs and sells athletic footwear and apparel

About Nike

Nike designs, manufactures, and sells a variety of footwear, apparel, equipment, and accessories aimed at athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and everyday consumers. Their products are created to be stylish and performance-oriented, catering to the needs of a diverse clientele. Nike operates through multiple sales channels, including retail stores, online platforms, and third-party retailers, and enhances its brand image through endorsements from well-known athletes and sports teams. A key aspect of Nike's approach is its membership program, which offers exclusive access to products and content, fostering a deeper connection with consumers. Unlike many competitors, Nike places a strong emphasis on sustainability and corporate responsibility, integrating these values into its operations and product development. The company's goal is to continue growing by creating products that resonate with consumers while promoting positive social and environmental impact.

Beaverton, OregonHeadquarters

1964Year Founded

IPOCompany Stage

Consumer Software, Social Impact, Consumer GoodsIndustries

10,001+Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance

Remote Work Options

Flexible Work Hours

Risks

Emerging sportswear brands increase competition through digital marketing and direct sales.

Rising raw material costs could impact Nike's profit margins.

Consumer backlash over labor practices could harm Nike's brand reputation.

Differentiation

Nike integrates electronics into footwear for active recovery, enhancing product innovation.

The company capitalizes on retro designs, appealing to nostalgic consumers.

Nike's strong brand loyalty is bolstered by high-profile athlete endorsements.

Upsides

Nike's partnership with Oaklands Wolves boosts brand visibility among younger demographics.

Significant investments indicate strong investor confidence in Nike's growth prospects.

Nike's recognition as a socially responsible stock appeals to environmentally conscious investors.

Land your dream remote job 3x faster with AI

Try Jobo Free