Senior Chemical Engineer, Innovation at Nike

Busan, South Korea, South Korea

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Senior (5 to 8 years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Footwear, Apparel, ManufacturingIndustries

Requirements

Open to work in Busan, Korea
Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in chemical/material engineering (footwear preferred)
Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related field
Strong foundation in chemical engineering principles, with hands-on experience in rubber, foam, thermoplastics, adhesives, bonding processes, and upper materials
Demonstrated project management skills and ability to lead moderately complex initiatives
Deep technical expertise and collaborative mindset
Ability to translate complex scientific concepts into actionable solutions
Effective communication and networking skills
Professionalism, data-driven decision-making, and proactive problem-solving
Familiarity with sustainability practices and compliance with restricted substances
Ability to apply scientific methodologies and tools to drive innovation in footwear materials and processes

Responsibilities

Drive medium- and long-term chemical and material R&D for innovation programs, ensuring technology advancements are grounded in scientific rigor and aligned with Nike’s performance and sustainability goals
Develop project plans for new chemical technologies and optimize processes with global teammates
Consult on material selection, product construction, and manufacturability of innovative footwear materials
Validate chemical engineering designs to proven standards before transition to production
Collaborate with inline teams and offshore manufacturing to ensure performance integrity
Address durability, performance, manufacturability, sustainability, and IP considerations in all projects
Coordinate research activities with internal teams, vendors, and factory partners
Communicate progress and critical updates to stakeholders, simplifying complex technical concepts for diverse audiences

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Chemical EngineeringMaterial EngineeringRubberFoamThermoplasticsAdhesivesBonding ProcessesUpper MaterialsProject ManagementR&DSustainabilityRestricted Substances Compliance

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

Where is this position located?

The role is based in Busan, Korea, and candidates must be open to working there.

What experience and education are required for this Senior Chemical Engineer role?

A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in chemical/material engineering (footwear preferred) and a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related field are required.

What key skills are needed for this position?

Candidates need a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles with hands-on experience in rubber, foam, thermoplastics, adhesives, bonding processes, and upper materials, plus demonstrated project management skills.

What is the team structure like for this role?

You'll join the Footwear Innovation team in Busan, Korea, reporting to the Director of Chemical Engineering Innovation, and collaborate with a global network of engineers, product developers, and manufacturing partners in a highly matrixed environment.

What makes a strong candidate for this Senior Chemical Engineer position?

A seasoned professional with deep technical expertise, a collaborative mindset, effective communication and networking skills, data-driven decision-making, proactive problem-solving, and familiarity with sustainability practices stands out.

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.

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