What's Happening?
NIKE, Inc. is actively seeking a Product Developer II to join its Kids Footwear Team. This role is integral to the footwear product creation process, focusing on developing innovative and high-quality footwear for young athletes. The successful candidate
will be responsible for transforming 2D designs into 3D samples, ensuring that projects meet design intent, performance expectations, costing, profitability, and sustainability goals. The position requires strong project management, cross-functional collaboration, and problem-solving skills within a product creation environment. The Product Developer II will work closely with various functional partners, including Footwear Engineering, Product Testing, Material Design and Development, Product Design, Product Management, Product Merchandising, Sourcing and Operations, and overseas partners.
Why It's Important?
This role is crucial for NIKE, Inc. as it directly impacts the development and delivery of products for a key demographic: children. Creating footwear that meets the unique needs of children's developmental stages is essential for brand loyalty and market leadership in the youth segment. The Product Developer II ensures that design innovation is balanced with practical considerations such as manufacturability, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability, which are critical for the company's overall business success and brand reputation. By focusing on product and process excellence, this position helps NIKE, Inc. maintain its commitment to quality and performance, while also addressing the growing demand for sustainable products. The collaborative nature of the role also fosters efficient product development cycles and strengthens internal and external partnerships.
What's Next?
The Product Developer II will drive product and process excellence for assigned projects, engaging across all phases of the product creation process. This includes translating 2D design intent into 3D product samples, using technical expertise to elevate product quality and value, and ensuring alignment with timelines, cost targets, and sustainability metrics. The role also involves supporting effective commercialization and manufacturability. The individual will serve as the primary point of contact for overseas partners, ensuring clear and consistent communication. The position requires a bachelor's degree in business or a related field, with a minimum of two years of directly relevant work experience, and an understanding of footwear pattern engineering, tooling, and manufacturing processes.
Beyond the Headlines
The emphasis on developing footwear for 'youngest athletes' and addressing 'unique needs tied to children’s stages of development' highlights a deeper commitment by NIKE, Inc. to specialized product innovation. This approach goes beyond mere scaling down of adult products, indicating a scientific and user-centric design philosophy. By investing in dedicated roles like the Product Developer II for Kids Footwear, the company acknowledges the distinct biomechanical and developmental requirements of children, which can influence long-term health and athletic performance. This specialization not only enhances product quality and safety but also reinforces NIKE, Inc.'s brand as a leader in performance-driven design across all age groups, potentially fostering lifelong brand loyalty from an early age.
