WHO YOU WILL WORK WITH

You’ll join a team that designs, develops, and transitions new technologies, materials, and manufacturing processes to create the world’s best athletic footwear. You’ll collaborate closely with global cross-functional teams across Nike, manufacturing partners, and material suppliers. This role reports to a Senior Manager, Chemical Engineering based in Korea.

You’ll partner with Nike leadership and factory teams to implement best practices across our manufacturing network. You’ll apply chemical and process engineering expertise to translate research into scalable, high-quality products and processes.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Nike is always on the offense—relentlessly innovating. We’re looking for a Senior Chemical Engineer to join our team in Korea and help revolutionize the future of athletic footwear. The ideal candidate is a curious problem solver who thrives in dynamic environments and is passionate about driving innovation.

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Polymers, or related field, or 5+ years of directly relevant experience
• Preferred: experience in footwear or related industries (e.g., tires, polyurethane, plastics)
• Fluent in written and spoken English and Korean
• Strategic thinker with the ability to prioritize in technical environments
• Proven success in diverse development or manufacturing teams
• Strong leadership: able to guide projects, make informed decisions, and foster open collaboration
• Skilled problem solver, comfortable with ambiguity and shifting priorities
• Capable of managing multiple complex projects and driving high-impact outcomes
• Customer-focused, collaborative, and able to provide clear direction to partners
• Committed to sustainability and continuous improvement
• Proficient with data tools: JMP, Minitab, Statistica, Excel, and DOE

WHAT YOU WILL WORK ON

In this role, you’ll lead strategic chemical projects aligned with Nike’s manufacturing and engineering initiatives. You’ll serve as a functional expert in chemical and process domains, ensuring progress against strategic goals and adherence to Nike’s manufacturing and quality standards. You’ll leverage data analysis to solve complex engineering challenges and recommend corrective actions during development and production. Other responsibilities includes:

• Serving as a functional expert in bottom component technology during product development, identifying and resolving potential manufacturing issues, and validating cutting-edge technologies for production readiness
• Navigating ambiguity with confidence—define solution paths and elevate factory partner capabilities, including ramping up new chemical facilities while maintaining consistent quality
• Applying chemical and process engineering knowledge to design, develop, and scale new products and processes
• Performing development engineering work across Chemical, Material, Innovation, and Mechanical functions
• Building expertise in bottom-making technology to proactively address manufacturing challenges
• Supporting the growth of manufacturing partner capabilities and guide new facility ramp-ups to ensure consistent quality
• Collaborating with Nike leadership and factory teams to implement best practices across manufacturing locations