Position Summary:

The Finite Element (FEA) Research Engineer will be responsible for leading computational simulation efforts, including the development, validation, and execution of FEA models for spine (and/or trauma and joint reconstruction) to address unmet clinical needs. This role bridges the gap between engineering and clinical application by working directly with surgeons and internal research teams to simulate biomechanical environments to advance research initiatives and findings within the company. While the primary focus is on finite element analysis (FEA), the individual will also be responsible for operating micro-CT systems, supporting animal studies, and providing analytical support for cross-functional biomechanics engineers. The person needs to have strong self-starting qualities to independently manage coordination of multiple projects to ensure timely and successful completion. Must be enthusiastic, positive, even tempered and have strong skills in areas of dependability, interpersonal relationships, communication, organizational, flexibility and maturity.

Essential Functions:

• Develops advanced computational protocols and finite element models in collaboration with surgeons and researchers; specifically, plans and executes general and patient-specific spinal simulations to identify pros/cons in clinical treatments to optimize surgical outcomes in musculoskeletal fields
• Develops anatomical models from diagnostic data and validates mechanical analysis with experimental data
• Leads project activities involving surgeons and internal personnel, including simulation kick-off meetings, presentation of virtual stress analysis.
• Supports biomechanics engineers by providing analytical data and integrating experimental bench testing results with computational models.
• Ensures publication submission deadlines are met and generates a steady stream of peer-reviewed publications and podium presentations focused on computational biomechanics.
• Creates detailed technical reports on simulation results, validation metrics, and the status of various research projects.
• Perform FEA on engineering proposals and designs to determine feasibility based on mechanical performance, wear stimulation, and fatigue testing
• May additionally support product development with FEA virtual insights into 1). mechanical performance of pipeline products needed for re-design/improvement iterations or 2). engineering rationale needed for worst-case sizing or regulatory body submissions (as needed)
• Works with PD, Sales & Marketing, and surgeons to identify new opportunities for computational research and virtual testing - including other kinematic musculoskeletal models.
• Operates and maintains micro-CT imaging systems, including specimen preparation, high-resolution scanning, and volumetric data analysis
• Assists in the execution of animal studies, focusing on image-based quantitative analysis of tissue response and implant integration
• Assist in the planning, creation, and maintenance of a state-of-the art research laboratory with all necessary equipment
• Create and build a reputation as the best musculoskeletal computational research facility
• Adheres to the letter and spirit of the company Code of Conduct, the AdvaMed Code, MedTech Code, and all other company policies.
• Ensures Compliance with applicable governmental laws, rules, and regulations, both in the United States and internationally, by completing introductory and annual training and maintaining knowledge of compliance as it applies to your role
• Represents the company in a professional manner and uphold the highest standards of ethical business practices and socially responsible conduct in all interactions with other employees, customers, suppliers, and other third parties

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

Qualifications:

• 3-5 years experience in a research environment in biomechanical and musculoskeletal areas preferably with medical devices

• Bachelor's (or preferably Master's/PhD Degree) in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with 2-3 years of FEA and simulation experience in the field of orthopedics
• Demonstrated computer skills to be able to evaluate product designs using available CAE software (ABAQUS/ANSYS/CREO)
• Ability to create models and non-linear material behavior in FEA software
• Familiarity with medical image segmentation software (e.g., Mimics, Simpleware) and/or medical scanning modalities
• Effective communication skills to communicate with employees at all levels of the organization including ability to translate technical data for clinical stakeholders.
• Previous publication experience or scientific writing preferred
• Strong knowledge of Windows, Microsoft Office, and Microsoft Project
• Minimal travel for educational conferences or U.S. standards societies

• Attention to detail
• Self-starter
• Advanced critical thinking and problems-solving skills

Physical Demands:

The physical demands listed here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl
• Required to regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds
• Required to possess specific visons abilities, including: close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and capacity to adjust focus

Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.