Role Overview:This role involves leading the product development lifecycle for orthopedic implants and instruments, from initial concept to design transfer. The engineer will be responsible for authoring and executing test protocols, ensuring regulatory compliance, and managing external testing lab interactions.
Key Responsibilities:- Lead product development for orthopedic implants and instruments from concept through design transfer.
- Author and execute test protocols and reports per ASTM/ISO standards, ensuring risk-based acceptance criteria and regulatory compliance.
- Act as primary liaison with testing labs: prepare technical data packages, approve fixtures, clarify protocol details, and ensure proper sample handling and chain-of-custody.
- Support lab test execution by coordinating logistics, reviewing set-up photos/videos, witnessing critical tests, and resolving deviations promptly.
- Maintain design controls and risk management per ISO 14971 and 21 CFR 820 throughout the project lifecycle.
- Plan and perform design verification and validation (DV&V) including benchtop, simulated use, and preclinical testing.
- Collaborate with manufacturing and suppliers for DFMA, process validations, and design transfer readiness.
Required Skills:- Proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks/Creo), GD&T, tolerance analysis, and fixture design.
- Knowledge of orthopedic testing standards (ASTM F382, F543, F1717, F2077, ISO 14242/14243, etc.).
- Strong capability in test protocol/report writing, statistical analysis (95/95, tolerance intervals), and data integrity practices.
- Familiarity with materials and processes: Ti alloys, CoCr, stainless steel, UHMWPE, PEEK, AM, coatings.
- Understanding of design controls, ISO 13485, ISO 14971, and regulatory pathways (510(k), PMA, MDR).
- Experience with external lab management, including protocol alignment, fixture approval, deviation handling, and report review.
- Competence in risk management tools (DFMEA, pFMEA) and traceability from requirements to verification.
- Skilled in project management and cross-functional communication, using tools like MS Project, Minitab.
- Prior Zimmer Biomet Development experience required.
Qualifications:- Minimum B.S. degree from an ABET-accredited school (or global equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Biomedical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering Technology, Bioengineering Technology, Aerospace Engineering or Aeronautical Engineering.
- 2-4 years of experience.
Preferred Skills:- Medical device, particularly the Orthopedic industry, experience.
