Job details
Job ID : 9976871, 45020873
Job Title : R&D Engineer
Location : DFW Airport, TX
Business Line : Direct Hire, Permanent, Benefits from Day 1
Target Salary : $90000-$110,000 base, dependent on experience
Direct Reports : 0
Travel : 0%
Onsite : Yes
Sponsorship : No. Only US Citizens and green card holders at this time.
Position Overview
The R&D Engineer will lead the design, development, and commercialization of innovative orthopedic products, including braces, supports, and soft goods. This role requires strong technical expertise, hands-on prototyping skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects from concept through market launch. The engineer will collaborate cross-functionally and with external partners to ensure products meet clinical needs, quality standards, and business goals.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
New Product Development & Project Leadership
- Drive multiple R&D projects from concept through commercialization.
- Partner with Product Management to define clinical needs, functional requirements, and design inputs.
- Oversee prototype design, rapid prototyping (including 3D printing), bench testing, and clinical / wear trials.
- Develop and document testing protocols (bench, wear, durability).
- Manage timelines, resources, and budgets to ensure on-time launches.
Concept & Design Engineering
Lead design exploration for orthopedic devices and soft goods.Create and refine CAD models (SolidWorks or equivalent), drawings, and assembly documentation.Apply expertise in textile engineering, pattern development, and nesting optimization for material efficiency.Collaborate with vendors on advanced materials, lamination, thermoforming, and fabrication techniques.Specification Development & Manufacturing Transfer
Develop specifications, bills of materials (BOMs), and inspection criteria.Work with Manufacturing to establish production processes, QC testing methods, and cost-optimization strategies.Ensure smooth transfer from prototype to manufacturing, including tooling, fixturing, and nesting optimization.Product Field Testing & Post-Market Improvements
Coordinate field testing with clinicians and patients; capture insights on form, fit, and function.Translate feedback into design refinements and next-generation solutions.Lead Engineering Change Orders (ECOs), corrective actions, and product improvements.Cross-Functional & External Collaboration
Build relationships with clinicians, orthotists, therapists, vendors, and suppliers.Benchmark competitor products and incorporate findings into development.Provide internal product training and technical support to cross-functional teams.Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Technical & Engineering Skills
CAD & Design Tools : SolidWorks (preferred) or equivalent for 2D drawings, 3D models, and assemblies.Patterning & Nesting : Experience with textile pattern development and digital cutting / CNC nesting software.Materials Expertise : Knowledge of textiles, foams, elastomers, laminates, plastics, composites, and hardware used in orthopedic products.Testing & Verification : Familiarity with ASTM / ISO standards, wear simulation, durability testing, and clinical trial coordination.Documentation : Skilled in DHFs, design inputs / outputs, V&V reports, and ECO documentation.Prototyping : Hands-on with rapid prototyping, sewing, thermoforming, injection molding, and 3D printing.Core Competencies
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Excellent communication skills (written and verbal).Ability to balance speed-to-market with safety, compliance, and quality.High attention to detail and quality standards.Proven ability to work cross-functionally and lead teams effectively.Qualifications
Education : Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Biomedical, Materials Science, or Textile Engineering (Master's preferred).Experience :5+ years (Senior Engineer) or 10+ years (Director-level) in product development, preferably in orthopedic bracing, supports, prosthetics / orthotics, or medical soft goods.
Proven record of taking multiple medical device products from concept to market.Experience leading cross-functional teams and managing vendor relationships.9976871