The candidate will have a focus on materials, testing, and manufacturing process optimisation for orthopaedic medical device applications. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in materials engineering, preferably with specific experience or knowledge of Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) and its use in medical devices. Additionally, experience or knowledge of porous coatings is highly desirable.
They will play a key role in the development and improvement of materials used in medical products, ensuring their safety, effectiveness, and regulatory compliance. The candidate will work alongside design, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams to ensure the material performance aligns with design and production requirements. Providing technical guidance and expertise on material-related matters throughout the product development lifecycle, from concept to post-market support.
Essential Functions
1. Work alongside functional teams (Design & Development, Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory) to develop and implement material and process specifications.
2. Conduct research and analysis on material properties, including mechanical, thermal, and chemical characteristics, to ensure the materials meet industry standards and patient safety and product requirements.
3. Strong understanding of material characterisation techniques (e.g. microscopy, spectroscopy, mechanical testing).
4. Develop and execute testing plans for material validation and performance assessment, including fatigue, wear, and biocompatibility testing.
5. Support design efforts by providing materials expertise and recommending solutions to optimise product performance.
6. Collaborate on the evaluation of materials and manufacturing techniques to enhance device performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
7. Troubleshoot material-related issues during the manufacturing process and provide technical guidance to resolve production challenges.
8. Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to optimise material use, manufacturing processes, and product quality.
9. Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements (FDA, ISO, etc.) and industry standards related to material use in medical devices.
Qualifications
1. Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field.
2. Minimum of 5 years of experience working in materials engineering within the medical device industry.
Preferred Experience
1. In-depth knowledge and hands-on experience with Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) and its applications in medical devices, particularly orthopaedic implants and surgical devices.
2. Experience and knowledge of porous coatings used in orthopaedic implant applications.
3. Strong understanding of material characterisation techniques (e.g. microscopy, spectroscopy, mechanical testing).
4. Experiences of executing testing plans for material validation and performance assessment, including fatigue, wear, and biocompatibility testing.
5. Experience managing collaborations, contracts, and partnerships with external industry groups. Demonstrated success managing academic and clinical partners.
6. Knowledge of the manufacturing processes related to medical devices, such as moulding and extrusion.
7. Familiarity with medical device regulatory requirements (FDA, ISO).
8. Demonstrated ability to work independently, in teams, and with external collaboration partners.
9. Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and written and verbal communication skills.
10. Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and lead technical projects.
11. Detail-oriented with a strong focus on safety, quality, and compliance.
Salary: £**** p.a. depending on experience.
Benefits: 20 + days annual leave, plus Bank Holidays, Free on-site parking, Full on-site training given.
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Management and Manufacturing
Industries
Medical Device
#J-18808-Ljbffr