Starkey is a world leader in the manufacturing and distribution of advanced hearing technologies. We are in the business of connecting people and changing lives. Our teams come to work each day focused on ensuring people everywhere have the products and services they need to hear better and live better.

Founded in 1967 by Bill Austin, Starkey is known for our cutting-edge hearing health innovations, industry-leading research and development, and not being afraid to push the edge of what’s possible.

We are headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, have over 5,000 employees in 29 facilities across the globe, and do business in more than 100 markets worldwide.

Watch this video to see more of what sets Starkey apart. 

https://youtu.be/9cUYwTlCepg?si=wkovx8_R_iINfrc6

JOB SUMMARY DESCRIPTION / PRIMARY PURPOSE OF JOB

The primary objective of this position is to lead the development and integration of new innovative hearing technologies and solutions for Starkey’s products and services. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of driving impactful research and development programs, managing multidisciplinary teams, and pioneering advancements in hearing health technology, with extensive knowledge of hearing aid products and the industry.

The Sr. Principal Hearing Scientist will undertake initiatives that clearly impact Starkey’s business and collaborate with multiple groups, including external companies and academia. The Sr. Principal Hearing Scientist will be responsible for providing strategic vision and leadership in ideation, architecture, design of new products and technologies, and project execution to ensure they meet requirements.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES/RESULTS 

• Research and Development Leadership:
  • Lead research and development efforts in developing innovative hearing technologies and develop solutions grounded in scientific, engineering, and clinical principles.
  • Guide and collaborate with algorithm engineers in researching digital signal processing algorithms for hearing aids.
  • Propose and execute research project plans aligned with the company's objectives.
  • Review existing literature, competitive products, and patents to inform research direction.
  • Prototype candidate solutions using simulation and research platforms and evaluate it through lab and field evaluations.
• Technology Development:
  • Manage development projects, from design to completion, ensuring deadlines, budgets, and quality standards are met.
  • Collaborate with Advanced Development and Product Development groups to integrate research results into products.
  • Understand system level requirements impacting hardware, firmware, and software deliverables and Provide inputs to requirements definition.
  • Work with subject matter experts to identify design tradeoffs.
  • Offer technical support for clinical validation efforts.
• Technical Leadership:
  • As a member of the Advanced Development leadership team, actively contribute to the formulation of the Advanced Development roadmap and strategy
  • Demonstrate expertise in hearing science and technology.
  • Serve as a technical consultant and mentor to junior researchers and engineers.
  • Identify and pursue new research and development opportunities aligned with company strategy.
  • Establish and maintain strategic partnerships with research institutions, universities, and other key players in the sector.
  • Identify collaboration opportunities to drive innovation and stay at the forefront of the field.
• General:
  • Participate in relevant professional conferences and seminars.
  • Contribute to competitive analysis and benchmarking efforts.
  • Submit patent disclosures and assist in various patent review and ideation efforts.
  • Encourage innovation and cutting-edge research by identifying new trends, emerging technologies, and collaboration opportunities.
  • Ensure competitive and technological monitoring to keep the company at the forefront of research in its field of activity.
• Other duties/responsibilities as assigned

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Education, Certification and Experience Requirements

Education:

• Ph.D 20 years in Audiology, Hearing Science, Speech and Hearing Biosciences or related field

Experience: 

• Comprehensive experience in hearing health research and innovation, demonstrating a strong track record of developing impactful products.
• Proficiency in formulating, deploying, and managing research and development programs aimed at advancing hearing solutions grounded in scientific, engineering, and clinical principles.
• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, fostering collaboration and achieving project objectives.
• Extensive experience in formulating and deploying research strategies, contributing to product roadmaps, and addressing technical challenges.
• Demonstrated leadership in establishing and maintaining strategic partnerships to drive innovation.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with a focus on mentorship and knowledge sharing.
• Innovative mindset, with a passion for pushing the boundaries of hearing health research and technology

Competencies, Skills & Abilities

• Self-motivated and able to thrive in a fast-paced dynamic environment with minimal guidance.
• Proactive approach to overcoming obstacles and delivering results efficiently.
• Demonstrated leadership in research projects, providing guidance and direction to other technical personnel.
• Ability to lead projects, make critical technical and product decisions, and drive them to successful outcomes.
• Excellent interpersonal skills for effective collaboration within multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong oral and written communication skills to convey complex technical concepts clearly and concisely.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Proficient in performing complex engineering analysis and calculations for problem-solving and troubleshooting.
• High analytical and technical skills to tackle challenging research problems and develop innovative solutions.
• Understanding of the hearing aid industry, market dynamics, and key players in the sector.

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