Research and Development Engineer

Summary: The Research and Development Engineer supports the development, evaluation, testing, and continuous improvement of products, technologies, and workflows that align with the organization's strategic objectives. This position works closely with Digital Dentistry, Manufacturing, Quality, Sales, Customer Support, and Marketing to assist in bringing innovative ideas from concept through implementation.

The Research & Development Engineer participates in product development activities, process improvement initiatives, prototype development, testing, validation, and documentation while gaining experience in medical and dental device development and manufacturing environments.

This position is intended to develop future engineering talent while supporting innovation efforts across both digital and traditional product platforms.

Title: Research and Development Engineer

Salary Range: $65,000 - $85,000

Position Type: Full Time, Exempt

Schedule: M-F, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: The following statement reflects the general details considered necessary to describe the principle functions of the job identified and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all work requirements that may be inherent to the job.

Research & Product Development

• Assist in the design, development, testing, and evaluation of new products, technologies, and workflow solutions.
• Support prototype development and proof-of-concept activities.
• Participate in product design reviews and engineering discussions.
• Conduct research related to materials, technologies, competitive products, and industry trends.
• Assist in identifying opportunities for product enhancements and innovation.

Testing & Validation

• Perform product testing, data collection, and analysis.
• Assist with verification and validation activities.
• Document test protocols, results, and recommendations.
• Support investigation and resolution of product performance issues.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Manufacturing, Quality, Sales, Marketing, Customer Support, and Digital Dentistry teams.
• Support product launch activities and engineering change initiatives.
• Participate in customer feedback reviews and continuous improvement efforts.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain engineering documentation, technical specifications, testing records, and project files.
• Support compliance with applicable quality and regulatory requirements.
• Assist in preparation of technical reports and presentations.

Qualification Requirements: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience:

Education:

Bachelor's Degree in:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Manufacturing Engineering
• Industrial Engineering
• Engineering Technology
• or related field

Experience:

• 0–3 years of engineering experience
• Internship, co-op, or project experience in medical device, dental device, manufacturing, healthcare technology, or related industries preferred.

Preferred Experience:

• Medical device development
• Dental device development
• Experience working within a regulated or quality-driven manufacturing environment preferred
• Manufacturing environments
• Product testing and validation
• CAD software experience

Other skills and Abilities:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate data and identify practical solutions.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively across R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, Marketing, Sales, and Customer Support functions.
• Demonstrated curiosity and willingness to learn new technologies, materials, and processes.
• Ability to interpret technical information and communicate findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Basic understanding of engineering principles, product development processes, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Ability to work independently while also contributing as part of a cross-functional team.
• Strong documentation and record-keeping skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and business needs.
• Commitment to product quality, safety, and customer satisfaction.

Technical Knowledge:

• Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software preferred:

SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Fusion 360, or equivalent design software.

• Familiarity with engineering drawing interpretation and technical documentation.
• Familiarity with digital workflows, CAD/CAM, additive manufacturing/3D printing, scanning technologies, or digital dentistry technologies preferred. 
• Basic understanding of product development processes, prototype development, product testing and validation, root cause analysis, and design controls.
• Exposure to manufacturing processes and engineering change management preferred.
• Experience with data analysis and reporting tools preferred.
• Familiarity with Quality Management Systems (QMS) and regulated environments preferred.
• Knowledge of medical device, dental device, or healthcare manufacturing standards preferred.
• Understanding of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement principles preferred.

Reasoning Ability: 

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed written and oral instructions.

Ability to deal with problems involving several variables in standardized situations.

Ability to review data, draw conclusions and make suggestions based on data. 

Equipment Used:

Computer, calculator, copier, telephone system, and standard office equipment. Software may include Microsoft Office Suite, CAD software, project management tools, ERP systems, engineering documentation systems, testing equipment software, and data analysis tools.

Travel Requirements: Light travel is required

EEO/Disabilities/Veterans. Individuals with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.