R&D Engineer- MedTech
Freelance R&D Engineer - MedTech (Surgical Instruments)
Germany & Austria | Contract/Freelance | New Product Development
About the Role
We are supporting a leading MedTech organisation in their search for a freelance R&D Engineer to contribute to multiple new product development (NPD) projects across Germany and Austria. You will play a key role in designing, developing, testing, and validating advanced surgical instruments and minimally invasive devices.
This is an ideal opportunity for a highly skilled engineer seeking contract work while contributing to impactful medical innovation.
Key Responsibilities
- Drive R&D activities for surgical instruments and related technologies (concept → prototype → verification & validation → transfer to manufacturing).
- Collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams including regulatory, quality, and manufacturing.
- Develop and refine device concepts, CAD designs, material selections, and functional prototypes.
- Perform design verification, risk analysis (e.g., DFMEA), and testing under relevant standards (e.g., ISO 13485).
- Support regulatory documentation and design history file creation during NPD.
- Work on continuous improvement initiatives across mechanical design, usability, performance, and safety.
Required Experience
- MedTech experience is essential-minimum 5+ years of professional experience in medical device R&D (This does NOT include Master's thesis work, internerships, student projects, or academic research placements.)
- Strong background in mechanical engineering, mechatronics, biomedical engineering, or similar.
- Hands-on experience with surgical instruments, MIS devices, or complex electromechanical medical systems.
- Solid understanding of ISO 13485, design controls, MDR, and relevant regulatory frameworks.
- Proficiency in CAD (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo, NX).
- Proven track record in new product development from early concept to launch.
- Strong problem-solving mindset, creativity, and the ability to work autonomously.
Contract Details
- Freelance / Contract - 40 hours per week
- Remote flexibility with on-site work as required across Germany or Austria.
- Start date: ASAP.
- Duration: 12 months+ with potential extension.
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your resume so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customized support on how to optimize your CV to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.