Medtronic’s Memphis-based R&D team is seeking an entry-level engineer to contribute to bone grafting technologies for spine surgery. The Associate R&D Engineer I will support design, development, testing, and pre-clinical studies under supervision, helping translate concepts into verifiable designs and robust experiments.
LOCATION
COMPENSATION
- Salary: USD 74,400 - 111,600 per year
REQUIREMENTS
- Requires a Baccalaureate degree.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Support design and development activities for bone graft technologies, graft delivery instruments, and spine-related systems
- Execute engineering tasks including design support, testing, data collection, and analysis
- Troubleshoot routine technical issues and propose practical solutions under guidance
- Assist in translating product requirements into design inputs and test methods, including handling and delivery performance of graft materials
- Conduct experiments and support verification and validation activities, including bench, cadaveric, and pre-clinical (animal) studies
- Support execution and documentation of animal studies, including coordination, sample handling, and data collection
- Document engineering work through reports, test protocols, and summaries
- Support maintenance of design history files and quality documentation
- Collaborate primarily within the immediate team and cross-functional partners on task-based activities
- Assist in evaluating existing technologies, including competitive graft materials and delivery approaches
- Ensure compliance with quality systems, procedures, and regulatory expectations
A DAY IN THE LIFE
Within Medtronic's global Neuroscience organization, the team advances care for complex neurological and spinal conditions by combining innovative technology with data-driven insights and clinical expertise. The Cranial & Spinal Technologies (CST) unit delivers an integrated ecosystem of spinal implants, navigation and robotic guidance systems, advanced imaging, and planning tools. Platforms such as AiBLE connect these technologies to improve surgical precision, streamline workflows, and support better patient outcomes worldwide.
Check us out on LinkedIn: Medtronic CST
ROLE OVERVIEW
You will design, develop, analyze, troubleshoot, and support research and product development activities. Work will focus on defined subsystems, components, or tasks within larger programs, including bone graft materials, delivery instruments, and spine systems. You will apply foundational engineering principles and contribute to team-based solutions under close supervision.
NICE TO HAVE
- Exposure to medical devices, biologics, or regulated industry environments
- Experience in laboratory testing, biomaterials, or engineering analysis
- Basic familiarity with spinal anatomy, bone grafting techniques, or pre-clinical models
SKILLS & ABILITIES
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Good interpersonal and teamwork skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
- Basic analytical and problem-solving capabilities
- Ability to work well under pressure and maintain a positive, enthusiastic attitude
- Eagerness to learn and expand technical responsibilities, particularly in bone grafting and spine applications
- Ability to follow processes and work under direction
ADDITIONAL EXPECTATIONS
- Demonstrates alignment with Medtronic core behaviors: Customer Focus, Candor, Trust and Respect, Courage, Accountability, and Passion to Win
- Maintains compliance with quality systems and regulatory requirements
- Contributes to a collaborative and positive team environment
- Depending on the project phase, the employee will engage in bench-top laboratory activities and will use laboratory equipment, chemicals, and tissue specimens
- May require limited travel, including support of off-site labs or pre-clinical (animal) studies
- Work will require periodic engagement with surgeon customers and Medtronic personnel who reside in different time zones, necessitating work outside standard times
ABOUT MEDTRONIC
Medtronic leads global healthcare technology, pursuing solutions to the most challenging health problems and striving to alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life. With a global team of more than 95,000 people, the company emphasizes engineering-minded collaboration across R&D, manufacturing, and operations to turn ideas into practical, life-changing products.
Medtronic is committed to equal employment opportunity for all, and provides reasonable accommodations as needed. Learn more about the company’s mission, diversity, and values.
U.S. WORK AUTHORIZATION & SPONSORSHIP
U.S. work authorization sponsorship is offered exclusively for Principal-level roles and above, where specialized expertise aligns with long-term business needs. Roles below Principal level require candidates to possess unrestricted U.S. work authorization at the time of hire.
PHYSICAL JOB REQUIREMENTS
The physical requirements describe the general nature and level of work performed. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. For office roles, the position commonly requires mobility and the ability to interact with teammates and environment as described.
