
Assoc Director, Device Engineering
United States - California - Foster CityRegularJob Description
We are seeking a people-focused and technically strong Associate Director of Device Development to lead a team of engineers in the design and development of parenteral drug-device combination products, including autoinjectors, prefilled syringes, and needle safety systems. This role is a first-line people manager position, responsible for developing talent, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team culture, and ensuring successful execution of device development programs. The ideal candidate will bring a balance of technical leadership, strategic thinking, and people management to drive innovation and execution across the portfolio.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead, manage, and develop a team of engineers, providing coaching, performance feedback, and career development support.
- Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement within the device development function.
- Oversee technical execution of combination product development programs, ensuring alignment with design control and regulatory requirements.
- Ensure high-quality documentation, including design inputs/outputs, verification, validation, and risk management deliverables.
- Contribute to regulatory submissions, including INDs, NDAs, and other global filings.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Regulatory, Quality, Clinical, and Manufacturing teams to align on strategy, timelines, and risk mitigation.
- Support technology transfer to clinical and commercial manufacturing sites.
- Drive problem-solving and root cause analysis for product quality investigations and change control activities.
- Represent the team and function in internal and external meetings, including with suppliers and partners.
Basic Qualifications:
- Doctorate and 5+ years of relevant experience OR
- Master’s and 8+ years of relevant experience OR
- Bachelor’s and 10+ years of relevant experience
Preferred Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
- Minimum of 10+ years (BS) or 8+ years (MS) of relevant industry experience in combination product development.
- Prior experience managing or mentoring engineers in a technical environment is required.
- Strong understanding of design control, risk management, and regulatory standards (FDA, EMA, ISO 13485, ISO 14971, cGMP).
- Proven ability to lead teams, manage performance, and build a positive team culture.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; able to influence across functions and levels.
- Demonstrated ability to solve complex problems and make decisions aligned with organizational goals.