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Assoc Director, Device Engineering

United States - California - Foster CityRegular

Job 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.