Senior R&D Engineer; Memphis, TN

Life Unlimited. At Smith+Ne per we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. This position is responsible for working in a cross‑functional team of scientists and engineers to deliver on milestones associated with the entire lifecycle of additive‑manufactured (AM), orthopedic products (i.e., early‑phase research, new product development and product support). The individual is expected to apply his or her knowledge and practical skills in the field of materials science and engineering and additive manufacturing to serve as a technical leader within project teams and manage large‑scope projects.

With a minimal level of guidance, the individual will develop and execute testing plans, evaluate testing risk, and ensure adherence to all appropriate standards and documentation requirements. The individual's decisions will be guided by the existing policies, procedures, and business plans.

• Design and conduct AM research studies to support the business throughout the product lifecycle. Work with minimal guidance and within cross‑functional teams to achieve milestones for research programs where key focus is additive manufacturing, materials research, and materials process development. Work in a cross‑functional team and provide direction on materials testing (internal vs external) based on capacity and capability. Liaise with regulatory bodies for testing requirements.
  
  Comply with laboratory management system according to international (e.g., ISO 17025) and S&N standards.
• Write, present and review test reports, retrieval reports, research manuscripts, presentations, white papers, customer communication documents, and invention disclosures related to materials research, process development and AM. Liaise with the national as well as international regulatory bodies as needed. Use expertise to solve unique and complex problems with broad impact on the business using innovative solutions. Propose, initiate, coordinate and review appropriate internal or external studies that will satisfy internal and external testing requirements.
  
  Communicate test plans and results to senior management as needed. Interact with and present to internal or external experts, HCPs, etc.
• Maintain strong knowledge of the AM and Ortho industries, current technical developments, customer needs and business opportunities to match unmet needs with AM solutions. Prepare presentations and technical material needed for sales, marketing and medical education teams as needed.
• Comply with the laboratory management practices set up by the management including S&N global health, safety and environment practices. Create work instructions for safe and effective use of equipment in the laboratory. Manage laboratory equipment maintenance and calibration with internal and external resources. Assist other members of the team to order laboratory consumables, assist in the management of budgets and write capital requests as needed.
• Perform administrative functions as necessary (objective setting, development plans, training, self‑appraisal, etc.). Write technical reports and ensure maintenance of complete and accurate records for all controlled documentation. Other miscellaneous activities include attending meetings, submitting financial/travel requests, coordinating team activities, conducting tours and making presentations.

• In‑depth knowledge of metal additive‑manufacturing methods like laser powder bed fusion, e‑beam powder bed fusion and/or binder jetting.
• In‑depth knowledge of the relationship between materials processing, microstructure and properties.
• Experience characterizing materials via various methods (e.g., mechanical testing, metallography, microscopy, etc.).
• Bachelor of Science, Master of Science or Ph.D. in Mechanical, Materials, or Biomedical Engineering, or another appropriate field.
• Must have good team and communication skills. Requires use of email, Internet and Microsoft Office software.
• 0–4 years hands‑on experience.
• Physical requirements:
  
  the employee is regularly required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach…