Assoc Dir, R&D Engineering

Responsibilities

• Lead Global Injection Engineering: Direct and oversee all engineering activities related to injection product development and sustaining engineering across the full product lifecycle.
• Strategic Project Prioritization: Collaborate with the Commercial Leadership Team (CLT) to align engineering priorities with business objectives, ensuring resources are focused on the most impactful initiatives.
• Project Execution & Delivery: Manage day-to-day project activities, resolve technical and operational roadblocks, and ensure high-performance standards are met across all engineering functions.
• Team Leadership & Mentorship: Lead, mentor, and develop a multidisciplinary team of 20+ engineers. Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks early, develop mitigation strategies, and implement contingency plans to ensure project continuity and compliance.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Marketing, Operations, Regulatory, and Quality teams to support product development, manufacturing scale-up, and post-market activities.
• Innovation & Product Development: Translate high-level business goals into technical requirements. Guide the team through concept development, design, prototyping, testing, and transition to manufacturing.
• Continuous Improvement: Participate in R&D leadership initiatives to enhance processes, tools, and team capabilities. Stay informed on industry trends and emerging technologies.
• Performance Tracking: Define and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure project progress, team productivity, and alignment with strategic goals.
• Technical Expertise: Serve as a subject-matter expert in injection device design and development. Provide guidance on design controls, V&V, DFMA, and regulatory compliance.
• Operational Support: Collaborate with global manufacturing sites to support design changes, process improvements, and quality initiatives.
• Talent Development: Drive talent management strategies including hiring, onboarding, performance development, and succession planning to build a strong leadership pipeline.
• Culture Building: Promote a collaborative, resilient, and high-performing team culture that values technical excellence, innovation, and results.

Experience & Education

• BS or MS in Mechanical, Materials, or Plastics Engineering (or equivalent experience); advanced degree preferred.
• 10+ years of relevant industry experience.
• 5+ years of supervisory experience.
• Proven experience in medical device development and regulatory compliance.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and aligning departmental goals with business objectives.
• Demonstrated success in delivering projects on time and within budget.
• Strong talent assessment and development capabilities.
• Potential successor for the Director of Injection R&D.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong project management and multitasking skills.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and resolve conflicts.
• Knowledge of Lean Six Sigma and DFMA; Black Belt or Kaizen certification a plus.
• Familiarity with FDA QSR 21 CFR 820, ISO 13485, ISO 14971, IEC 60601.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Willingness to travel 25%+.

embecta is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.  We do not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, disability, military eligibility or veteran status, or any other protected status.