Development Technologist

At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. We are currently searching for a Development Technologist to perform product and process design, development and testing activities to fulfil the needs of the R&D project and therefore the business. This role is situated within a team of scientists, technologists and engineers who have responsibility for the delivery of key new products. In addition, the role interfaces daily with personnel in other key functions to co‑ordinate the completion of key tasks to deliver the project. The role is pivotal in ensuring that the new product development project runs to time, cost, and quality.

What will you be doing?

• Technical Investigations: To manage and carry out the technical investigations and laboratory testing for given problems/work streams in projects. This will need to be carried out to agreed timescales, budget and quality.
• Laboratory Skills: To develop and validate analytical/physical/mechanical/electrical methods. To co‑ordinate lab and equipment maintenance and calibrations. To identify, source, purchase and qualify new laboratory equipment. To evaluate prototype samples for product stability, product safety and transit. To evaluate competitor products to support the effective commercialization of Smith and Nephew product portfolio. To source and manage external contract analysis providers in the provision of testing. Provide coaching and training to ensure that learning is passed on to other members of the team.
• Prototype and Product Development: To design and execute functionality / robustness tests on development product prototypes using small or pilot scale equipment.
• Design Control: To support the coordination of design control activities and document project strategy and activities via the design control system.
• Process/Outcome Reviews: To assess the outcome and implications of practical work (which may or may not have been carried out by the individual) and make recommendations for further action.
• Reporting and Documentation: To perform and document all activities in compliance with relevant Quality Systems Standards (especially the writing and approval of protocols, recording of data and reporting of work for inclusion in study files) to a high standard of accuracy and in a timely manner.
• Material Sourcing & Evolving Technologies: To keep abreast of developing technologies / standards linked to S+N Wound care product range, and to assist in sourcing and testing new materials or components required for product design or testing activities.

What you will need to be successful?

In order to be successful in the role, the individual must have good laboratory and organisation skills to be able to plan and track against that plan. The individual should have a good level of scientific and/or engineering knowledge, have good practical ability and be able to interpret results effectively. This individual will need to document and report project progress clearly, logically and make sound conclusions, and communicate it clearly in order for it to be understood by internal and external individuals.

BSc/BEng degree (or equivalent/relevant experience). Significant experience in a Scientific / Engineering based discipline (ideally 2 years minimum). Experience of Microsoft Excel, Word and a basic level of MS Project. Desirable: experience with LabView, basic CAD drawing packages and statistical tools (such as Minitab).

You. Unlimited. We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and patients we serve. Inclusion and Belonging Committed to welcoming, celebrating and thriving on inclusion and belonging.

Your Future: Generous annual bonus and pension schemes, Save As You Earn share options.

Work/Life Balance: Flexible vacation and time off, paid holidays and paid volunteering hours, so we can give back to our communities!

Your Wellbeing: Private health and dental plans, healthcare cash plans, income protection, life assurance and much more.

Flexibility: Hybrid working model (for most professional roles).

Training: Hands‑on, team‑customised, mentorship.

Extra Perks: Discounts on gyms and fitness clubs, salary sacrifice bicycle and car schemes and many other employee discounts.