Sr. Surface Technology Engineer

Nobel Biocare; Kloten; On-site; CHF 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Nobel Biocare in Switzerland seeks a Senior Surface Technology Engineer to scout future materials and lead the technical development of surface technologies for implants. You will own core surface processes and mentor peers.

The role entails collaborating with Product Management, R&D and external partners, performing feasibility studies, and ensuring Design Control and regulatory compliance in ISO 13485 environments. Fluent English required; German is a plus.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Materials Science, Surface Engineering, Engineering, Chemistry or related field.
• 7+ years in materials science, surface engineering & process development.
• 3+ years in medical device industry, dental or orthopedic preferred.
• Experience with titanium alloys, ceramics, anodization, sandblasting and surface treatments.
• Strong interdisciplinary background in materials and surface engineering.
• Understanding of material-biological interactions and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Act as technical expert for core surface technologies and processes.
• Lead development of new materials, surfaces and product innovations.
• Scout and develop emerging material and surface opportunities.
• Drive process improvements via data analysis and cross-functional collaboration.
• Conduct feasibility studies and support technology transfer to manufacturing.
• Monitor literature, industry trends and competitive technologies.
• Collaborate with PM, IP, R&D, suppliers and key opinion leaders.
• Provide technical guidance and coaching across the organization.
• Support strategic initiatives while ensuring ISO 13485 and regulatory compliance.

Skills

Materials Science

Surface Engineering

Data Analytics

Statistics

Technical Writing

Cross-functional

English Fluency

Team Leadership

Education

Advanced degree in Materials Science

Tools

SAP

GRANTA Materials Database

Data Analytics Software

Statistical Software

Job description

Join Nobel Biocare and help drive the next generation of implant materials and surface technologies!

We are seeking an experienced Senior Surface Technology Engineer whose main responsibility will be to scout and identify future materials and surface technology opportunities, as well as to lead the technical development of products, materials, and surfaces according to the company's processes.

The Senior Surface Technology Engineer will own core surface processes, ensure their maintenance, and support further improvements, providing scientific/technical expertise, knowledge sharing and coaching of peers.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the technical expert for core surface technologies and manufacturing processes.
• Lead the development of new materials, surfaces, and product innovations in line with Design Control and Idea-to-Market processes.
• Scout, evaluate, and develop emerging material and surface technology opportunities.
• Drive process improvements through scientific expertise, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Conduct feasibility studies and support the transfer of new technologies into manufacturing.
• Monitor scientific literature, industry trends, and competitive technologies.
• Collaborate with Product Management, Intellectual Property, R&D, suppliers, and key opinion leaders to deliver innovative solutions.
• Provide technical guidance, coaching, and knowledge sharing across the organization.
• Support strategic initiatives while ensuring compliance with medical device quality and regulatory requirements.

What We're Looking For

• Advanced degree in Materials Science, Surface Engineering, Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in materials science, surface engineering, and manufacturing process development.
• 3+ years of experience in the medical device industry, preferably within dental or orthopedic sectors.
• Strong expertise in materials and surface technologies, including titanium alloys, ceramics, anodization, sandblasting, and related surface treatment processes.
• Strong interdisciplinary background in Materials Science, Engineering, and surface engineering, with demonstrated understanding of material-biological interface interactions.
• In-depth understanding of relevant chemistry, bone and/or mucosal biology, with the ability to interpret biological responses to implant materials and surfaces and translate them into design and development decisions.
• Deep understanding of material-biological interactions, chemistry, and bone and/or soft tissue biology.
• Solid knowledge of medical device regulations and development processes, including ISO 13485, ISO 14971, Design Control, and technical documentation requirements.
• Experience developing and improving manufacturing processes within regulated environments.
• Good understanding of the dental industry, clinical workflows, and laboratory processes.
• Proficiency with tools such as SAP, GRANTA Materials Database, data analytics, and statistical software.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical writing skills.
• Experience working cross-functionally in multicultural and matrix organizations.
• Proactive, independent, and results-oriented approach with a strong sense of ownership.
• Fluent English communication skills; German is an advantage.

Why Join Us?

At Nobel Biocare, you will be part of a global innovation team developing technologies that improve patient outcomes worldwide. This is an exciting opportunity to work on cutting-edge materials and surface technologies, collaborate with leading experts, and contribute directly to the future of implant dentistry.

Operating company:Nobel Biocare