Research And Development Engineer

Barrington James; Amsterdam; On-site; EUR 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Barrington James is seeking an R&D Engineer for Orthopaedic Implants and Biomechanical Systems in Amsterdam to advance joint replacement technologies. You will collaborate with orthopaedic surgeons, design engineers, and clinical specialists to drive product development from concept to production.

The role emphasizes implant biomechanics, CAD modeling, mechanical testing, and regulatory compliance, integrating engineering, materials science, and clinical input to deliver durable orthopedic

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a relevant engineering field.
• Strong knowledge of musculoskeletal anatomy and implant biomechanics.
• Experience with 3D CAD design, mechanical testing, or FEA.
• Familiarity with medical device development and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent technical documentation and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize hip and knee implants and related instruments.
• Assess implant stability, load distribution, and bone interaction.
• Create 3D models and CAD drawings to support development.
• Conduct fatigue, wear, and strength tests for durability.
• Refine implant geometry and materials using test results.
• Collaborate with surgeons to address clinical challenges.
• Support documentation, risk analysis, and ISO/EU MDR compliance.
• Coordinate development with manufacturing and QA teams.

Skills

Musculoskeletal anatomy

Orthopaedic biomechanics

Implant materials

3D CAD

Mechanical testing

FEA

Regulatory knowledge

Technical documentation

English proficiency

Education

Master's degree in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field

Job description

R&D Engineer - Orthopaedic Implants and Biomechanical Systems

Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Position Overview

Contribute to the research and development of advanced orthopaedic technologies designed to restore mobility and improve musculoskeletal health. The role focuses on developing joint replacement implants, bone fixation systems, and surgical solutions in collaboration with orthopaedic surgeons, design engineers, and clinical specialists.

Key Responsibilities

• Product Innovation: Design and optimize hip and knee prostheses, bone fixation systems, and orthopaedic surgical instruments.
• Biomechanical Engineering: Assess implant stability, load distribution, and interaction with surrounding bone and tissue.
• Computer-Aided Design: Create 3D models and technical drawings using CAD software to support product development.
• Mechanical Performance Testing: Conduct fatigue, wear, and strength tests to evaluate implant durability under physiological conditions.
• Design Optimization: Use simulation and test results to refine implant geometry, materials, and performance.
• Clinical Needs Assessment: Collaborate with orthopaedic surgeons to understand surgical challenges and translate them into engineering solutions.
• Quality and Regulatory Affairs: Support design documentation, risk analysis, and compliance with ISO 13485, ISO 14971, and EU MDR.
• Development Coordination: Work with manufacturing, quality assurance, and clinical teams to move products from concept to production.

Technical Specialization: Orthopaedics

• Joint Reconstruction: Development of hip and knee implants to improve joint stability, mobility, and long-term function.
• Bone Trauma Solutions: Engineering of plates, screws, and intramedullary nails for fracture stabilization and bone healing.
• Implant Biomechanics: Evaluation of wear resistance, mechanical fatigue, fixation strength, and material compatibility.

Required Qualifications

• Master's degree in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Understanding of musculoskeletal anatomy, orthopaedic biomechanics, and implant materials.
• Experience with 3D CAD design, mechanical testing, or finite element analysis (FEA).
• Knowledge of medical device development and regulatory requirements.
• Strong technical documentation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Professional fluency in English; Dutch is beneficial.

Professional Environment

The position is based in Amsterdam within a multidisciplinary product development environment, combining engineering research, materials expertise, and clinical input. The engineer contributes to the development of next-generation orthopaedic solutions, with an emphasis on implant performance, surgical precision, and long-term patient outcomes.

Position Objective

To engineer durable, biomechanically optimized orthopaedic devices that support bone healing, restore joint function, and enhance patient mobility and quality of life.