Co-op Research & Development

Smith & Nephew; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 37,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Smith+Nephew is seeking a motivated engineering co-op for the New Product Development team in Austin, TX. You will work with a mix of Mechanical and Electrical engineers to design, prototype, test, and troubleshoot new product concepts for ENT devices. The role emphasizes hands-on learning, documentation, and cross-functional collaboration.

Start Date: January 2027. Program Length: 6 months. Onsite work with a strong emphasis on prototyping, testing, and vendor coordination.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an accredited engineering program.
• Pursuing Mechanical or Biomedical Engineering degree.
• Sophomore year completed or higher, GPA 3.0+ strongly desired.

Responsibilities

• Apply engineering principles to design, build, test, and troubleshoot new product concepts.
• Create/modify 3D CAD designs and drawings for components and vendor quotes.
• Prototype components using rapid prototyping methods and machine shop support.
• Conduct benchtop performance testing and analyze results, write test reports.

Skills

3D CAD software

Prototyping

Lab testing

Technical communication

Time management

Education

Mechanical Engineering student (Sophomore or higher)

GPA 3.0+

Tools

CFD

Job description

*This position does not offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future* Thank you for considering employment with Smith and Nephew. This job opportunity is not currently available for hiring; however, this requisition was established for candidates to express interest in the above position, with a view to progress formally once we are in a position to do so Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nebue we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. The R&D Co-op – New Product Development position will provide an outstanding, hands‑on learning opportunity for a student pursuing a degree in Mechanical or Biomedical Engineering that will help to develop next‑generation technology for new or improved medical devices for the ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) franchise at Smith+Nebue. This position will require a highly‑motivated and self‑driven student to join our engineering team, working with a mix of experienced Mechanical and Electrical engineers to help design, prototype, build, test, and troubleshoot new product concepts, support the documentation, and overall development activities to help bring state‑of‑the‑art technology to support minimally‑invasive ENT surgical procedures. The ideal candidate is a sophomore or higher‑level student pursuing a Mechanical or Biomedical Engineering degree and must be able to work for two semesters consecutively (June to December) in a full‑time capacity. Part‑time coursework may be possible with manager approval, provided it does not interfere with a regular work schedule. The position will be based in Austin, Texas and requires regular onsite presence to support the prototyping and testing activities required for this position.

What will you be doing?

Apply knowledge of engineering principl to help design, build, test, and troubleshoot new product concepts. Develop test methods and equipment, execute test protocols, and generate engineering test reports. Use 3D CAD software to help create/modify design for components and assemblies; also create drawings to support vendor quotes for custom components. Use rapid prototyping equipment and other methods to help prototype components for new product concepts. Work with onsite machine shop to help make components for new devices and/or fixtures to help support prototype assembly. Work closely with the engineering team to take on multiple technical activities, helping to solve unique challenges with engineering problem solving skills. Position may involve CFD (computational fluid modeling), and will utilize advanced test equipment for mechanical testing and other performance/safety testing of devices. Conduct benchtop performance testing to assess overall performance of new or modified devices. Work with internal and external resources to support procurement of materials and other items in support of research and development projects. Position may support onsite testing, as well as occasional work at outside 3rd party contract labs to support product testing.

Start Date: January 2027
Program Length: 6 months
Location: Andover, MA

What will you need to be successful?

• Education: Currently enrolled in an accredited engineering program, pursuing a Mechanical or Biomedical Engineering degree. Must have completed Sophomore year or more. GPA of at least 3.0 or higher strongly desired.
• Experience: Prior work experience (internship, co‑op, part‑time, apprenticeship, or hands‑on research lab experience) is preferred. Understanding of core engineering principles and foundational coursework (through Sophomore year). Some working knowledge of 3D CAD software and basic prototyping and assembly methods. Strong hands‑on experience in other activities (hobbies, work, and/or school research projects) and interest in doing lab‑based engineering work. Experience executing lab testing, writing test protocols and/or reports, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions from the data. Strong written and verbal communication skills with high attention to detail. Demonstrated organizational and time management skills and ability to prioritize multiple activities.

Our Mission & Culture

We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and the patients we serve. Inclusion and Belonging - Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating, and Thriving. Learn more about Employee Inclusion Groups on our website. Other reasons why you will love it here! Training: Hands‑On, Team‑Customized, Mentorship.

Compensation

The anticipated base compensation range for this position is $27- $32 USD hourly

The actual base pay offered to the successful candidate will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to job‑related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, and internal equity. It is not typical for an individual to be hired at the high end of the range for their role at Smith + Nephew. Compensation decisions are dependent upon the facts and circumstances of each position and candidate.

Equal Opportunity

Smith+ Nephew provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.

#LI-ONSITE

Stay connected by joining our Talent Community. We're more than just a company - we're a community! Follow us on LinkedIn to see how we support and empower our employees and patients every day. Check us out on Glassdoor for a glimpse behind the scenes and a sneak peek into You. Unlimited., life, culture, and benefits at S+N. Explore our website and learn more about our mission, our team, and the opportunities we offer. Smith+ Nephew is a global medical technology company. We design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. We support healthcare professionals to return their patients to health and mobility, helping them to perform at their fullest potential. From our first employee and founder, T.J. Smith, to our team today, it’s our people who make Smith+ Nephew a unique place. Yes, we love to innovate and develop exciting technologies, and we offer competitive salaries and progressive benefits. But it’s our culture - of Care, Collaboration and Courage - that really sets us apart. Through a spirit of ownership and can‑do attitude we work together to win. We’re a company of people who care about each other, about our customers and their patients, and about our communities. Together, we fulfill our shared purpose of Life Unlimited.