Product Development Engineer I

Applied Medical; Rancho Santa Margarita (CA); On-site; USD 72,000 - 82,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Comprehensive benefits package

Training and mentorship opportunities

Education reimbursement program

401(k) program with employer match

Generous vacation accrual and paid holidays

Job summary

A leading medical technology firm in California seeks a Product Development Engineer I to assist in the design and development of innovative medical devices. The role involves creating CAD models, supporting prototyping, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor’s degree in engineering and over two years of related experience, with exposure to CAD tools like SolidWorks. The position includes benefits such as competitive compensation, training opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Biomedical, or related engineering field.
• More than two years of related engineering experience.
• Exposure to CAD modeling and drafting (e.g., SolidWorks).

Responsibilities

• Support the design and development of medical device components.
• Create and revise CAD models and drawings.
• Assist in the design and development of prototypes.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Problem-solving

Communication skills

CAD modeling

Curiosity and initiative

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Biomedical, or related field

Tools

SolidWorks

Job description

Applied Medical is a new-generation medical device company with a proven business model and commitment to innovation fueled by rapid business growth and expansion. Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 35 years and has earned a strong reputation for excellence in the healthcare field. Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products, enables team members to contribute to a larger capacity than is possible in typical positions.

Position Description

The Product Development Engineer I plays a critical role in supporting the design and development of innovative medical devices and related components. This role focuses on early-stage product development, including concept generation, prototyping, and iterative design improvements.

The Product Development Engineer partners closely with experienced engineers and cross‑functional teams to translate ideas into functional designs. This position provides hands‑on exposure to the full product development lifecycle, from concept through testing, while building a strong foundation in mechanical design and engineering best practices. This role is well‑suited for individuals who demonstrate curiosity, take initiative in learning, and are motivated to explore new ideas and approaches in product development.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the design and development of medical device components, assemblies, and systems from concept through prototype and testing phases.
• Create and revise CAD models, drawings, and assemblies using proper engineering standards and practices.
• Assist in the design and development of prototypes, fixtures, tools, and equipment used for testing and manufacturing.
• Participate in identifying technical challenges, conducting root cause analysis, and proposing design solutions.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, and quality, to ensure designs are practical and manufacturable.
• Support iterative design improvements based on testing results, feedback, and project needs.
• Assist in the preparation of technical documentation, including drawings, test methods, and reports.
• Contribute to design reviews, brainstorming sessions, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Success in This Role Looks Like

• Demonstrates strong mechanical aptitude and growing confidence in design work.
• Produces accurate CAD models and drawings with increasing independence.
• Contributes meaningful ideas during design discussions and problem‑solving efforts.
• Shows initiative in learning new tools, processes, and engineering concepts, demonstrating curiosity and a desire to continuously improve.
• Effectively collaborates with team members and communicates clearly.
• Takes ownership of assigned tasks and follows through to completion.
• Builds a solid foundation in product development and design best practices.

Position Requirements

This Position Requires the Following Skills and Attributes

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Biomedical, or related engineering field.
• More than two years of related engineering experience in a professional work environment.
• Exposure to CAD modeling and drafting (e.g., SolidWorks or similar).
• Strong problem‑solving and critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and interest in product design.
• Ability to work in a hands‑on, collaborative engineering environment.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated curiosity and a proactive approach to learning, including the ability to ask questions, seek feedback, and explore new ideas.
• Willingness to learn, adapt, and take initiative in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with attention to detail.

Preferred

The Following Skills and Attributes are Preferred

• Hands‑on experience with prototyping, fixture design, or mechanical build work.
• Exposure to Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles.
• Familiarity with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Experience working on project‑based or cross‑functional engineering teams.
• Experience in a regulated industry such as medical devices, aerospace, or similar.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation range: $72,000 - $82,000 / year (California).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Training and mentorship opportunities.
• On‑campus wellness activities.
• Education reimbursement program.
• 401(k) program with discretionary employer match.
• Generous vacation accrual and paid holiday schedule.

Please note that the compensation range may be adjusted in the future, and bonus and incentive compensation plans may apply.

Our total reward package reflects our commitment to employee growth and well‑being, as we invest in your development and offer a range of benefits designed to enhance your career and life.

All compensation and benefits are subject to plan documents and written agreements.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Applied Medical is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), or sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws in the locations where Applied Medical operates.