R&D Director

BD; Tempe (AZ); On-site; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

BD is seeking an experienced engineering leader to direct R&D functions within the Oncology Platform, guiding new product development and major design changes to sustain growth and market position. This role will oversee programs, coordinate with multiple departments, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

Qualified candidates typically have 15–20 years in R&D within medical devices, strong leadership, and a track record of delivering high-quality, scalable innovations.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical, Biomedical, Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 15-20 years in R&D or process development in medical device or regulated FDA/QSR/ISO environment.
• Experience leading 5-10 engineers/technicians.
• Proven leadership and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Plan and manage R&D programs within the Oncology platform.
• Ensure sound application of engineering principles and high-quality end products.
• Coordinate with Marketing, Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory and R&D.
• Budget planning and resource assessment for programs.
• Travel up to 20% and cross-functional team leadership.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Strategic thinking

Communication

Education

B.S. in Mechanical/Biomedical/Chemical Engineering or related

Master’s or PhD preferred

Job description

We are the people who give possibilities purpose

BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world. Advancing the world of health™ is our Purpose, and it’s no small feat. It takes the imagination and passion of all of us—from design and engineering to the manufacturing and marketing of our billions of MedTech products per year—to look at the impossible and find transformative solutions that turn dreams into possibilities.

Job Description

We are the makers of possible

BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world. Advancing the world of health™ is our Purpose, and it’s no small feat. It takes the imagination and passion of all of us—from design and engineering to the manufacturing and marketing of our billions of MedTech products per year—to look at the impossible and find transformative solutions that turn dreams into possibilities.

We believe that the human element, across our global teams, is what allows us to continually evolve. Join us and discover an environment in which you’ll be supported to learn, grow and become your best self. Become a maker of possible with us.

Job Summary:

Accountable for directing engineering R&D functions within the Oncology Platform as they relate to new products and extensive modifications or design changes in existing product lines to maintain and improve the company's marketing position, growth and profit goals.

This job description is intended as a summary of the primary responsibilities of and qualifications for this position. The job description is not intended as inclusive of all duties an individual in this position might be asked to perform or of all qualifications that may be required either now or in the future.

Job Responsibilities: (Primary Duties, Roles, and/or Authorities)

• Under direction of the V.P. of R&D and working in concert with the cross-functional leaders on the Oncology Leadership Team, determine, plan and manage R&D programs and objectives within the Oncology platform. Consults on long-range technology plans.
• Maintain close direction over assigned projects to ensure sound application of scientific and engineering principles for the highest technological specifications and end product quality
• Confer with and assist staff on day-to-day problems and procedures
• Evaluate designs, specifications, manufacturing feasibility and costs, quality and reliability test data and marketing potential
• Coordinate patent and copyright procedures when required
• Keep well informed and abreast of new developments germane to the Oncology product line and market
• Work effectively with all other functional areas including, but not limited to, Quality, Marketing, Manufacturing, Clinical Affairs and Regulatory Affairs
• Collaborate with the Marketing and Sales departments to assist and determine customers' needs and market future direction
• Manages highly specialized staff teams or highly specialized individual contributor(s) with senior level responsibilities, including up to Director level responsibilities. Responsibility for overall budgeting, performance management, and assessment of resources to ensure that the number, skill sets and experience are adequate to meet the designed business objectives.
• Manage, coach and development direct reports. Manage succession planning activities.
• Directly manage individual programs as required
• Participate in both establishing and managing budget for R&D programs
• Communicate status and progress of programs to management and executive level staff
• Ability to travel up to 20% of the time
• Support Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory & R&D to ensure systems are compliant with all internal and external guidelines.

Education and Experience:

• B.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering or other related engineering discipline. Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or Bioengineering degree preferred.
• Experience: 15-20 years of industrial experience in R&D or process development, preferably in medical device or other regulated FDA/QSR and ISO environment (Masters degree plus 11-14 years or Ph.D. degree with 9-12 years, medical device or equivalent industry experience).
• “Start-up” experience a plus.

Knowledge and Skills:

Required Qualifications:

• B.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering or other related engineering discipline. Biomedical Engineering or Bioengineering degree preferred.
• Experience: 15-20 years of industrial experience in R&D or process development, preferably in medical device or other regulated FDA/QSR and ISO environment (Masters degree plus 11-14 years or Ph.D. degree with 9-12 years, medical device or equivalent industry experience).
• Managed groups of at least 5-10 people, including engineers and technicians.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with other teams within and outside of the company.
• Proven leadership skills in project management and management of new product research and development, with demonstrated commercial success.
• Strong interpersonal skills and sound administrative knowledge.
• Demonstrated ability to work with all levels of the organization from Senior Management to technicians.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Masters or PhD degree in relevant engineering discipline.
• Technical publications, polished technical expertise in an engineering area, technical certification, patent/industry awards, research skills, and National Committee/Association

Physical Demands: (if applicable)

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, sit, use sight, and use hands to manipulate, handle or feel objects, tools, controls, and office equipment. The employee frequently is required to verbally communicate with other associates. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel or crouch.

Work Environment: (if applicable)

While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be in an open cubicle environment. Candidate must be able to work in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment. BD is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer that values and actively seeks diversity in the workforce. On occasion the employee may work in a preclinical setting like an animal lab, cadaver lab or attend clinical case observations.

Why Join Us?

A career at BD means being part of a team that values your opinions and contributions and that encourages you to bring your authentic self to work. It’s also a place where we help each other be great, we do what’s right, we hold each other accountable, and learn and improve every day.

You will learn and work alongside inspirational leaders and colleagues who are equally passionate and committed to fostering an inclusive, growth-centered, and rewarding culture. You will have the opportunity to help shape the trajectory of BD while leaving a legacy at the same time. And through the organization’s investment in BD University, you will continually level up your tech skills and expertise.

To find purpose in the possibilities, we need people who can see the bigger picture, who understand the human story that underpins everything we do. We welcome people with the imagination and drive to help us reinvent the future of health. At BD, you’ll discover a culture in which you can learn, grow and thrive. And find satisfaction in doing your part to make the world a better place.

To learn more about BD visit https://bd.com/careers

Why Join Us?

To find purpose in the possibilities, we need people who can see the bigger picture, who understand the human story that underpins everything we do. We welcome people with the imagination and drive to help us reinvent the future of healthcare. At BD, you’ll discover a culture in which you can learn, grow and thrive.

We believe that when people connect in person, we learn faster, collaborate more deeply, and build a stronger culture. Join us and enjoy a culture where face-to-face collaboration supports your learning, your progress, and your success.

To learn more about BD visit https://bd.com/careers.

Becton, Dickinson, and Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We evaluate applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, disability, military eligibility or veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

Required Skills

Optional Skills

.

Primary Work Location

USA AZ - Tempe Headquarters

Additional Locations

Work Shift