Sr R&D Technician

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

Time Type: Full time

Job Description

Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.     

The R&D Technician III is a senior technical expert responsible for leading the fabrication of highly complex, tight‑tolerance prototypes that support advanced medical robotics development. This role provides authoritative DFM/manufacturability guidance, develops machining strategies, optimizes tooling and fixturing, and mentors junior technicians. They work directly with engineering to influence design decisions and ensure prototypes can transition efficiently toward production.

What will you be doing?

• Lead programming, setup, and operation of Haas CNC mills/lathes for complex multi‑operation parts.

• Develop advanced machining strategies, tool paths, and fixture designs in SolidWorks.

• Serve as the primary DFM/manufacturability resource for engineering teams during concept and design phases.

• Oversee fabrication schedules, resource allocation, and shop workflow for prototyping requests.

• Produce high‑precision components requiring tight tolerances, complex geometry, or challenging materials.

• Perform advanced metrology and inspection, ensuring compliance with medical device quality requirements.

• Train and mentor R&D Technicians I and II on machining, measurement, and prototyping best practices.

• Identify and implement process improvements, new equipment opportunities, and machining capability enhancements.

• Partner with engineering leadership to ensure alignment between design intent and manufacturability constraints.

What will you need to be successful? 

• 6+ years of precision machining or prototype fabrication experience, including CNC programming and fixture design.

• Expert‑level proficiency with manual machining, CNC machines, and advanced metrology tools.

• Strong command of SolidWorks for fixture design, modeling, and CAM integration.

• Deep understanding of GD&T, tolerancing strategies, and machining for highly regulated medical device components.

• Demonstrated leadership, mentorship, and cross-functional communication skills.

You Unlimited.  

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 on Inclusion and Belonging, Learn more about Employee Inclusion Groups on our website (https://www.smith-nephew.com/). 

• Your Future: 401k Matching Program, 401k Plus Program, Discounted Stock Options, Tuition Reimbursement    

• Work/Life Balance: Flexible Personal/Vacation Time Off, Paid Holidays, Flex Holidays, Paid Community Service Day   

• Your Wellbeing: Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account (Employer Contribution of $500+ annually), Employee Assistance Program, Parental Leave, Fertility and Adoption Assistance Program   

• Flexibility: Hybrid Work Model (For most professional roles)    

• Training: Hands-On, Team-Customized, Mentorship    

• Extra Perks: Discounts on fitness clubs, travel and more!   

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.