Principal R&D Engineer

The Senior Principal R&D Engineer plays a critical role in setting the engineering direction for new product development at Tactile Medical. This position leads and influences cross-functional engineering teams to explore and implement innovative technologies, applications, and processes. The goal is to accelerate the development of high quality, scalable, and cost effective wearable medical devices while ensuring compliance with quality management systems, reducing time to market, and improving patient outcomes.

• Identify and evaluate emerging technologies to expand Tactile Medical's wearable device offerings in collaboration with Marketing
• Lead engineering development efforts focused on fabric-integrated circuits, deformable PCBs, and embedded sensing and therapy devices to improve patient comfort and outcomes
• Mentor engineering teams in implementing best-in-class manufacturing processes, leveraging Design for Manufacturing principles to translate design inputs into robust product and process specifications
• Ensure Voice of Customer (VOC) insights are integrated throughout the product development lifecycle in partnership with Marketing
• Collaborate with Sourcing to assess, develop, and enhance supplier capabilities for new and existing technologies
• Partner with Project Management to optimize technical deliverables and reduce overall project timelines
• Coordinate cross-functionally with Supply Chain, Quality, Production, Sales, and Finance to support successful product design and introduction
• Lead Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA) and participate in hazard reviews to proactively identify and mitigate technical risks
• Develop and maintain accurate and timely engineering documentation including drawings, specifications, and bills of materials
• Ensure product designs comply with applicable regulatory and IEC standards
• Prepare and deliver technical presentations and updates to senior leadership
• Perform additional duties as required to support product development initiatives

Education & Experience

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical field
• 10+ years of experience in engineering, operations, and design control, preferably within the medical device industry
• Demonstrated success in developing and launching products using a structured stage/phase gate process
• Experience managing intellectual property, technical documentation, and design history files
• Proven track record of leading engineering and project initiatives in high-performance, fast-paced environments

Preferred:

• Master's degree in Engineering, Product Development, or a related field
• Experience with 510(k) submissions or other regulatory pathways
• Familiarity with wearable medical technologies or consumer health products
• Certifications such as PMP, Six Sigma, or equivalent

Knowledge & Skills

• Influence without authority, develop strong relationships cross-functionally and collaborate through conflict to accomplish project goals under tight deadlines.
• Demonstrated problem solving skills and analytical abilities.
• Excellent organization and prioritization skills - easily adapts to changing business needs and adept at juggling numerous projects and deadlines.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel in addition to project management and CAD software
• Results-oriented and naturally focuses efforts on innovative and cost-effective solutions.
• Excellent written/verbal communication and presentation skills to clearly articulate concepts and strategy
• Operate as a strong team player with a high degree of flexibility.
• Communicate complex project updates, challenges and successes clearly and concisely.
• Facilitate meetings of varying sizes, balancing the needs, voices and concerns of all participants.