Director, Research & Development

Boston Scientific•Santa Clarita, CA

1d•$162,400 - $308,600•Hybrid

About The Position

Boston Scientific ranked #2 among medical device companies on Forbes America's Best Places to Work for Engineers 2026. Whether your passion lies in systems, software, human factors, or beyond, this is a place where you can grow your career and be part of something bigger—advancing science for life. This is an exciting opportunity to join Boston Scientific as Director of Research and Development, Mechanical Engineering and Surgical Access for the Neuromodulation business unit. In our Neuromodulation division, we give life back to every patient and their family by providing leading solutions that silence pain, ease movement disorders, and transform care of neurological conditions. We do this through innovative implantable therapies that modulate the activity of neural structures, including the brain and spinal cord. This leadership role is integral to building a differentiated portfolio that expands patient access to these life-transforming therapies. You will lead a global high-performing team of technical experts—engineers, scientists, and technicians—focused on exploratory, sustaining, and new product development. Success in this role requires strategic thinking, technical expertise, talent development, and collaborative influence across senior leadership and cross-functional peers. Work model, sponsorship, relocation: At Boston Scientific, we value collaboration and synergy. This role follows a hybrid work model requiring employees to be in our local office at least three days per week. Relocation assistance will be offered for this position. Boston Scientific will not offer sponsorship or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this position at this time.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or a related technical discipline
Minimum of 10 years' experience in medical device research and development
Minimum of 10 years' experience leading cross-functional teams and complex project portfolios within matrixed organizations
Proven success managing and developing teams of 15 or more professionals across technical functions
Demonstrated expertise in end-to-end medical device product development, from concept through manufacturing transfer and market launch
Strong strategic mindset and business acumen, with a track record of commercializing products in regulated industries
Deep understanding of surgical access and mechanical design for implantable devices
Ability to travel up to 20% of the time

Nice To Haves

Experience working with Class III implantable devices
Background in spine, pain management, robotic surgery, or neurosurgery
Demonstrated success leading global R&D teams and cross-functional collaboration
Skilled communicator comfortable engaging senior leadership and external stakeholders
Self-starter with the ability to think strategically and drive organizational impact

Responsibilities

Own the R&D strategy for Mechanical and Surgical Access, defining a strategic vision for next-generation systems based on patient and clinician needs, technology advancements, and business opportunities.
Drive global functional excellence in R&D, including sustaining and new product development, while establishing technical best practices.
Oversee the design, development, and integration of complex Class III implantable and non-implantable medical devices. Leverage post-market insights to improve future product designs.
Partner with Marketing to identify and assess new product opportunities and markets aligned to divisional strategy. Develop deep understanding of user expectations and critical product features.
Plan, budget, and execute product development programs in accordance with SOPs, international standards, and regulatory requirements.
Identify and secure intellectual property that is critical to the long-term success of the business.
Lead R&D contributions in the due diligence process for potential acquisitions.
Inspire and develop a high-performing global team (15+ employees), fostering engagement, accountability, and talent retention.
Champion organizational change, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Communicate effectively across all organizational levels, delivering clear updates on scientific progress, development status, and strategic messaging.
Build strong cross-functional relationships across BSC and with external partners, including physicians, KOLs, and industry experts.
Stay ahead of industry trends to anticipate market shifts and inform business strategy.
Collaboratively shape short- and long-term strategy for the Neuromodulation division.