Freelance R&D Engineer - MedTech (Surgical Instruments) Germany & Austria | Contract/Freelance | New Product Development About the Role We are supporting a leading MedTech organisation in their search for a freelance R&D Engineer to contribute to multiple new product development (NPD) projects across Germany and Austria. You will play a key role in designing, developing, testing, and validating advanced surgical instruments and minimally invasive devices. This is an ideal opportunity for a highly skilled engineer seeking contract work while contributing to impactful medical innovation. Key Responsibilities Drive R&D activities for surgical instruments and related technologies (concept → prototype → verification & validation → transfer to manufacturing). Collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams including regulatory, quality, and manufacturing. Develop and refine device concepts, CAD designs, material selections, and functional prototypes. Perform design verification, risk analysis (e.g., DFMEA ), and testing under relevant standards (e.g., ISO 13485 ). Support regulatory documentation and design history file creation during NPD. Work on continuous improvement initiatives across mechanical design, usability, performance, and safety. Required Experience MedTech experience is essential -minimum 5 years of professional experience in medical device R&D (This does NOT include Master's thesis work, internerships, student projects, or academic research placements.) Strong background in mechanical engineering, mechatronics, biomedical engineering, or similar. Hands-on experience with surgical instruments, MIS devices, or complex electromechanical medical systems. Solid understanding of ISO 13485, design controls, MDR, and relevant regulatory frameworks. Proficiency in CAD (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo, NX). Proven track record in new product development from early concept to launch. Strong problem-solving mindset, creativity, and the ability to work autonomously. Contract Details Freelance / Contract - 40 hours per week Remote flexibility with on-site work as required across Germany or Austria. Start date: ASAP. Duration: 12 months with potential extension.