Principal Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Principal Designer Company: Boston Scientific Location: Arden Hills, Minnesota, US Job Type: Full-Time Category: Engineering / Design Operations Date Posted: 2026-01-28T20:56:20 Experience Level: 10+ Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in driving the design and development of critical equipment, fixtures, and tooling, directly impacting product realization and manufacturing efficiency within a highly regulated industry.
• The Principal Designer will be responsible for translating complex technical requirements into tangible, production-ready designs, leveraging advanced CAD skills and a deep understanding of mechanical principles.
• Success in this position requires exceptional problem-solving acumen and the ability to lead technical initiatives, ensuring seamless project progression from conceptualization through to final implementation.
• This role emphasizes cross-functional collaboration, requiring strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively partner with engineering, manufacturing, and other stakeholders to achieve project milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Principal Designer" title, combined with the requirement for 8+ years of experience and the emphasis on leading technical initiatives and developing innovative solutions, strongly suggests a senior-level role focused on complex design challenges and potentially mentoring junior team members. The company's industry (medical devices) implies a focus on precision, compliance, and rigorous validation processes within design operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and engineer complex mechanical designs for equipment, fixtures, and tooling from initial concept through to successful production implementation.
• Utilize SolidWorks software proficiently to create detailed 3D models, 2D drawings, and assemblies, ensuring adherence to design specifications and manufacturing constraints.
• Apply a strong understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) to define critical dimensions and tolerances, ensuring design intent is clearly communicated and achievable.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including R&D, manufacturing, quality, and project management, to gather requirements, resolve technical challenges, and ensure alignment on design solutions.
• Lead technical discussions and problem-solving sessions to address design-related issues, drive innovation, and optimize designs for manufacturability, cost-effectiveness, and reliability.
• Independently manage project deliverables, proactively identify potential roadblocks, and drive solutions to completion through effective teamwork and communication.
• Contribute to New Product Development (NPD) efforts by providing expert design input, developing innovative solutions, and ensuring designs meet performance, regulatory, and market requirements.
• Document design processes, specifications, and test results meticulously, adhering to company and industry standards, particularly within the medical device sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities indicate a hands-on design role with significant leadership and problem-solving components. The emphasis on "equipment/fixtures/tooling" suggests a focus on manufacturing process improvement and product realization infrastructure rather than product design itself, though NPD is also mentioned. The requirement to "schedule out timelines with specific milestones" points to project management and execution responsibilities within the design process.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Associate's or 2-year technical degree (or higher) in Mechanical Drafting, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or a closely related technical field.

Experience:

• A minimum of 8 years of progressive professional experience in mechanical design.
• Demonstrated success in developing equipment, fixtures, and tooling from concept through to production.
• Proven experience as a technical lead on team projects, guiding technical direction and deliverables.
• Prior experience in the medical device industry or similar highly-regulated industries (e.g., aerospace, automotive) is highly preferred.
• Experience with molding processes and design considerations is a significant advantage.

Required Skills:

• Mechanical Design Expertise: Comprehensive knowledge of mechanical design principles, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• SolidWorks Proficiency: Advanced skills in SolidWorks for 3D modeling, 2D detailing, assembly creation, and potentially simulation or analysis.
• GD&T Mastery: Strong understanding and application of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing standards.
• Problem-Solving: Exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills to diagnose and resolve complex technical challenges.
• Conflict Resolution: Ability to navigate and resolve disagreements constructively within a team environment.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication abilities for technical documentation, presentations, and cross-functional discussions.
• Teamwork: Proven ability to collaborate effectively within technically demanding, cross-functional teams.
• Mechanical Aptitude: Strong hands-on understanding of mechanical systems and their operation.

Preferred Skills:

• Molding Experience: Specific knowledge of injection molding, blow molding, or other relevant molding processes.
• Medical Device Design: Familiarity with design controls, regulatory requirements (FDA, ISO), and validation processes common in the medical device sector.
• New Product Development (NPD): Experience participating in or leading design aspects of NPD cycles.
• Innovative Solution Development: Demonstrated ability to conceptualize and implement novel approaches to design challenges.
• Technical Leadership: Experience guiding and mentoring junior designers or engineers.
• Project Scheduling: Ability to define, plan, and track timelines with specific milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+ Years" AI experience level aligns with the "Principal" title and the 8+ years requirement, suggesting that candidates exceeding the minimum will be strongly considered. The AI key skills list accurately reflects the core technical and soft skills needed for this role. The emphasis on "medical device industry" in both the description and preferred skills highlights the importance of regulatory awareness.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Case Studies: Showcase 2-3 complex mechanical design projects (equipment, fixtures, or tooling) that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and design process.
• SolidWorks Demonstrations: Include examples of detailed 3D models, complex assemblies, and clear 2D manufacturing drawings, ideally highlighting GD&T application.
• Process Optimization Examples: Present instances where your designs improved manufacturing efficiency, reduced costs, or enhanced product quality. Quantify these improvements whenever possible.
• Innovation Showcase: Highlight any projects where you developed novel solutions or significantly innovative approaches to design challenges.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration Evidence: Describe your role in collaborative projects and how you effectively communicated and integrated feedback from other departments.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate understanding of design documentation best practices, including the creation of Bill of Materials (BOMs), technical specifications, and design history files (DHFs), particularly relevant for regulated industries.
• Showcase experience with design review processes, including preparation for and participation in technical reviews, peer reviews, and design for manufacturability (DFM) assessments.
• Provide examples of how you have contributed to or followed established workflows for equipment, fixture, or tooling development, from concept generation to validation.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Principal Designer role, a portfolio should emphasize not just technical execution but also strategic thinking, problem-solving leadership, and impact on broader business objectives like efficiency and quality. Highlighting experience within regulated industries is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the "Principal Designer" title, 10+ years of experience, specific technical skills (SolidWorks, GD&T), and the location in Arden Hills, MN, a competitive salary range is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for Principal Engineers/Designers in the medical device sector in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, the estimated annual salary range is $110,000 - $155,000. This range can vary based on specific experience, qualifications, and negotiation.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) with company match.
• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and continuing education.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP): Potential to purchase company stock at a discount.
• Wellness Programs: Initiatives to support employee health and well-being.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work week, typically 40 hours. However, given the "Principal" level and project-driven nature, flexibility may be required to meet critical deadlines, with potential for occasional overtime.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimate is based on market data for Principal Designer/Engineer roles in the medical device industry in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, factoring in the specified experience level. Boston Scientific is a large, established company, so a comprehensive benefits package is expected.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Medical Devices / Healthcare Technology. Boston Scientific is a global leader in developing and manufacturing innovative medical solutions that improve the lives of patients worldwide. This industry demands high standards for quality, safety, compliance, and innovation. Company Size: Large (10,000+ employees). As a major player in the medical device industry, Boston Scientific operates on a global scale, offering stability, extensive resources, and significant career development opportunities. Founded: 1979. With decades of experience, Boston Scientific has a strong heritage of innovation and a well-established presence in the healthcare market.

Team Structure:

• The Principal Designer likely operates within a product development engineering team, a manufacturing engineering group, or a dedicated tooling/equipment design department.
• Reporting structure will likely be to an Engineering Manager or Director, with close collaboration with project managers, R&D engineers, manufacturing engineers, and potentially quality assurance personnel.
• Cross-functional collaboration is a hallmark of medical device development, requiring designers to work closely with teams responsible for research, clinical affairs, regulatory submissions, and commercialization.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Decisions are informed by performance data, user feedback, regulatory requirements, and manufacturing capabilities.
• Process Optimization: Continuous improvement is a key focus, with an emphasis on designing for manufacturability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Agile/Stage-Gate Development: Projects likely follow structured development methodologies, such as stage-gate processes, ensuring rigorous review and validation at key milestones.
• Quality Management Systems (QMS): Adherence to rigorous QMS, such as ISO 13485 and FDA regulations (21 CFR Part 820), is paramount in all design activities.

Company Website: bostonscientific.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's industry and size are critical context for operations roles. Medical device design necessitates a strong emphasis on quality, compliance, and rigorous process adherence, which will shape the expectations for this Principal Designer role.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Principal Designer. This is a senior-level individual contributor role, indicating significant technical expertise, proven experience, and the ability to operate with a high degree of autonomy. It signifies a deep specialization in mechanical design, with potential for technical leadership and mentorship. Reporting Structure: Typically reports to an Engineering Manager or Director of Engineering. This position will likely collaborate extensively with peers and stakeholders across R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, and Project Management functions. Operations Impact: The Principal Designer's work directly influences the efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness of manufacturing processes and new product introductions. Their designs for equipment, fixtures, and tooling are critical enablers for producing medical devices that meet stringent performance and regulatory standards, ultimately impacting patient care.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific design areas, advanced materials, or complex mechanical systems relevant to Boston Scientific's product portfolio.
• Technical Leadership: Transition into roles such as Technical Lead, Engineering Fellow, or Principal Engineer, guiding larger, more complex design projects and mentoring teams.
• Management Track: With demonstrated leadership and project management capabilities, there may be opportunities to move into engineering management roles, overseeing teams and strategic initiatives.
• Cross-Functional Expertise: Gain broader experience by working on diverse projects across different product lines or business units within Boston Scientific.
• Continuous Learning: Access to internal and external training, conferences, and certifications to stay abreast of emerging technologies and best practices in mechanical design and manufacturing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Principal" designation implies a strong technical path, focusing on deep expertise and influence rather than necessarily people management, though that can be a future option. The growth within a large medical device company like Boston Scientific is often structured and supported.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a need for physical presence at the Arden Hills facility. The environment will likely be a mix of office space for design work and collaboration, and potentially lab or workshop areas for prototyping, testing, or interacting with manufacturing equipment. Office Location(s): Arden Hills, Minnesota, USA. This location is a significant hub for Boston Scientific's operations. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Design Studios: Expect shared workspaces or dedicated design areas equipped with the necessary CAD workstations and collaboration tools.
• Advanced Tooling & Technology: Access to state-of-the-art SolidWorks software, potentially simulation tools, and potentially prototyping equipment or access to machine shops for fixture and tooling development.
• Cross-Functional Interaction: Opportunities to regularly engage with engineers, technicians, project managers, and manufacturing personnel, fostering a dynamic and interactive work atmosphere.
• Focus on Detail and Precision: The work environment will likely emphasize accuracy, meticulousness, and adherence to strict quality and safety protocols inherent to the medical device industry.

Work Schedule:

• The standard 40-hour work week is the baseline. However, the "Principal" level and the nature of product development and manufacturing support may necessitate flexibility to meet project deadlines, attend critical meetings, or address urgent production issues. This could involve occasional extended hours or weekend work during peak periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: An on-site role in a large medical device company implies a structured, professional environment with a strong emphasis on collaboration, adherence to protocols, and access to specialized resources.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.
• Hiring Manager Interview: Detailed discussion about your experience, technical skills (SolidWorks, GD&T), problem-solving approach, and understanding of the role's responsibilities. Expect behavioral questions related to teamwork, conflict resolution, and leadership.
• Technical Assessment/Portfolio Review: This is a critical stage. You will likely be asked to present your portfolio, discussing specific design projects, your process, challenges faced, and solutions implemented. Be prepared to answer in-depth technical questions about your designs.
• Cross-Functional Team Interview: Meet with potential colleagues from R&D, manufacturing, or quality to assess collaboration style and technical synergy.
• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership or department heads to discuss strategic alignment and overall fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your skills in mechanical design, SolidWorks, GD&T, and problem-solving, particularly those related to equipment, fixtures, or tooling. Prioritize projects with quantifiable results (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, quality improvements).
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the design solutions you developed, the challenges encountered, how you overcame them, and the final outcome/impact.
• Highlight Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the intricacies of your designs, including material selection, stress analysis (if applicable), manufacturing considerations, and GD&T implementation.
• Demonstrate Process: Explain your design process, from requirements gathering to concept development, detailed design, and DFM considerations.
• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the value of your work. For example, "Reduced assembly time by 15%" or "Improved fixture accuracy by 0.001 inches."
• Tailor to Boston Scientific: If possible, subtly align your project selection and discussion points with Boston Scientific's focus on medical devices, innovation, and quality.

Challenge Preparation:

• Expect potential technical challenges or case studies that require you to apply your design thinking to a hypothetical problem. This might involve sketching concepts, outlining a design process, or identifying critical design considerations for a specific type of fixture or equipment.
• Be ready to discuss how you would approach a design problem from scratch, considering constraints, potential risks, and collaboration needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is paramount for a design role, especially at the Principal level. Candidates should prepare thoroughly to showcase not only technical proficiency but also strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities relevant to the medical device industry.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• SolidWorks: This is a core requirement. Proficiency in 3D modeling, part and assembly design, 2D drafting, surface modeling, and potentially simulation (FEA) is expected.
• CAD/CAM Software: Familiarity with other CAD systems and potentially CAM software for manufacturing integration.
• PLM/PDM Systems: Experience with Product Lifecycle Management or Product Data Management systems for managing design data and revisions (e.g., Windchill, Teamcenter).
• Microsoft Office Suite: Standard applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint for documentation, data analysis, and presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary analytics role, understanding how to interpret performance data from prototypes or existing equipment is beneficial. Basic data analysis in Excel or specialized tools may be used.

CRM & Automation:

• Likely not directly involved with CRM. Automation relevant to design processes (e.g., automated drawing generation, configuration tools) may be a plus.

Integration Tools:

• Understanding how CAD data integrates with manufacturing execution systems (MES) or enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems can be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: SolidWorks is explicitly mentioned and is critical. Experience with PDM/PLM systems is highly relevant for managing design data in a regulated environment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Patient Focus: A fundamental value in the medical device industry, ensuring all design decisions ultimately prioritize patient safety and well-being.
• Innovation: Driving new and improved solutions through creative design thinking and embracing new technologies.
• Quality Excellence: Unwavering commitment to high standards in design, development, and manufacturing processes.
• Integrity: Conducting business ethically and transparently, adhering to all regulatory and company policies.
• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where diverse perspectives are valued and contribute to collective success.
• Efficiency & Continuous Improvement: Striving for optimized processes, cost-effectiveness, and lean manufacturing principles.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Partnership: Expect a highly collaborative environment where designers work closely with engineers from various disciplines, manufacturing personnel, quality assurance, and project management.
• Data-Informed Discussions: Technical decisions and problem-solving are often supported by data, test results, and rigorous analysis.
• Structured Reviews: Design reviews are a standard practice, involving detailed feedback and constructive critique from peers and stakeholders.
• Proactive Communication: Open and clear communication is essential to navigate the complexities of product development and regulatory compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Boston Scientific's values, applied to a Principal Designer role, emphasize a blend of technical rigor, ethical conduct, and a patient-centric approach within a collaborative engineering framework.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Regulatory Hurdles: Designing within the strict framework of FDA regulations and ISO standards requires meticulous attention to detail and thorough documentation.
• Balancing Innovation with Constraints: Developing novel solutions while adhering to cost, manufacturability, and regulatory limitations.
• Complex Problem-Solving: Tackling intricate mechanical design issues that may involve multiple interacting systems or require creative engineering approaches.
• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring all stakeholders are aligned on design intent, specifications, and project timelines, managing differing priorities.
• Rapid Technological Advancements: Keeping pace with evolving design tools, materials, and manufacturing technologies within the medical device sector.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced CAD/Simulation Training: Access to specialized courses to enhance SolidWorks skills or learn new simulation and analysis techniques.
• Medical Device Design Standards: Training on specific regulatory requirements, design controls, and validation methodologies.
• Project Management Fundamentals: Opportunities to develop skills in project planning, scheduling, and execution for design initiatives.
• Technical Leadership Workshops: Development programs focused on mentoring, technical guidance, and leading engineering teams.
• Industry Conferences & Networking: Participation in relevant industry events to stay current with best practices and emerging trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in the medical device industry provide fertile ground for learning and development, pushing designers to grow technically and strategically.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to design a complex piece of equipment or tooling from concept to production. What were the key challenges, and how did you address them?" (Focus on your process, problem-solving, and outcomes.)
• "How do you approach applying GD&T to ensure manufacturability and functional requirements are met?" (Be prepared to discuss specific examples of critical dimensions and tolerances.)
• "Walk me through a project where you had to collaborate extensively with cross-functional teams. What was your role, and how did you ensure alignment and successful integration of your designs?" (Highlight communication and teamwork skills.)
• "Imagine you're tasked with designing a new fixture for a critical manufacturing process. What would be your first steps, and what factors would you prioritize?" (Demonstrate your systematic approach and understanding of DFM.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Boston Scientific and our commitment to innovation in the medical device industry?" (Research the company's mission, recent innovations, and values.)
• "How do you ensure quality and compliance in your design work, especially in a regulated environment like medical devices?" (Showcase your understanding of QMS and regulatory importance.)
• "Describe your ideal team environment and how you contribute to positive team dynamics." (Align your response with the collaborative culture described.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the problem statement, your design approach, key technical decisions, challenges overcome, and the quantifiable results or impact.
• Visual Aids are Key: Use clear, high-resolution images of your SolidWorks models, drawings, and potentially photos of the actual equipment/tooling. Annotate key features and GD&T.
• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions drilling down into specific technical aspects of your designs, material choices, manufacturing methods, and trade-offs you made.
• Connect to Boston Scientific: Where possible, draw parallels between your project experience and the types of challenges Boston Scientific might face in developing their medical devices.
• Showcase Problem-Solving: Emphasize instances where you identified and solved complex design issues, demonstrating critical thinking and ingenuity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize technical design skills, problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to operate effectively within Boston Scientific's quality-focused, collaborative environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Principal Designer position:

• Submit your application through the Boston Scientific careers portal via the provided link.
• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights your 8+ years of mechanical design experience, specific SolidWorks proficiency, GD&T expertise, and any experience in regulated industries like medical devices. Quantify achievements wherever possible.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 compelling design projects that demonstrate your skills in developing equipment, fixtures, or tooling. Focus on projects with clear problem statements, innovative solutions, and measurable outcomes. Be ready to present these digitally or in person.
• Research Boston Scientific: Understand their product portfolio, mission, and values. Familiarize yourself with the medical device industry and its regulatory landscape.
• Practice Interview Questions: Prepare thoughtful answers to common behavioral and technical questions, and practice articulating your design process and project experiences clearly and concisely.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.