(Junior) R&D Engineer Prototyping & Testing (m/w/d)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: (Junior) R&D Engineer Prototyping & Testing (m/f/d)

Company: Dentsply Sirona, Inc

Location: Bensheim, Hesse, Germany

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Research & Development / Engineering

Date Posted: April 21, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on hands-on product development, bridging the gap between engineering design and practical validation for innovative dental technologies.

• You will be instrumental in the testing and validation of new product prototypes, ensuring their reliability and performance under real-world conditions.

• This position requires a blend of analytical thinking for experimental planning and a practical approach to building and troubleshooting complex electromechanical systems.

• You will collaborate within interdisciplinary project teams to drive new solutions from concept through to series production readiness.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title includes "(Junior)", the "Mechatronics or Mechanical Engineering with a focus on Mechatronics" requirement, coupled with "several years of professional experience in life-cycle testing or product development," suggests this role is more suited for individuals with 2-5 years of experience rather than entry-level. The inclusion of terms like "complex systems" and "series production readiness" further supports this mid-level assessment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and construct endurance test rigs and specialized testing fixtures for components and complex systems, ensuring accurate and repeatable testing protocols.

• Design comprehensive experimental plans, execute tests meticulously, and conduct thorough analysis of results, integrating mechanical, electronic, pneumatic, and hydraulic measurement data.

• Build and validate prototypes to confirm design integrity and long-term reliability, ensuring they meet rigorous internal and external standards.

• Commission electrically operated machines in their prototype stages, performing initial functional checks and performance evaluations.

• Conduct in-depth troubleshooting and root cause analysis for design issues identified in complex devices during development and post-market phases, actively participating in risk analyses like FMEA.

• Monitor and integrate emerging technologies, materials, and processes within dental product development to foster innovation and translate insights into product ideas and requirements.

• Ensure all designs and documentation adhere to the company's Quality Management System and support regulatory compliance through active participation in audits.

• Contribute to the intellectual property strategy by assisting in the preparation of patent applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a hands-on approach to validation and testing, requiring a deep understanding of mechanical, electrical, and control systems. The inclusion of "complex systems," "FMEA," and "patent applications" indicates a role that demands significant technical depth and an ability to contribute to innovation beyond basic testing.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechatronics or Mechanical Engineering, with a specialization in Mechatronics.

Experience:

Required Skills:

• Prototyping & Test Rig Development: Proven ability to design, build, and implement endurance test rigs and specialized test fixtures.

• Experimental Design & Execution: Strong skills in planning, conducting, and analyzing experiments involving mechanics, electronics, pneumatics, and hydraulics.

• Measurement & Instrumentation: Proficiency in performing various measurement tasks across different engineering disciplines.

• Troubleshooting & Root Cause Analysis: Demonstrated capability in analyzing complex system issues, participating in FMEA, and identifying root causes of design defects.

• Programming Languages: Practical programming knowledge in LabVIEW, PLC, C++, and ANSI-C for microcontrollers.

• Regulatory Awareness: Familiarity with current Machine Directives and an understanding of their implications for product design and testing.

• Quality Management: Understanding of and adherence to Quality Management Systems (QMS) and support for audits.

• Teamwork & Autonomy: A highly collaborative, team-oriented work style combined with strong self-organization and independence.

• Language Proficiency: Excellent command of German (written and spoken).

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in the medical technology or dental product development industry.

• Familiarity with specific pneumatic and hydraulic systems.

• Basic understanding of intellectual property and patent application processes.

• English language proficiency (as it's noted as a "plus").

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific programming skills (LabVIEW, PLC, C++, ANSI-C) and familiarity with directives like the Machine Directive points to a need for practical engineering application. The combination of a degree and practical experience, along with the "plus" for English, suggests a role that values both academic rigor and hands-on capability, with German being the primary operational language.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate hands-on experience in building functional prototypes for validation purposes, showcasing complexity and problem-solving applied.

• Present detailed case studies of endurance testing or validation projects, highlighting experimental design, data acquisition, analysis methods, and key findings.

• Showcase examples of test rig or fixture design and implementation, illustrating the practical application of engineering principles to solve testing challenges.

• Include documentation or descriptions of troubleshooting processes for complex electromechanical systems, emphasizing systematic problem-solving and resolution.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of structured experimental planning and reporting, detailing the methodology, parameters, and outcomes.

• Examples of creating or maintaining documentation for test setups, procedures, and results in accordance with engineering best practices.

• Demonstrations of how process improvements were identified and implemented within testing or development workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on prototyping and testing, a portfolio should heavily feature visual evidence (photos, videos, diagrams) of prototypes and test setups, alongside clear explanations of the engineering challenges, solutions, and outcomes. Demonstrating a systematic approach to testing and problem-solving is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plans typical for German employment.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning in advanced dental technology.

• Paid time off and vacation days in accordance with German labor laws.

• Potential for international travel for up to 5% of the time, offering exposure to global projects.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours, typically 40 hours per week, with potential for some flexibility depending on project demands and experimental schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on publicly available data for similar engineering roles in Germany, adjusted for the specified experience level and location. Benefits are inferred based on standard practices for established companies like Dentsply Sirona in Germany.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Medical Technology / Dental Solutions. Dentsply Sirona is a global leader, setting standards in dental product innovation and patient care technology. This means the work is at the forefront of medical advancements, requiring high precision and adherence to stringent quality and regulatory standards.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (as indicated by Dentsply Sirona's global presence and NASDAQ listing). This suggests a structured environment with established processes, significant resources, and opportunities for career progression within a large organization.

Founded: Dentsply Sirona was formed through a merger in 2016, but its legacy companies have a much longer history. This blend of established expertise and forward-thinking innovation shapes its culture.

Team Structure:

• The R&D team likely comprises various specialists (e.g., mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, software developers, test engineers) working in project-based, interdisciplinary teams.

• Reporting structure would typically involve a Lead Engineer or R&D Manager, with clear lines of communication for project progress and technical guidance.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on experimental data and rigorous analysis to validate designs and drive product improvements.

• Agile/Iterative Development: Likely employs iterative approaches for prototyping and testing, allowing for rapid feedback loops.

• Process Optimization: Continuous focus on improving development and testing processes to enhance efficiency, reliability, and time-to-market.

Company Website: https://www.dentsplysirona.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Dentsply Sirona's position as a global leader implies a culture that values innovation, quality, and a commitment to advancing dental care. For an R&D engineer, this translates to working on cutting-edge projects with a strong emphasis on scientific rigor and compliance.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a "(Junior) R&D Engineer," typically indicating an individual contributor role for professionals with 2-5 years of experience. It's a foundational role in the R&D pipeline, focused on practical application and validation.

Reporting Structure: The engineer will likely report to an R&D Team Lead or Manager. Collaboration will extend to senior engineers, product managers, and cross-functional stakeholders, providing exposure to different facets of product development.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts product quality, reliability, and market readiness. Successful validation and testing by this engineer ensure that Dentsply Sirona's dental products meet high standards, contributing to patient safety and the company's reputation as a trusted partner. The insights gained from testing can also influence future product designs and innovation strategies.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like mechatronics, advanced testing methodologies, or specific programming languages (e.g., LabVIEW mastery).

• Project Leadership: Progress to leading specific testing phases or smaller development projects within larger R&D initiatives.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Transition into roles in product management, quality assurance, or manufacturing engineering, leveraging their deep product understanding.

• Senior R&D Engineer: Advance to a senior individual contributor role with increased responsibility for complex projects and mentorship of junior engineers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path from a "(Junior) R&D Engineer" in this context typically involves building technical depth and gaining broader project experience, leading to more autonomous roles or leadership opportunities within the R&D department or related functions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site in Bensheim, Germany, indicating a professional office and laboratory environment. This setting is crucial for hands-on work with prototypes, test equipment, and machinery.

Office Location(s): Bensheim, Hesse, Germany. This location likely offers access to a skilled engineering talent pool and is part of Dentsply Sirona's global R&D network.

Workspace Context:

• Laboratory Access: The role requires direct access to R&D labs equipped for mechanical, electrical, and mechatronic testing, including specialized measurement tools and machinery.

• Collaborative Spaces: Opportunities for interaction with colleagues in project rooms, meeting spaces, and within the lab environment itself to discuss technical challenges and solutions.

• Technology Integration: Access to industry-standard engineering software (CAD, simulation, programming environments), testing equipment, and data acquisition systems.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 hours/week) are expected. While core hours will be maintained, flexibility might be possible around specific experimental needs or project deadlines, provided operational requirements are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is critical for this role due to the hands-on nature of prototyping and testing. The environment will be a blend of office-based work for planning and analysis, and lab-based work for execution.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application, focusing on relevant education, experience, and technical skills (LabVIEW, PLC, mechatronics).

• Technical Interview: Expect in-depth questions about your experience with prototyping, test design, experimental execution, troubleshooting complex systems, and your programming skills (LabVIEW, PLC, C++). You may be asked to walk through specific projects from your resume.

• Hands-on Assessment/Case Study: A practical exercise or case study may be presented, requiring you to outline an approach to designing a test setup, planning an experiment, or diagnosing a hypothetical technical issue. This will assess your problem-solving methodology and technical thinking.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Discussion with potential team members and hiring manager to assess your collaboration style, self-organization, and alignment with Dentsply Sirona's values and the R&D team's dynamics.

• Final Interview: Likely with a senior R&D leader to discuss your overall fit, career aspirations, and understanding of the role's impact.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Practical Application: Showcase visual evidence (photos, videos, diagrams) of prototypes you've built, test rigs you've designed, and complex systems you've worked with.

• Detail Your Process: For each project, clearly explain the problem, your approach (experimental plan, design choices), the tools and technologies you used, and the results achieved. Quantify outcomes where possible (e.g., "reduced test time by X%", "identified Y critical failure modes").

• Emphasize Troubleshooting: Include examples where you identified and resolved complex technical issues. Describe your systematic approach to failure analysis (e.g., FMEA participation).

• Showcase Programming Skills: If possible, include snippets or descriptions of code (LabVIEW, PLC, C++) you've written for testing or control systems, explaining its purpose and impact.

• Tailor to the Role: Focus on projects that align with the responsibilities of prototyping, endurance testing, and validation in a mechatronic or electromechanical context.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be Ready for "How Would You...": Prepare to answer questions like "How would you design a test rig to measure the fatigue life of component X?" or "How would you troubleshoot a system that is intermittently failing during endurance testing?".

• Demonstrate Systematic Thinking: For any problem-solving scenario, outline a step-by-step approach, including initial diagnostics, hypothesis testing, data collection, and validation of solutions.

• Articulate Technical Concepts Clearly: Be prepared to explain complex technical concepts and your contributions in a concise and understandable manner, suitable for both technical and non-technical interviewers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio with visual evidence and detailed process descriptions is crucial for a hands-on R&D role. The interview process will likely test both theoretical knowledge and practical application capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Prototyping Equipment: Access to 3D printers, CNC machines, standard workshop tools, and assembly stations for building prototypes.

• Testing Apparatus: Endurance testing machines, specialized test rigs, environmental chambers, and material testing equipment.

• Measurement & Data Acquisition: Oscilloscopes, multimeters, signal generators, data loggers, strain gauges, and other sensor technologies.

• CAD/CAE Software: Tools for mechanical design (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) and potentially simulation software for analyzing mechanical behavior.

Analytics & Reporting:

• LabVIEW: Essential for developing virtual instruments, automating test sequences, and acquiring/analyzing real-time data.

• Statistical Software: Tools for analyzing experimental data, performing statistical significance tests, and generating reports (e.g., Minitab, JMP, or advanced Excel functions).

• Data Visualization Tools: Software for creating clear and informative graphs and charts from test results.

CRM & Automation:

• PLC Programming Software: For industrial automation controllers, likely specific to hardware vendors (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell).

• Microcontroller Development Environments: IDEs and compilers for C/C++ programming (e.g., Keil, IAR Embedded Workbench).

• Version Control Systems: Git or similar for managing code and documentation revisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in LabVIEW and PLC programming is explicitly stated and critical. Familiarity with C/C++ for microcontrollers and general measurement/data acquisition tools is also key. Experience with CAD software is implied for prototype design.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Excellence: A drive to push the boundaries of dental technology through rigorous R&D and a commitment to high-quality outcomes.

• Integrity & Compliance: Upholding the highest ethical standards and ensuring all products and processes meet stringent regulatory requirements.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where diverse teams work together effectively to achieve common goals, valuing input from all members.

• Customer Focus: Ultimately, all efforts are directed towards improving patient care and supporting dental professionals worldwide.

• Efficiency & Continuous Improvement: A mindset focused on optimizing processes, reducing waste, and enhancing the speed and effectiveness of development and testing.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary Project Teams: Expect to work closely with engineers from different disciplines, product managers, and potentially marketing or quality assurance representatives.

• Open Communication: A culture that encourages open discussion of technical challenges, sharing of ideas, and constructive feedback.

• Knowledge Sharing: Opportunities to learn from experienced colleagues and contribute to a collective knowledge base through documentation and informal discussions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Dentsply Sirona's values, as a global leader in healthcare, will emphasize quality, innovation, and ethical conduct. For an R&D role, this translates to a meticulous and collaborative approach to problem-solving and product development.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Systems: Working with intricate mechatronic systems that integrate mechanical, electrical, and software components can present complex troubleshooting scenarios.

• Pace of Innovation: The rapidly evolving dental technology landscape requires continuous learning and adaptation to new materials, processes, and standards.

• Balancing Rigor and Speed: Ensuring thorough testing and validation while meeting aggressive development timelines for new product launches.

• Interpreting Diverse Data: Synthesizing findings from mechanical, electrical, and software testing into a cohesive understanding of product performance.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized courses and certifications in areas like LabVIEW development, PLC programming, mechatronics, or specific testing methodologies.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Opportunities to attend events focused on dental technology, R&D, and engineering best practices.

• Mentorship Programs: Guidance from senior engineers and R&D leaders to foster technical and career growth within the company.

• Exposure to Global Projects: Potential involvement in international R&D initiatives, broadening perspective and cross-cultural collaboration skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to cutting-edge R&D roles, requiring adaptability and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Growth opportunities are geared towards deepening technical expertise and expanding project scope within a leading organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex prototype you designed and built. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?"

  • Preparation: Be ready to detail the design process, material selection, assembly, and any technical hurdles encountered. Focus on your problem-solving methodology and the outcome.

• "How would you approach designing an endurance test rig for a new dental device component? What parameters would you measure, and what standards would you consider?"

  • Preparation: Outline your experimental design process. Mention relevant standards (e.g., ISO, FDA if applicable to dental devices), data acquisition needs, and potential failure modes.

• "Walk me through a time you had to troubleshoot an intermittent failure in an electromechanical system. What steps did you take?"

  • Preparation: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Emphasize your systematic approach, use of diagnostic tools, and logical deduction.

• "What is your experience with LabVIEW/PLC programming? Provide an example of a specific application you developed."

  • Preparation: Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you utilized these tools, detailing the functionality and impact.

• "How do you ensure your designs and tests comply with relevant regulations and quality standards?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in Dentsply Sirona and this specific role?"

  • Preparation: Research the company's mission, recent innovations, and product lines. Connect your skills and career goals to the company's objectives and the role's responsibilities.

• "How do you approach collaboration within an interdisciplinary R&D team?"

  • Preparation: Highlight your ability to communicate technical information clearly to diverse audiences and your respect for different expertise.

• "Describe a situation where you had to work independently on a challenging technical problem."

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by skill demonstrated. Use clear headings and concise descriptions.

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem solved, your specific contribution, the technologies used, and the quantifiable results or learnings.

• Visual Aids are Key: Use high-quality photos, diagrams, or short videos of prototypes and test setups to make your work tangible.

• Be Ready to Explain: Anticipate questions about your design choices, testing methodologies, and any challenges encountered. Be prepared to go into detail on your technical approach.

• Tailor to the Interviewer: If you know the interviewer's background, adapt your explanations to their level of technical expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation emphasizes demonstrating both strong technical foundational knowledge in mechatronics and programming, as well as a systematic, problem-solving approach, crucial for validation and troubleshooting roles.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this R&D Engineer position:

• Submit your application through the Dentsply Sirona careers portal via the provided URL.

• Tailor your resume to highlight specific experience with prototyping, endurance testing, LabVIEW, PLC programming, and any relevant project management or troubleshooting successes. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare a portfolio that visually showcases your practical engineering work, including prototypes, test setups, and detailed case studies of your projects. Ensure it demonstrates your systematic approach to problem-solving and validation.

• Research Dentsply Sirona's current product lines and R&D focus areas to better articulate your interest and how your skills align with the company's innovation goals.

• Practice articulating your technical experience using the STAR method, especially for questions related to troubleshooting, experimental design, and complex system development.

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

---