Associate Engineer

About the role

The Associate Product Development Engineer will support the design, prototyping, testing, and refinement of implantable medical devices, delivery systems, and manufacturing fixtures. This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys designing, conducting laboratory experiments, and working hands-on with rapid prototyping and manufacturing equipment. Working closely with senior engineering staff, the Associate Engineer will contribute to product development through mechanical design, prototype fabrication, benchtop testing, and laboratory operations in a collaborative startup environment. This is a full‑time, on‑site position.

Primary Responsibilities

• Support the design and development of implantable medical devices, delivery systems, manufacturing fixtures, and laboratory tooling.
• Create and maintain 3D CAD models, assemblies, and engineering drawings using company drafting standards and best engineering practices.
• Design, fabricate, assemble, and troubleshoot prototypes using additive manufacturing, CNC machining, and other rapid prototyping methods.
• Plan, execute, document, and analyze benchtop experiments to evaluate device performance, manufacturing processes, and engineering concepts to support engineering decisions and process improvements.
• Support preclinical studies by preparing devices, fixtures, and test equipment and assisting with engineering activities before, during, and after studies.
• Maintain the engineering prototyping workshop, including organization, equipment maintenance, consumable inventory, calibration coordination, and implementation of safe operating practices.
• Operate and maintain laboratory and prototyping equipment, including 3D printers, CNC machines, laser cutters, microscopes, and other engineering equipment.
• Identify opportunities to improve prototype fabrication methods, laboratory organization, engineering workflows, and testing efficiency.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Operations, Quality, and external vendors to support successful product development activities.
• Support aseptic manufacturing activities for preclinical and clinical builds, including material preparation, equipment setup, process execution, and adherence to cleanroom and contamination control procedures.
• Assist the R&D team with broader company objectives and projects as they come up.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Associate's degree in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related engineering discipline
• 0–2 years of engineering experience (internships, undergraduate research, or co-op experience encouraged)
• Experience with CAD software (Fusion360 preferred)
• Familiarity with engineering drawings and mechanical design principles
• Experience with 3D printing, machining, fabrication, or other hands-on engineering projects
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
• Experience designing and conducting laboratory or engineering experiments
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced startup environment
• Ability to work on‑site in laboratory and controlled manufacturing environments, including standing for extended periods, performing hands‑on benchtop work, using PPE/cleanroom gowning as required, and lifting to 25 lbs.

Contraline offers a comprehensive benefits package—including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) with company contributions. In addition to these core offerings, Contraline believes in shared ownership, and this role is eligible to participate in the Company’s equity incentive program.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.

Contraline is a Charlottesville-based company working at the forefront of reproductive medicine. We believe that we go further when we go together. We are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace. If you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyways. All backgrounds, identities, and voices are welcomed!