Manufacturing Engineer I (Alajuela, Costa Rica)

Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.

The Engineer I will provide dedicated SolidWorks CAD modeling and drafting support for new product development and sustaining engineering teams. The primary focus is maintaining, updating, and creating accurate 3D models and 2D drawings for medical device components, assemblies, and packaging in accordance with FDA and ISO 13485 standards. Create, modify, and maintain technical documentation and design records within a data management (PDM/PLM) environment, ensuring version control and traceability.

Collaborate with cross-functional partners (R&D, engineering and quality) to ensure CAD models and drawings meet project requirements and timelines. This position executes CAD and documentation tasks under the direction of Engineers and does not hold independent design authority.

This role builds foundational medical‑device CAD, documentation, and change‑control skills, with potential progression into Design Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Product Development roles.

This position is a P1 level (internal use)

What will you be doing?

• CAD Management: Create, update, and manage 3D CAD models and detailed 2D drawings using SolidWorks.
• Engineering Changes (ECOs): Process and implement redlines, markups, and engineering change orders (ECO) to update designs and documentation. Ensure all CAD updates are executed in accordance with approved ECOs and flow through drawings, BOMs, and PLM records.
• Legacy Data Conversion: Convert older CAD files (PDFs, DXF) into modern, functional SolidWorks part and assembly files.
• Design Documentation: Maintain Design History Files (DHF) and ensure CAD drawings accurately reflect released product configurations.
• Drafting Standards: Ensure all drawings adhere to GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) standards and internal company templates.
• Collaboration: Work with engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure design changes are manufacturable and meet quality requirements. Support incorporation of supplier and manufacturing feedback into drawings under engineering guidance
• BOM Management: Support the creation and maintenance of Bills of Materials (BOM) in ERP systems.

What will you need to be successful?

Education: Bachelors Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Licenses/ Certifications: SolidWorks CSWA or equivalent certification preferred.

Experience:

• SolidWorks Proficiency: 1-3 years of professional experience (or intensive internship experience) utilizing SolidWorks in a drafting or design support role.
• Technical Knowledge: Basic understanding of GD&T, engineering drawings, and manufacturing processes (e.g., plastic injection molding, machining).
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to documentation to ensure precision in a regulated environment.
• Documentation Tools: Familiarity with PDM/PLM systems (e.g., SolidWorks PDM, Windchill).

Language: Advanced English level

Competences:

• Experience in the medical device industry (knowledge of ISO 13485, FDA 21 CFR 820).
• Experience with ERP systems.

Physical Demands: ability to lift 25lbs on an occasional basis

Travel Requirements: <10%

You. Unlimited

We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and the patients we serve.

Inclusion + Belonging - Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving. Learn more about our Employee Inclusion Groups on our website https://www.smith-nephew.com/

• Your future: stock purchase program, referral bonus, subsidy in transport and food, recognition program.
• Work/Life Balance: Extra days off, birthday off, voluntary hours.
• Your Wellbeing: company doctor, medical insurance, gym, health campaigns, employee assistance program, parental leave.
• Flexibility: Hybrid work model (for more professional roles), flexible schedules.
• Training: Training program, unlimited learning.
• Extra perks: employees association, and more…

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