It started with a simple idea: what if surgery could be less invasive and recovery less painful? Nearly 30 years later, that question still fuels everything we do at Intuitive. As a global leader in robotic-assisted surgery and minimally invasive care, our technologies—like the da Vinci surgical system and Ion—have transformed how care is delivered for millions of patients worldwide.

We’re a team of engineers, clinicians, and innovators united by one purpose: to make surgery smarter, safer, and more human. Every day, our work helps care teams perform with greater precision and patients recover faster, improving outcomes around the world.

The problems we solve demand creativity, rigor, and collaboration. The work is challenging, but deeply meaningful—because every improvement we make has the potential to change a life.

If you’re ready to contribute to something bigger than yourself and help transform the future of healthcare, you’ll find your purpose here.

Primary Function of the Position

The Senior Supplier Engineer will be responsible for the manufacturing process selection, supplier selection & qualification of components for Intuitive's next-generation robotic platforms.

This individual will drive supplier engagement and technical strategy across a diverse set of technologies including motion control systems, electromechanical assemblies, electronics, and precision mechanical components. The role requires close partnership with multiple product development partners across Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Operations, Quality, Strategic Sourcing, Manufacturing Engineering, and Program Management functions to ensure successful execution of New Product Introduction (NPI) objectives.

The ideal candidate combines strong technical acumen with exceptional cross-functional influence and a demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing teams in complex, fast-paced product development environments.

Essential Job Duties

• Drive supplier engineering strategy for critical technologies as it relates to NPI programs
• Drive supplier selection, qualification, development, and technical risk mitigation activities
• Partner with ancillary Engineering and Sourcing teams to influence architecture, supplier engagement strategy, and make-versus-buy decisions
• Lead technical assessments of supplier capabilities, manufacturing readiness, quality systems, and scalability
• Drive design-for-manufacturability and design-for-supply-chain excellence throughout product development
• Partner with Program Management to identify, communicate, and mitigate program risks.
• Drive supplier selection, technical assessment, cost optimization, performance improvement, and manufacturing readiness for these technologies:
  • Motor assemblies
  • Encoders and sensing technologies
  • Gearboxes
  • Brakes and actuation mechanisms
  • Bearings, rails, ball screws, and precision motion hardware
  • Printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs)
  • Cable assemblies and interconnect systems
  • Precision machined components
  • Castings and forgings
  • Sheet metal assemblies

• Build strong partnerships across ancillary engineering, operations, quality, sourcing, manufacturing, and executive leadership teams
• Influence technical and business decisions without direct authority
• Facilitate alignment among diverse stakeholders with competing priorities
• Communicate effectively with collaborating teams

Required Skills and Experience

• Proven ability in New Product Introduction
• Outstanding analytical skills along with good judgment
• Strong knowledge of GD&T required
• Proficient in Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing techniques
• Proficient in pFMEA, process validation, route cause investigation, inspection, and test techniques
• Knowledge of document management systems and ERP Systems, preferably Agile and SAP
• Knowledge of 21 CFR part 820 and ISO 13485 preferred
• Demonstrable knowledge of a wide range of manufacturing processes, including an understanding of key input variables for quality, cost, and capacity
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated Project Management skills
• Experience in a high-volume medical device company is a plus
• Ability to travel to suppliers on an as-needed basis – domestic and international (25%)

Required Education and Experience

• BSE degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, or equivalent (advanced degree preferred)
• 8 or more years related experience in Manufacturing, Operations, Supplier Development, or related field with significant medical or medical device experience preferred

Due to the nature of our business and the role, please note that Intuitive and/or your customer(s) may require that you show current proof of vaccination against certain diseases including COVID-19.  Details can vary by role.

Intuitive is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type, without regard to race, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, color, age, religion, protected veteran or disability status, genetic information or any other status protected under federal, state, or local applicable laws.

Mandatory Notices

U.S. Export Controls Disclaimer:  In accordance with the U.S. Export Administration Regulations (15 CFR §743.13(b)), some roles at Intuitive Surgical may be subject to U.S. export controls for prospective employees
who are nationals from countries currently on embargo or sanctions status.

Certain information you provide as part of the application will be used for purposes of determining whether Intuitive Surgical will need to (i) obtain an export license from the U.S. Government on your behalf (note: the government’s licensing process can take 3 to 6+ months) or (ii) implement a Technology Control Plan (“TCP”) (note: typically adds 2 weeks to the hiring process).  

For any Intuitive role subject to export controls, final offers are contingent upon obtaining an approved export license and/or an executed TCP prior to the prospective employee’s
start date, which may or may not be flexible, and within a timeframe that does not unreasonably impede the hiring need. If applicable, candidates will be notified and instructed on any requirements for these purposes. 

We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with fair chance laws.

Preference will be given to qualified candidates who do not reside, or plan to reside, in Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, or Tennessee.

This position may be filled at a different job level than listed here depending on
business need and/or on the selected candidate’s experience, knowledge and skills.
Compensation will be based primarily on the job level at which the role is filled and the
candidate’s qualifications, consistent with applicable law.

Accommodation & Accessibility Notice:

Intuitive is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you require assistance or an accommodation during any part of the application or interview process, please contact People Services at [email protected].

We provide market-competitive compensation packages, inclusive of base pay, incentives, benefits, and equity. It would not be typical for someone to be hired at the top end of range for the role, as actual pay will be determined based on several factors, including experience, skills, and qualifications. The target compensation ranges are listed.