Intern, Research & Development

Location: Leesburg, VA or Allendale, NJ
Company: VB Spine

Position Openings: 6

Are you an engineering student eager to gain hands-on experience in medical device development? At VB Spine, our R&D Interns contribute directly to the design, testing, and advancement of innovative spine technologies that improve patient outcomes. This internship is ideal for students who are technically curious, detail-oriented, and excited to apply engineering fundamentals in a fast-paced, regulated environment.

As an R&D Intern, you will support cross-functional engineering teams across various specialty groups, including New Product Development, Special Instruments, Sustaining Engineering, Process Development, and Biomechanics/Testing. Assignment will be based on business needs, project priorities, and individual interests.

What You’ll Do:

• Support engineering activities across one or more R&D groups, including New Product Development, Special Instruments, Sustaining, Process Development, and/or Biomechanics/Testing
• Assist with the design, modification, evaluation, and improvement of medical device components, instruments, and processes
• Create and update 3D CAD models and 2D engineering drawings using parametric CAD software (SolidWorks preferred)
• Support engineering lab and biomechanics activities, including test setup, fixture preparation, sample handling, execution of mechanical or functional testing, and data collection
• Assist in writing test protocols, procedures, and reports for product and process testing
• Accurately document experimental data, observations, and test results in alignment with design control requirements
• Collaborate with Operations and Manufacturing teams to support Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) initiatives
• Support updates to engineering documentation, including drawings, specifications, and design history files
• Participate in verification testing, cadaver labs, and process evaluations, as applicable
• Conduct literature reviews, data analysis, and basic root cause investigations
• Assist with workflow and data management activities within engineering systems (e.g., Jira or similar tools)
• Collaborate cross-functionally to support project milestones and timelines
• Learn and follow company procedures, quality system requirements, and safety standards
  
  

What You Bring:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Biomedical, Manufacturing, Biomechanical, or related field)
• Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship
• Strong interest in medical device development, testing, and manufacturing processes
• Experience with CAD software (SolidWorks preferred)
• Interest in hands-on laboratory and test environments
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, evolving environment
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• Ability to work independently with appropriate supervision
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate across cross-functional teams
  
  

• Hands-on experience within one of several R&D engineering groups based on assignment
• Exposure to the full medical device product lifecycle — from concept and design through testing, manufacturing, and post-market support
• Experience working in a regulated, cross-functional engineering environment
• Mentorship from experienced engineers across multiple R&D disciplines
• Opportunity to apply classroom learning to real-world engineering and testing challenges
• Insight into medical device design controls, verification and validation practices, and technical documentation requirements
• Professional networking opportunities with peers and leaders across the organization
• Increased marketability and preparation for future engineering careers
  
  

Why VB Spine?

At VB Spine, our interns are valued contributors who gain real responsibility and meaningful exposure to how regulated medical devices are developed, approved, and maintained. You’ll learn from experienced professionals and be part of a mission-driven organization focused on advancing spine care through innovation and quality.

Compensation:
This is a paid internship position with an hourly rate of $30 per hour.

This role is based in Leesburg, VA or Allendale, NJ. While non-local candidates may apply, relocation and housing assistance are not provided, and candidates are responsible for all related expenses.

VB Spine reserves the right to offer compensation outside of this listed range. Final compensation is determined on a case-by-case basis and considers factors such as experience level, skill set, and market conditions.