Optimizing Medical Device Recruitment for Exponential Growth

Lori Freeman
April 24, 2024

The medical device industry is booming - the global market is projected to hit $605 billion by 2025. That's a whole lot of opportunity, but also a whole lot of competition for top talent. As a recruiting team well-versed in this ever-changing landscape, we have some thoughts.

The reality is, finding the right people for these highly specialized roles is no easy feat. We're talking about a serious talent shortage. These companies need unicorns - people who not only have the technical chops but also the regulatory know-how to navigate the complex web of FDA compliance and global standards. Good luck finding that on your average job board.

The industry is facing several key challenges when it comes to recruitment:

Talent Shortage

The pool of candidates with highly specialized skills to meet the industry's demands has always been slim. Companies are struggling to attract and retain top talent, as the rapid technological advancements in the field have created a significant skills gap.

Regulatory Complexity

The highly regulated nature of the medical device industry requires professionals with a deep understanding of regulatory frameworks, such as FDA compliance and CE marking. Navigating this evolving landscape is a critical challenge for employers but not one that can’t be solved with some savvy recruiting approaches.  

Globalization

As medical device companies expand into international markets, there is a growing need for professionals with cross-cultural competence, knowledge of global regulatory requirements, and experience in navigating complex supply chains. The same old same old recruiting approaches won’t get you far.  

So how do you stand out and attract the best and brightest in this rapidly growing industry? You've gotta get unconventional.

First, Ditch the Ineffective Recruitment Playbook

Forget generic job postings, trolling LinkedIn, and relying on referrals (a sure way to decrease diversity). Dig in! To reach top talent, you've got to go where they are. Think niche industry events, specialized online communities, and even social media influencers.

…then Shine a Spotlight on Your  Purpose

The people you’re looking for have moved beyond a desire for superficial perks. I  continue to be encouraged by upcoming generations’ interest in making a positive impact in the world. Highlight your company's mission to improve patient outcomes and transform healthcare. That's the kind of purpose that gets people excited.

…and please don’t overlook your  Existing Talent

With the rapid pace of innovation in this industry, your current employees are your most valuable assets. Commit to upskilling and reskilling them - not only will it help bridge the skills gap, but it shows your team that you're invested in their growth. Great employees crave learning and development. Even if they’re not interested in climbing the ladder, talented people want to grow and be challenged.


The medical device industry may be an ever-evolving field marked by continuous hiring challenges, but that also means there's plenty of room for the bold and the unconventional to make their mark. So, ditch the status quo, get creative, and stand out.

If you’re looking for an ally in this work, we’d love to come alongside you in making your talent dreams a reality so you can focus on what you do best.

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