Graduate Leadership Development Programme – Mechanical/Biomedical Engineering

About the role

Smith+Nephew’s Leadership Development Programme (LDP) is a two‑year, rotational graduate role designed for recent Mechanical or Biomedical Engineering graduates. Based in Alajuela, Costa Rica, the programme offers hands‑on experience across Operations and Manufacturing functions, preparing future leaders in a global medical‑technology environment.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and support initiatives that improve productivity, quality, safety and cost performance.
• Apply lean principles and data‑driven decision‑making to optimise processes.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams locally and globally on project delivery.
• Present findings and recommendations to operational and site leaders.
• Adapt to multiple rotations across production, engineering, quality, supply chain and continuous improvement.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Biomedical Engineering, graduating between December 2025 and June 2026.
• Previous internship, co‑op or part‑time experience in a relevant field (preferred).
• Fluent English (B2+ level) with strong written and oral communication.
• Demonstrated leadership or project‑team experience.
• High learning agility and ability to analyse technical data.

Required skills

• Lean methodology (e.g., Lean Six Sigma).
• Data analysis.
• Project management.

What we offer

• A structured two‑year rotational programme with mentorship and leadership development.
• Exposure to senior leaders and global operations.
• Opportunities to contribute to quality, efficiency and sustainability initiatives.