How to recruit and retain skilled medtech professionals

5 Minutes

Strategic Recruitment in the Evolving Medical Technology IndustryIn today’s rapidly ad...

Strategic Recruitment in the Evolving Medical Technology Industry

In today’s rapidly advancing healthcare ecosystem, medical technology (medtech) is revolutionising how we diagnose, monitor, and treat health conditions. From AI-driven diagnostics to minimally invasive surgical devices and wearable health monitors, this sector is driving unprecedented innovation. But with such rapid evolution comes a pressing need for specialised, adaptable talent—and finding the right professionals in a tightening talent market is more challenging than ever.

To succeed, organisations must go beyond simply filling vacancies. They need a targeted, strategic approach to medtech recruitment that aligns with the pace and precision of the industry.

Understand the Skills Gap

One of the biggest hurdles in medtech is the skills gap—a shortage of professionals who combine technical expertise with interdisciplinary knowledge in areas like bioengineering, software development, regulatory affairs, and data science.

Whether your company develops diagnostic platforms, robotic surgery systems, or patient monitoring tools, you need professionals who can operate at the convergence of engineering, clinical science, and emerging technologies.

Job descriptions should go beyond academic requirements. Highlight the need for hands-on experience, problem-solving ability, and innovative thinking. These qualities are essential to thrive in a sector where agility and cross-functional collaboration are vital.

Build a Targeted Recruitment Strategy

The best medtech professionals are often not actively seeking new roles. To engage this talent, traditional recruitment tactics aren’t enough.

  • Proactive sourcing is essential: utilise medtech-specific recruiters, targeted headhunting, and detailed talent mapping.
  • Specialist platforms and industry networks can uncover passive candidates with the niche expertise your company needs.
  • Invest in employer branding: showcase your organisation as a pioneer in innovation, with a culture that supports growth and development. Candidates are far more likely to join—and stay with—companies whose missions they believe in.

Focus on Cultural Alignment

In a complex and collaborative field like medical technology, technical capabilities must be paired with a strong cultural fit. Employees should align with your organisation’s values, purpose, and long-term vision—especially in a sector that directly impacts lives.

When assessing candidates, consider:

  • How do they work in interdisciplinary teams?
  • Their commitment to ethical innovation.
  • Their long-term aspirations.

This cultural alignment enhances retention and helps build high-performing, mission-driven teams.

Offer Competitive and Purposeful Packages

While salary remains important, top medtech professionals are looking for more than just compensation.

  • Offer exciting, purpose-led projects that contribute to improved patient outcomes and healthcare access.
  • Provide clear career pathways, access to training, and opportunities to attend global conferences or collaborate with leading research institutions.
  • Include flexible working options, particularly as medtech roles become increasingly digital.

Emphasise the impact of their work—how it contributes to society, improves lives, and advances global health.

Retention Begins at Onboarding

A strong onboarding process builds connection, clarity, and confidence from day one. Pair new hires with mentors, schedule regular check-ins, and foster an inclusive environment where their contributions are recognised early.

Long-term retention hinges on creating a workplace where professionals feel supported, inspired, and integral to the company’s mission.

At Mackinnon Bruce International, we work closely with leading medical technology companies to deliver bespoke talent solutions that keep pace with innovation. From early-stage startups to global leaders, we understand what it takes to find, engage, and retain the experts shaping the future of healthcare.

Visit our medical technology page to explore the roles we hire for and discover how we can support your next strategic hire.

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