Postmarket Surveillance Analyst I

Title: Postmarket Surveillance Analyst I

Location: Plymouth, MN

Duration: 12 Month

Main Responsibilities

• Communicates verbally and in writing both internally and externally to SJM regarding information needed specific to new product complaints (e.g. physicians, hospital personnel, sales representatives, international offices), initiates and manages the complaint file
• Investigates complaints/events in a timely manner. Maintains accurate entry of complaints in database. Independently assesses the complaint to determine if a medical device report needs to be filed with various global regulatory agencies (e.g., FDA, European Competent Authorities) and sends reports within required timeframes. Prepares customer letters with findings. Records condition of returned products including observations, photographs. Coordinates product testing/analysis with other departments and external consultants.
• Prepares technical reports of analysis/findings--Tracks returned products within the database, as appropriate; Works collaboratively with cross-functional groups (e.g. QEs, R&D) on evaluation trends or findings; Interprets technical product specifications, Device History Records, or measurements obtained; and utilizes safe biohazard and chemical handling practices at all times.
• Duties associated with either role: Is diligent of any unusual trends in product complaints; Participates in cross-functional complaint review groups on a regular basis or as requested (e.g. cross-functional complaint teams, rapid customer response team, Risk Management meetings); Archives complaint records or returned products & retrieves information on previous investigations; Supports complaint database upgrades and conversions by providing input and performing system testing; Ensures accurate department procedures and work instructions are maintained; and support inspections by regulatory agencies (e.g. FDA, TUV) as requested.
• The Product Surveillance Analyst must be able to: Collaborate independently with other team members and departments needing product complaint information; Be able to conduct investigations with customers or field staff with minimal direction, utilizing experience and knowledge of products and various types of product complaints; Be able to make sound decisions regarding medical device reporting to various global regulatory agencies, minimizing the need for input from department management; Use procedures, judgment and experience to determine appropriate testing of returned products with minimal guidance; and be able to ascertain when additional support may be needed from other teams based on product analysis findings (e.g. potential manufacturing-related issues)
• Train others in Product Surveillance product complaint handling. Provide support to Legal Dept on product complaints. Support all Divisional initiatives as identified by divisional management and in support of Quality Management Systems (QMS), Environmental Management Systems (EMS), and other regulatory requirements.
• Complies with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, other regulatory requirements, Company policies, operating procedures, processes, and task assignments. Maintains positive and cooperative communications and collaboration with all levels of employees, customers, contractors, and vendors.
• Performs other related duties and responsibilities, on occasion, as assigned.
• Work environment varies from well lighted office/cubicle, low to moderate noise level, to a variety of conditions caused by travel requirements such as customer offices, research labs, hospitals, hotels, use of automobiles, commercial travel, weather, etc.
• Activities require a significant amount of sitting in front of a computer monitor, some standing and walking. Significant use of hands and arms, plus finger dexterity to reach, point, write, type, operate a computer and other office equipment. Performs tasks that regularly require good correctable vision and hand/eye coordination. Activities also require significant use of voice and hearing for discussions with other employees.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor's Degree (± 16 years)   

Preferably in the healthcare or science fields; or 2-year degree and relevant experience supporting complaint handling investigations, medical device reporting, or product analysis. Degreed applicants without medical, scientific, or complaint handling experience may be considered if they possess the strengths suitable for this position.  

• An equivalent combination of education and work experience

Experience/Background

• Knowledge of global regulations for medical device reporting and medical terminology is a plus. 
• Strong written and oral communication skills are required. Candidate must be able to work well independently and on teams in a busy department while managing multiple ongoing tasks and investigations simultaneously. Good problem-solving and proficient computer skills are required.
• Experience working in a broader enterprise/cross-division business unit model preferred. Ability to work in a highly matrixed and geographically diverse business environment. Ability to work within a team and as an individual contributor in a fast-paced, changing environment. Ability to leverage and/or engage others to accomplish projects.
• Multitasks, prioritizes and meets deadlines in timely manner. Strong organizational and follow-up skills, as well as attention to detail. 
• Ability to travel, including internationally. Ability to maintain regular and predictable attendance. 

Consultants Eligible Benefits Upon Waiting Period:

• Medical and Prescription Drug Plans
• Dental Plan
• Vision Plan
• Health Savings Account (for High Deductible Health Plans)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (Health, Limited Purpose, Dependent Care, Commuter Parking and Commuter Transit)
• Supplemental Life Insurance
• Short Term Disability (coverage varies by state)
• Long Term Disability
• Critical Illness, Hospital coverage, Accident Insurance
• MetLife Legal, MetLife ID Fraud, and MetLife Pet Insurance
• 401(k)

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritional and branded generic medicines.

Working together, Abbott and Talent Solutions partner to deliver top talent for contingent roles at Abbott, building better and healthier lives. Abbott believes all employees are essential to creating life-changing breakthroughs, performing key duties to create life-changing breakthroughs.