New Product Development Engineer at Johnson & Johnson

Jun 24, 2025

Ruby Washington is a New Product Development Engineer at Johnson & Johnson. She specializes in designing medical device solutions for soft tissue repair in Sport Medicine and Orthopedics.

What is the highest degree you have earned and what can you tell us about your academic path?

I have a Bachelors of Science in Engineering degree in Bioengineering from the University of Pennsylvania. While at Penn, I conducted summer research in a Materials Science & Engineering lab, where I investigated microporous elastomers for smart window technology. Additionally, I embarked on a trip to Hong Kong and mainland China as part of a Global Biomedical Service course where our class worked with local engineering students to create custom orthotics for children with cerebral palsy. These experiences solidified my passion for using my technical skills to help others. The following summer, I had an internship with Johnson and Johnson in the Trauma division of DePuy Synthes where I supported the MAXFRAME product line, an external fixator device.

Where do you work now and what is your company about?

I am entering my fourth year of working at Johnson & Johnson. I support the MedTech l division which focuses on a variety of innovative medical solutions, and I am specifically in the DePuy Synthes division which offers a comprehensive orthopedics.

How did you first learn about the company?

My mentor that I was paired with through SMDP worked at Johnson & Johnson. It was through our mentorship that she connected me with various people related to her role that exposed me to the opportunities available at Johnson & Johnson.

What do you like most about the company?

I am continuously inspired that I am surrounded by talented and driven colleagues. The company also places a strong emphasis on investing in my professional development, which has helped me grow in my role. Additionally, there’s a genuine commitment to work-life balance, which allows me to perform at my best while maintaining a healthy personal life.

What skills make you successful in your role and why did you choose this role?

Two important skills that make me successful in my role are strong time management and flexibility. I often work with dynamic priorities and deadlines, so being able to organize my tasks and stay focused ensures that I meet expectations without sacrificing quality. I chose this role because it provides me with a balance of creativity, analysis, and collaboration with the focus of improving patient outcomes.

How do you define success?

I would define success as the impact I can make based on my learnings and can apply towards a larger purpose. I believe that great impact starts with small steps, and there are accomplishments worthy of recognition at every step along one’s career journey.

What's the most fulfilling aspect of your job?

The most fulfilling aspect of my job is collaborating closely with my project team and surgeons to ultimately support patients to recover from injury to regain mobility as quickly and safely as possible. Being part of that journey is incredibly rewarding.

What advice do you have for students and job seekers?

Networking is a highly valuable tool. Keep an open mind, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Building genuine connections can open doors to opportunities you might not expect.

What book did you read last?

On the Edge by Nate Silver