Principal Medical Writer Jobs for OPT Students
Principal Medical Writer jobs are well-suited for OPT authorization, as the role consistently requires an advanced degree in a life sciences field, meeting the specialty occupation standard most employers use to evaluate F-1 candidates. STEM OPT extensions of up to 24 months are broadly available given the scientific nature of the work.
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Job Description Summary
Job Description
We are the makers of possible
BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world. Advancing the world of health™ is our Purpose, and it’s no small feat. It takes the imagination and passion of all of us—from design and engineering to the manufacturing and marketing of our billions of MedTech products per year—to look at the impossible and find transformative solutions that turn dreams into possibilities.
We believe that the human element, across our global teams, is what allows us to continually evolve. Join us and discover an environment in which you’ll be supported to learn, grow and become your best self. Become a maker of possible with us.
Job Summary
The Principal Medical Affairs associate is responsible for defining, implementing, and maintaining safety and effectiveness (S&E) requirements for both current and future products. This role leads the design, execution, and interpretation of feasibility, clinical, and human factors studies, serving as a key scientific and technical authority across project teams and cross-functional partners including Marketing, Regulatory Affairs, Research & Development, and Quality.
The Principal Medical Affairs associate identifies, evaluates, and advances new technologies and customer solutions, spanning both traditional and emerging scientific domains. The role also establishes and manages collaborations with internal and external experts (e.g., clinical, academic, regulatory, and industry partners) to support innovation, product development, and business objectives.
Additionally, this role generates, synthesizes, and communicates clinical and technical evidence to support innovation strategies, product development, regulatory submissions, and product lifecycle management. For marketed Specimen Management (SM) products, the role provides ongoing technical expertise, training, troubleshooting support, and competitive insights to ensure continued product performance and customer satisfaction.
Job Responsibilities
- Represents Medical Affairs in Specimen Management (SM) innovation, technology development, product development, and product lifecycle management teams. Identifies key trends and unmet needs in science, technology, medical practice, and health economics. Reviews information and assesses risks associated with vendor, material, and manufacturing process changes. Provides customer and product expertise to project teams. Develops safety and effectiveness (S&E) requirements and a clinical test plan to meet Regulatory and Marketing needs for new and improved products, and secures functional approval. Works with cross-functional partners to identify and evaluate new opportunities and present them to business leaders through the formal Innovation process. Ensures the safety, effectiveness, and clinical utility of products, technologies, and related labeling/promotional materials.
- Reviews and interprets medical and scientific data, study results, and technical literature. Monitors trends in specimen management and related technologies. Communicates key findings and interpretations to teams and management.
- Interacts with global medical, academic, and industry experts to help establish strategic direction for innovation, technology development, and product development initiatives.
- Provides clinical support for products entering the market or currently marketed, including training BD associates, troubleshooting, data review, interpretation and presentation, post-market study design, publication development, preparation or review of regulatory communications, and addressing quality-related issues.
- Designs studies and leads scientific investigations, feasibility assessments, and due-diligence evaluations related to new technologies and products. Prepares technical reports, abstracts, journal manuscripts, and presents findings at scientific meetings or internal BD forums.
- Reviews information and assesses risks associated with vendor, material, and manufacturing process changes. Designs clinical studies as needed and interprets and presents findings.
- Provides medical expertise and leadership for Human Factors Engineering (HFE) studies, Health Economics & Outcomes Research (HEOR) initiatives, post-market surveillance, and post-market clinical studies.
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor of Science (BS) or Master of Science (MS) degree in a health-related field, such as Biochemistry, Chemistry, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Nursing, or similar disciplines. A PhD in a relevant field is desirable.
- 2+ years of clinical laboratory, clinical research, or related healthcare field experience; experience in a medical device, IVD, or pharmaceutical company is a plus.
- ASCP MLS certification (or equivalent), or advanced training or board certification in clinical chemistry, microbiology, molecular biology, or other specialized clinical laboratory disciplines.
Knowledge and Skills
- Knowledge of scientific methodologies and their application in clinical laboratory medicine.
- Solid understanding of clinical studies, including study design, execution, data interpretation, and analysis.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills, including empathy, effective listening, collaboration, and conflict-resolution abilities.
- Ability to comprehend, interpret, and clearly communicate complex clinical and scientific information in a concise and accessible manner.
- Strong verbal, written, and presentation communication skills.
Pay Transparency Statement:
At BD, we are committed to supporting our associates’ well-being, development, and success through a performance-based culture. For this position, BD offers a competitive compensation package along with the following benefits specific to this role:
- Annual Bonus
- Potential Discretionary LTI Bonus
Health and Well-being Benefits
- Medical coverage
- Health Savings Accounts
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Dental coverage
- Vision coverage
- Hospital Care Insurance
- Critical Illness Insurance
- Accidental Injury Insurance
- Life and AD&D insurance
- Short-term disability coverage
- Long-term disability insurance
- Long-term care with life insurance
Other Well-being Resources
- Anxiety management program
- Wellness incentives
- Sleep improvement program
- Diabetes management program
- Virtual physical therapy
- Emotional/mental health support programs
- Weight management programs
- Gastrointestinal health program
- Substance use management program
- Musculoskeletal surgery, cancer treatment, and bariatric surgery benefit
Retirement and Financial Well-being
- BD 401(k) Plan
- BD Deferred Compensation and Restoration Plan
- 529 College Savings Plan
- Financial counseling
- Baxter Credit Union (BCU)
- Daily Pay
- College financial aid and application guidance
Life Balance Programs
- Paid time off (PTO), including all required State leaves
- Educational assistance/tuition reimbursement
- MetLife Legal Plan
- Group auto and home insurance
- Pet insurance
- Commuter benefits
- Discounts on products and services
- Academic Achievement Scholarship
- Service Recognition Awards
- Employer matching donation
- Workplace accommodations
Other Life Balance Programs
- Adoption assistance
- Backup day care and eldercare
- Support for neurodivergent adults, children, and caregivers
- Caregiving assistance for elderly and special needs individuals
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Paid Parental Leave
- Support for fertility, birthing, postpartum, and age-related hormonal changes
Leave Programs
- Bereavement leaves
- Military leave
- Personal leave
- Family and Medical Leave (FML)
- Jury and Witness Duty Leave
At BD, we prioritize on-site collaboration because we believe it fosters creativity, innovation, and effective problem-solving, which are essential in the fast-paced healthcare industry. For most roles, we require a minimum of 4 days of in-office presence per week to maintain our culture of excellence and ensure smooth operations, while also recognizing the importance of flexibility and work-life balance. Remote or field-based positions will have different workplace arrangements which will be indicated in the job posting.
For certain roles at BD, employment is contingent upon the Company’s receipt of sufficient proof that you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. In some locations, testing for COVID-19 may be available and/or required. Consistent with BD’s Workplace Accommodations Policy, requests for accommodation will be considered pursuant to applicable law.
Why Join Us?
A career at BD means being part of a team that values your opinions and contributions and that encourages you to bring your authentic self to work. It’s also a place where we help each other be great, we do what’s right, we hold each other accountable, and learn and improve every day.
To find purpose in the possibilities, we need people who can see the bigger picture, who understand the human story that underpins everything we do. We welcome people with the imagination and drive to help us reinvent the future of health. At BD, you’ll discover a culture in which you can learn, grow, and thrive. And find satisfaction in doing your part to make the world a better place.
Primary Work Location
USA NJ - Franklin Lakes
Work Shift
At BD, we are strongly committed to investing in our associates—their well-being and development, and in providing rewards and recognition opportunities that promote a performance-based culture. We demonstrate this commitment by offering a valuable, competitive package of compensation and benefits programs which you can learn more about on our Careers Site under Our Commitment to You.
Salary or hourly rate ranges have been implemented to reward associates fairly and competitively, as well as to support recognition of associates’ progress, ranging from entry level to experts in their field, and talent mobility. There are many factors, such as location, that contribute to the range displayed. The salary or hourly rate offered to a successful candidate is based on experience, education, skills, and any step rate pay system of the actual work location, as applicable to the role or position. Salary or hourly pay ranges may vary for Field-based and Remote roles.
Salary Range Information
$130,400.00 - $215,200.00 USD Annual
Becton, Dickinson, and Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We evaluate applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, disability, military eligibility or veteran status, and other legally-protected characteristics.

Job Description Summary
Job Description
We are the makers of possible
BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world. Advancing the world of health™ is our Purpose, and it’s no small feat. It takes the imagination and passion of all of us—from design and engineering to the manufacturing and marketing of our billions of MedTech products per year—to look at the impossible and find transformative solutions that turn dreams into possibilities.
We believe that the human element, across our global teams, is what allows us to continually evolve. Join us and discover an environment in which you’ll be supported to learn, grow and become your best self. Become a maker of possible with us.
Job Summary
The Principal Medical Affairs associate is responsible for defining, implementing, and maintaining safety and effectiveness (S&E) requirements for both current and future products. This role leads the design, execution, and interpretation of feasibility, clinical, and human factors studies, serving as a key scientific and technical authority across project teams and cross-functional partners including Marketing, Regulatory Affairs, Research & Development, and Quality.
The Principal Medical Affairs associate identifies, evaluates, and advances new technologies and customer solutions, spanning both traditional and emerging scientific domains. The role also establishes and manages collaborations with internal and external experts (e.g., clinical, academic, regulatory, and industry partners) to support innovation, product development, and business objectives.
Additionally, this role generates, synthesizes, and communicates clinical and technical evidence to support innovation strategies, product development, regulatory submissions, and product lifecycle management. For marketed Specimen Management (SM) products, the role provides ongoing technical expertise, training, troubleshooting support, and competitive insights to ensure continued product performance and customer satisfaction.
Job Responsibilities
- Represents Medical Affairs in Specimen Management (SM) innovation, technology development, product development, and product lifecycle management teams. Identifies key trends and unmet needs in science, technology, medical practice, and health economics. Reviews information and assesses risks associated with vendor, material, and manufacturing process changes. Provides customer and product expertise to project teams. Develops safety and effectiveness (S&E) requirements and a clinical test plan to meet Regulatory and Marketing needs for new and improved products, and secures functional approval. Works with cross-functional partners to identify and evaluate new opportunities and present them to business leaders through the formal Innovation process. Ensures the safety, effectiveness, and clinical utility of products, technologies, and related labeling/promotional materials.
- Reviews and interprets medical and scientific data, study results, and technical literature. Monitors trends in specimen management and related technologies. Communicates key findings and interpretations to teams and management.
- Interacts with global medical, academic, and industry experts to help establish strategic direction for innovation, technology development, and product development initiatives.
- Provides clinical support for products entering the market or currently marketed, including training BD associates, troubleshooting, data review, interpretation and presentation, post-market study design, publication development, preparation or review of regulatory communications, and addressing quality-related issues.
- Designs studies and leads scientific investigations, feasibility assessments, and due-diligence evaluations related to new technologies and products. Prepares technical reports, abstracts, journal manuscripts, and presents findings at scientific meetings or internal BD forums.
- Reviews information and assesses risks associated with vendor, material, and manufacturing process changes. Designs clinical studies as needed and interprets and presents findings.
- Provides medical expertise and leadership for Human Factors Engineering (HFE) studies, Health Economics & Outcomes Research (HEOR) initiatives, post-market surveillance, and post-market clinical studies.
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor of Science (BS) or Master of Science (MS) degree in a health-related field, such as Biochemistry, Chemistry, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Nursing, or similar disciplines. A PhD in a relevant field is desirable.
- 2+ years of clinical laboratory, clinical research, or related healthcare field experience; experience in a medical device, IVD, or pharmaceutical company is a plus.
- ASCP MLS certification (or equivalent), or advanced training or board certification in clinical chemistry, microbiology, molecular biology, or other specialized clinical laboratory disciplines.
Knowledge and Skills
- Knowledge of scientific methodologies and their application in clinical laboratory medicine.
- Solid understanding of clinical studies, including study design, execution, data interpretation, and analysis.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills, including empathy, effective listening, collaboration, and conflict-resolution abilities.
- Ability to comprehend, interpret, and clearly communicate complex clinical and scientific information in a concise and accessible manner.
- Strong verbal, written, and presentation communication skills.
Pay Transparency Statement:
At BD, we are committed to supporting our associates’ well-being, development, and success through a performance-based culture. For this position, BD offers a competitive compensation package along with the following benefits specific to this role:
- Annual Bonus
- Potential Discretionary LTI Bonus
Health and Well-being Benefits
- Medical coverage
- Health Savings Accounts
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Dental coverage
- Vision coverage
- Hospital Care Insurance
- Critical Illness Insurance
- Accidental Injury Insurance
- Life and AD&D insurance
- Short-term disability coverage
- Long-term disability insurance
- Long-term care with life insurance
Other Well-being Resources
- Anxiety management program
- Wellness incentives
- Sleep improvement program
- Diabetes management program
- Virtual physical therapy
- Emotional/mental health support programs
- Weight management programs
- Gastrointestinal health program
- Substance use management program
- Musculoskeletal surgery, cancer treatment, and bariatric surgery benefit
Retirement and Financial Well-being
- BD 401(k) Plan
- BD Deferred Compensation and Restoration Plan
- 529 College Savings Plan
- Financial counseling
- Baxter Credit Union (BCU)
- Daily Pay
- College financial aid and application guidance
Life Balance Programs
- Paid time off (PTO), including all required State leaves
- Educational assistance/tuition reimbursement
- MetLife Legal Plan
- Group auto and home insurance
- Pet insurance
- Commuter benefits
- Discounts on products and services
- Academic Achievement Scholarship
- Service Recognition Awards
- Employer matching donation
- Workplace accommodations
Other Life Balance Programs
- Adoption assistance
- Backup day care and eldercare
- Support for neurodivergent adults, children, and caregivers
- Caregiving assistance for elderly and special needs individuals
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Paid Parental Leave
- Support for fertility, birthing, postpartum, and age-related hormonal changes
Leave Programs
- Bereavement leaves
- Military leave
- Personal leave
- Family and Medical Leave (FML)
- Jury and Witness Duty Leave
At BD, we prioritize on-site collaboration because we believe it fosters creativity, innovation, and effective problem-solving, which are essential in the fast-paced healthcare industry. For most roles, we require a minimum of 4 days of in-office presence per week to maintain our culture of excellence and ensure smooth operations, while also recognizing the importance of flexibility and work-life balance. Remote or field-based positions will have different workplace arrangements which will be indicated in the job posting.
For certain roles at BD, employment is contingent upon the Company’s receipt of sufficient proof that you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. In some locations, testing for COVID-19 may be available and/or required. Consistent with BD’s Workplace Accommodations Policy, requests for accommodation will be considered pursuant to applicable law.
Why Join Us?
A career at BD means being part of a team that values your opinions and contributions and that encourages you to bring your authentic self to work. It’s also a place where we help each other be great, we do what’s right, we hold each other accountable, and learn and improve every day.
To find purpose in the possibilities, we need people who can see the bigger picture, who understand the human story that underpins everything we do. We welcome people with the imagination and drive to help us reinvent the future of health. At BD, you’ll discover a culture in which you can learn, grow, and thrive. And find satisfaction in doing your part to make the world a better place.
Primary Work Location
USA NJ - Franklin Lakes
Work Shift
At BD, we are strongly committed to investing in our associates—their well-being and development, and in providing rewards and recognition opportunities that promote a performance-based culture. We demonstrate this commitment by offering a valuable, competitive package of compensation and benefits programs which you can learn more about on our Careers Site under Our Commitment to You.
Salary or hourly rate ranges have been implemented to reward associates fairly and competitively, as well as to support recognition of associates’ progress, ranging from entry level to experts in their field, and talent mobility. There are many factors, such as location, that contribute to the range displayed. The salary or hourly rate offered to a successful candidate is based on experience, education, skills, and any step rate pay system of the actual work location, as applicable to the role or position. Salary or hourly pay ranges may vary for Field-based and Remote roles.
Salary Range Information
$130,400.00 - $215,200.00 USD Annual
Becton, Dickinson, and Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We evaluate applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, disability, military eligibility or veteran status, and other legally-protected characteristics.
How to Get Visa Sponsorship as a Principal Medical Writer
Lead with your regulatory writing experience
Principal-level roles require demonstrated ownership of clinical documents like CSRs, IBs, and NDA/BLA submissions. Quantify your output in your resume and cover letter. Employers sponsoring OPT want evidence you can operate independently from day one.
Target CROs and mid-size biopharma companies
Contract research organizations and growth-stage biopharma firms hire medical writers at volume and are more accustomed to OPT sponsorship than smaller startups. Their HR teams understand work authorization timelines and are better positioned to support your status.
Emphasize your therapeutic area depth
Generalist writers are easier to pass over. Employers prioritize candidates with deep experience in oncology, rare disease, or neurology. Positioning yourself within a specific therapeutic area signals you bring specialized value that justifies the sponsorship conversation.
Address your OPT timeline proactively
Don't wait for employers to raise the authorization question. Mention your OPT end date and STEM extension eligibility early in conversations. Clarity reduces hesitation and shows you understand the timeline, which builds employer confidence rather than concern.
Highlight your degree alignment clearly
Principal Medical Writer roles require a graduate degree in pharmacy, medicine, life sciences, or a closely related field. Make the connection between your degree and the role explicit in your application materials. Ambiguity about qualification creates unnecessary friction with hiring teams.
Build a portfolio of regulatory document samples
If permitted by prior employers, curate anonymized writing samples showing your range across document types. A portfolio demonstrating CSR structure, synopsis writing, or protocol drafting gives hiring teams concrete evidence of your capability at the principal level.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Can F-1 OPT students work as Principal Medical Writers?
Yes. Principal Medical Writer roles qualify under OPT because they consistently require an advanced degree in a life sciences or health-related field, meeting the specialty occupation standard. Most employers in pharma and CRO settings are familiar with OPT authorization. STEM OPT extensions typically apply given the scientific degree requirements involved.
Does a Principal Medical Writer role qualify for a STEM OPT extension?
In most cases, yes. The STEM OPT extension applies when your degree is on the USCIS STEM designated degree list and your employer is enrolled in E-Verify. Degrees in pharmaceutical sciences, biomedical sciences, chemistry, and biology commonly qualify. Confirm your specific degree is listed and that your employer meets the E-Verify requirement before applying for the extension.
How do I find Principal Medical Writer jobs open to OPT candidates?
Migrate Mate is the recommended platform for OPT students in this search. It filters for employers who sponsor work authorization, so you're not applying blindly to postings that will screen you out. Searching there saves significant time compared to filtering through general job boards where sponsorship openness is rarely disclosed upfront.
What degree do I need to qualify for Principal Medical Writer roles on OPT?
Most employers require a graduate degree, typically a master's or doctorate, in a field directly related to the work, such as pharmacology, biomedical sciences, medicine, pharmacy, or a clinical discipline. An undergraduate degree in a life sciences field may qualify for some postings, but principal-level roles almost universally expect advanced credentials to support both the job requirements and OPT eligibility.
How much OPT time should I have remaining when applying for Principal Medical Writer positions?
Aim to have at least six months of OPT remaining when you start applying. Principal-level hiring processes are thorough, often involving writing assessments and multiple interview rounds, which can take eight to twelve weeks. If you're STEM-eligible, your extension gives you additional runway, but starting the search early avoids unnecessary pressure on your authorization timeline.
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