Back to search
An experienced R&D Manager with mechanical engineering expertise is sought to lead the R&D team. This role involves managing a small team of engineers, scientists, and technicians to develop and improve a range of innovative chemistry equipment while also playing a 'hands-on' mechanical engineering role. The position offers a dynamic environment, collaborating with experienced technical experts to create products advancing chemical research.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead, mentor, and inspire a multidisciplinary R&D team, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence through communication.
- Manage the New Product Development (NPD) process from concept through production, ensuring technical excellence, quality, and cost-efficiency while collaborating with internal and external partners.
- Oversee the strategic Product Development Programme (PDP), aligning with market demands and organizational objectives.
- Support the New Product Introduction (NPI) process for smooth project transitions into production and launch.
- Oversee the Engineering Change Request (ECR) process.
- Design innovative solutions meeting customer needs while leading individual NPD and product improvement projects.
- Conduct mechanical and electromechanical design using SolidWorks.
- Evaluate and integrate mechanical and electronic components.
- Source materials and mitigate supplier bottlenecks.
- Establish test protocols, collect data, and analyze results.
- Plan and cost projects, including creating project plans, timelines, and budgets.
- Prepare and update product documentation, such as instructions, production packs, BOMs, and QA/testing procedures.
About You
An experienced people manager and mechanical engineer with a proven track record in industrial or R&D environments. The ideal candidate will:
- Be skilled in team management, technical project delivery, and motivating high-performance teams.
- Hold expertise in mechanical design and a solid understanding of electronic design.
- Demonstrate strong knowledge of SolidWorks and manufacturing processes.
- Possess excellent communication skills and the ability to present ideas effectively.
- Lead the R&D team to develop innovative chemistry productivity tools, collaborating with engineers and scientists.
Specific Skills and Experience Required:
- Minimum 5 years' management experience building and managing high-performance teams.
- Minimum 10 years' experience in an industrial or R&D environment delivering projects on time and budget.
- Expertise in project management and team leadership.
- Degree in mechanical or electromechanical engineering.
- Design experience with mechanical and electronic products/components.
- Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes and materials.
- Ideally, knowledge of electronics circuit design and implementation.
- Proficiency in SolidWorks and SolidWorks PDM.
- Supplier management experience, including sourcing and negotiating.
- Excellent problem-solving skills.
Personal Qualities:
- Positive 'can-do' attitude.
- Strong communication and presentation skills.
- Drive and determination to overcome obstacles.
- Enthusiasm for engineering with a hands-on approach.
- Organized with attention to detail.
- Willingness to engage directly in practical work.
What We Offer:
- Comprehensive induction plan and ongoing training and development.
- Five weeks' holiday plus bank holidays.
- Pension contributions.
- Competitive salary.
- Flexible working hours and remote options.
- Discretionary annual bonus.
- Regular social events and company updates.
- Well-being support.
- Diverse, inclusive, and sustainable workplace.
Apply Now
If you feel that you have the skills and experience required in this advertisement to be an R&D Manager - Mechanical Engineer, please submit your CV including an outline of your experience as an R&D Manager - Mechanical Engineer. It is always a good idea to include a covering letter outlining your experience as an R&D Manager - Mechanical Engineer with your application as this will enhance your chances of selection and improve your prospects of landing the R&D Manager - Mechanical Engineer role you desire.
