At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead R&D projects, develop prototypes, and solve technical challenges in a hands-on role.
- Company: Respected engineering firm specialising in advanced composite structures.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £45,000, investment in development, and varied projects.
- Other info: Dynamic workshop environment with a focus on safety and technical excellence.
- Why this job: Join a team driving innovation and make a real impact in engineering.
- Qualifications: Strong CNC programming skills and experience with metallic and composite materials.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 54000 £ per year.
Our client is a well-established and highly respected engineering and manufacturing business specialising in advanced composite structures. Serving a diverse range of high-performance industries, they combine technical expertise with craftsmanship to deliver precision-engineered solutions. With strong in-house capabilities across machining, tooling and quality assurance, they are committed to innovation, continuous improvement and sustainable manufacturing practices.
As Research and Development Manager, you will play a pivotal hands-on role in driving technical innovation and early-stage product development. You will lead R&D activity within a dedicated workshop environment, developing prototypes, tooling and experimental solutions in both metallic and composite materials while collaborating closely with engineering and production teams.
Responsibilities of the Research and Development Manager:- Lead the design, machining and fabrication of prototype components, tooling and bespoke fixtures using CNC and manual methods
- Drive technical problem-solving, generating innovative solutions to support new products, processes and development challenges
- Manage R&D workshop operations, ensuring safe working practices, equipment maintenance and technical excellence
- Strong CNC programming and machining capability, producing parts to tight tolerances
- Practical experience working with both metallic and composite materials
- Electrical engineering knowledge with the ability to build or troubleshoot simple control and wiring systems
Competitive salary up to £45,000 depending on experience. Varied, technically challenging projects across multiple industries. Investment in equipment, development and continuous improvement.
If you are a practical problem-solver with a passion for engineering innovation and prototype development, we would love to hear from you.
Head of Research & Development Manager (R&D) in Devon employer: CA Tech Talent
As a leading engineering and manufacturing business, our client offers an exceptional work environment that fosters innovation and technical excellence. Employees benefit from a competitive salary, investment in cutting-edge equipment, and opportunities for professional growth through varied and challenging projects across high-performance industries. The collaborative culture encourages hands-on problem-solving and continuous improvement, making it an ideal place for those passionate about engineering and prototype development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Research & Development Manager (R&D) in Devon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend relevant events, and join online forums. The more people you know in the engineering and manufacturing space, the better your chances of landing that R&D role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your CNC programming, machining projects, and any innovative solutions you've developed. This will give potential employers a tangible sense of what you can bring to their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on technical knowledge and problem-solving scenarios. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled challenges in past projects, especially with composite materials and prototype development.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals who are eager to drive innovation in R&D. Your next big opportunity could be just a click away!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Research & Development Manager (R&D) in Devon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your CNC programming and machining skills, as well as your experience with metallic and composite materials. We want to see how your background aligns with the hands-on role in R&D, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about engineering innovation and how your problem-solving skills can drive technical advancements. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm, so let your personality come through!
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:In your application, be sure to mention any specific tools or techniques you’ve used in prototype development. Whether it’s CNC methods or electrical engineering knowledge, we want to know how you can contribute to our commitment to technical excellence.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at CA Tech Talent
✨Know Your Materials
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of both metallic and composite materials. Be ready to discuss your practical experience with these materials, as well as any specific projects where you've successfully used them. This will show your potential employer that you have the hands-on expertise they’re looking for.
✨Showcase Your CNC Skills
Since strong CNC programming and machining capability is a must, prepare to talk about your experience in detail. Bring examples of parts you've produced to tight tolerances and be ready to explain the processes you used. If possible, share any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Prowess
As a Research and Development Manager, you'll need to drive technical problem-solving. Think of specific instances where you generated innovative solutions to development challenges. Be prepared to discuss your thought process and how you collaborated with engineering and production teams to implement those solutions.
✨Safety and Excellence Matter
Highlight your commitment to safe working practices and technical excellence in workshop operations. Discuss any relevant experience managing workshop environments, ensuring equipment maintenance, and promoting safety standards. This will reassure your potential employer that you prioritise a safe and efficient workspace.
