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- Tasks: Lead R&D projects for innovative drywall products, ensuring top-notch testing and development.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking company dedicated to sustainable building solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible work hours, remote options, and competitive salary with travel opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of building materials with real-world impact.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering or science; familiarity with plasterboard systems and AutoCAD is a plus.
- Other info: Occasional travel across Europe required; strong focus on safety and quality.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Position: R&D Project Leader – Product Testing & Development
Location: Kent (with occasional travel)
Department: Research & Development
Are you ready to lead the charge in creating smarter, more sustainable building solutions? We're on the lookout for a dynamic R&D Project Leader to join our innovative team!
Your Role: As our R&D Project Leader, you'll be at the forefront of testing and developing cutting-edge drywall products and systems. Collaborate with Technical Services, Marketing, and third-party testing partners to ensure our products not only meet but exceed performance expectations.
What You'll Do:
- Lead and Support Testing: Drive mechanical, fire, acoustic, and structural testing for both new and existing products.
- Design and Setup Tests: Work with the R&D Technician to design and execute tests, meticulously recording performance data.
- Insightful Reporting: Craft clear, insightful reports to guide product development decisions.
- Investigate and Resolve: Dive into product performance issues or customer complaints to find effective solutions.
- Maintain Safety and Organization: Keep our lab space safe and organized, adhering to Health & Safety procedures.
- Collaborate Across Teams: Work with cross-functional teams to optimize product performance and material usage.
- Stay Ahead of Trends: Keep up with industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies.
What We're Looking For:
- Educational Background: Degree (or equivalent) in engineering, science, or a related discipline.
- Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with plasterboard systems and plaster formulations is a plus.
- AutoCAD Skills: Experience with AutoCAD and interpreting technical drawings.
- Testing Expertise: Understanding of fire and acoustic testing is highly desirable.
- Attention to Detail: A methodical, scientific approach with strong attention to detail.
- Team Player: Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.
- Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Tech Savvy: Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Safety Focus: A strong commitment to safety and quality.
What's in It for You:
- Competitive Salary: £45,000 + 10% PRB (flexible for the right candidate)
- Flexible Work Hours: 37.5 hours per week, with the option to work from home 1-2 days per week.
- Travel Opportunities: Required travel throughout Europe.
- Driver’s License: A UK driver’s license is needed.
- Specialized Experience: Acoustic and fire testing experience/understanding.
Research and Development Project Manager employer: Harbourne Associates
Contact Detail:
Harbourne Associates Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research and Development Project Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in building materials and sustainable solutions. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your passion for the industry.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the R&D field, especially those who have experience with drywall products. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to make connections that could lead to valuable insights or referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your AutoCAD skills and be prepared to discuss how you've used it in past projects. Being able to showcase your technical abilities can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with cross-functional teams in previous roles. Highlighting your teamwork skills will show that you're a great fit for our collaborative environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Research and Development Project Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in R&D, particularly in product testing and development. Emphasise any familiarity with plasterboard systems and your technical skills, such as AutoCAD.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for sustainable building solutions. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead testing and collaborate across teams.
Highlight Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for this role, provide examples of how you've effectively communicated complex information in previous positions, whether through reports or team collaborations.
Showcase Attention to Detail: In your application, include instances where your methodical approach led to successful outcomes in testing or product development. This will demonstrate your fit for the role's requirements.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harbourne Associates
✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss your understanding of plasterboard systems and plaster formulations. Highlight any relevant experience you have with mechanical, fire, acoustic, and structural testing, as this will demonstrate your capability to lead in product testing.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect questions about how you've investigated and resolved product performance issues in the past. Use specific examples to illustrate your methodical approach and attention to detail when tackling challenges.
✨Communicate Clearly and Effectively
Since excellent communication skills are essential for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Be ready to explain complex technical concepts in a way that is easy to understand, as you'll need to craft insightful reports for various stakeholders.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Highlight your experience working in cross-functional teams. Share examples of how you've collaborated with different departments, such as Technical Services and Marketing, to optimise product performance and material usage.
