R&D Manager - Electronic Lighting Controls
Location: Hertford, Hertfordshire
Position Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Industry: Electronics / Lighting Controls / IoT
About the Role
Are you an experienced R&D leader with a passion for driving innovation in electronic products?
We are seeking a Research & Development Manager to lead a multidisciplinary engineering team (electronics, software, hardware, mechanical) in designing next-generation electronic lighting control systems. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will own the end-to-end product development lifecycle from early concept and feasibility through to compliance, testing, and volume manufacturing.
This role balances strategic oversight with hands-on technical guidance, making it an ideal opportunity for a proactive leader thriving in an agile, SME environment.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Strategy: Define and execute the R&D roadmap aligned with business goals. Lead, mentor, and resource an internal engineering team while managing specialist sub-contractors when required.
Product Development & Technical Oversight: Oversee design and development of hardware, embedded firmware, and wireless/wired communication protocols. Enforce DfM, DfT, and DfR principles across all projects.
Testing & Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all products meet EMC, electrical safety, cyber resilience, and RoHS standards, collaborating directly with external test houses and regulatory bodies.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Sales, Operations, and Procurement to drive smooth New Product Introduction (NPI) processes and translate market needs into product specifications.
Project & Process Management: Manage multiple simultaneous projects, ensuring strict adherence to timelines, budgets, quality standards, and structured development methodologies.
R&D Tax Support: Liaise with Finance to support technical submissions for R&D tax credits. What We Are Looking For
Essential Experience & Skills:
Proven Leadership: At least 5 years of R&D management/leadership experience within electronic product development.
Electronics & Firmware Knowledge: Strong background in analogue/digital electronics, embedded microcontrollers, and communication protocols (e.g., DALI, Bluetooth, Zigbee, DMX, Ethernet).
Full Lifecycle Delivery: Demonstrated track record taking complex electronic products from concept through to full production.
Compliance & T...
R&D Manager in Watford employer: ProTech Recruitment Ltd
Join a forward-thinking electronics design and manufacturing company in Luton, where innovation meets opportunity. As a Senior Electronics Design Engineer, you'll enjoy a competitive salary, 25 days of holiday plus bank holidays, and the flexibility of hybrid working. With a strong focus on employee growth and a collaborative work culture, this role offers you the chance to take ownership of exciting projects while benefiting from comprehensive healthcare and a supportive environment.
