At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative R&D projects in optics and AR/VR, ensuring timely delivery and client satisfaction.
- Company: Join a leading optical technology company known for its innovation and collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid work options, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career progression in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on cutting-edge technologies while working with top global tech companies.
- Qualifications: Proven project management experience in technical fields; familiarity with Agile and Waterfall methodologies.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Turning pioneering science into real-world solutions takes more than great ideas—it takes outstanding project management.
We are seeking an experienced Technical Project Manager to join a highly regarded optical technology company at the forefront of ophthalmics, AR/VR, and advanced optical systems. This is a rare opportunity to work on some of the most technically ambitious development programmes in the industry—managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects that push the boundaries of what’s possible.
The Role
As a Technical Project Manager, you’ll take ownership of end-to-end project delivery—from scope definition through to launch—ensuring that milestones are met, risks are managed, and projects are delivered on time and within budget. You’ll work with teams spanning engineering, physics, and materials science, bringing together world-class expertise to deliver cutting-edge R&D and NPI programmes.
Projects will include both client-led collaborations with global industry leaders and internally funded innovation programmes. You’ll play a key role in client engagement, ensuring technical excellence is matched by clear communication and strong relationships.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan, lead, and oversee the successful delivery of R&D and NPI projects across optics, ophthalmics, and AR/VR technologies.
- Apply established project management methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, or hybrid approaches) to ensure robust planning, resourcing, and execution.
- Coordinate and motivate multidisciplinary teams of scientists, engineers, and technical specialists.
- Monitor progress, manage budgets, and proactively identify and mitigate risks.
- Engage directly with clients—building strong partnerships and ensuring alignment on objectives, deliverables, and timelines.
- Maintain high-quality project documentation and reporting.
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of project management practices across the business.
About You
We’re looking for a proven Project Manager with a technical background and the confidence to lead complex programmes. You’ll combine structured project management expertise with the curiosity and creativity needed to thrive in an innovation-driven environment.
- Strong academic background in engineering, physics, or a related physical science.
- Demonstrable track record of managing complex R&D and NPI projects.
- Experience working within or alongside multidisciplinary technical teams (engineering, research, manufacturing).
- Proficiency with project management frameworks (Agile, Waterfall) and tools (e.g., MS Project, Jira, Confluence).
- Excellent client-facing and stakeholder management skills.
- Familiarity with regulated environments (e.g., ISO 13485, medical device directives) is highly desirable, though not essential.
- Project management certification (PMP, PRINCE2, Agile/Scrum) would be advantageous.
Why Join?
This is a career-defining opportunity to join a company recognised for its innovation, technical excellence, and collaborative culture. You’ll work on projects with leading global tech companies and help shape next-generation optical and AR/VR technologies.
Alongside competitive benefits, the role offers genuine scope for personal growth and career development—within a company that values creativity, innovation, and professional progression.
Technical Project Manager – R&D & NPI Projects
Location: Oxfordshire (Hybrid)
Type: Full-Time | Permanent
Salary: Competitive + Benefits
Project Manager - R&D/NPI in Bedford employer: scientis search
Join a pioneering optical technology company in Oxfordshire, where innovation meets collaboration. As a Technical Project Manager, you'll be part of a dynamic team driving cutting-edge R&D and NPI projects, with ample opportunities for personal growth and career advancement. Enjoy a supportive work culture that values creativity and technical excellence, alongside competitive benefits that make this an exceptional place to build your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager - R&D/NPI in Bedford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their technologies and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. This shows you're genuinely interested and can hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be clear about your project management experience and how you've successfully led complex projects in the past. Tailor your examples to highlight your skills in managing multidisciplinary teams and client engagement.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager - R&D/NPI in Bedford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Project Manager role. Highlight your project management expertise, especially in R&D and NPI projects, and don’t forget to mention any relevant methodologies you’ve used.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about project management in the optical technology field. Share specific examples of how you've successfully led complex projects and engaged with clients.
Showcase Your Technical Background:Since we’re looking for someone with a strong technical background, make sure to emphasise your academic qualifications and any hands-on experience in engineering, physics, or related fields. This will help us see how you fit into our multidisciplinary teams.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at scientis search
✨Know Your Project Management Methodologies
Make sure you brush up on Agile, Waterfall, and any hybrid approaches you've used. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these methodologies in past projects, especially in R&D or NPI contexts. This shows you’re not just familiar with the terms but can actually implement them effectively.
✨Showcase Your Technical Background
Since this role requires a strong technical foundation, be prepared to talk about your academic background in engineering, physics, or related fields. Highlight specific projects where your technical skills made a difference, especially those involving multidisciplinary teams.
✨Demonstrate Client Engagement Skills
This position involves direct client interaction, so think of examples where you've successfully built relationships with clients or stakeholders. Discuss how you ensured alignment on objectives and deliverables, as well as how you managed expectations throughout the project lifecycle.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical project scenarios. Practice articulating how you would handle risks, manage budgets, and motivate teams under pressure. This will help you demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to think on your feet.
