Research Engineer - Horizon Scanning in Thatcham

Are you passionate about the future of automotive technology? Do you thrive on uncovering insights that shape industry standards? Join us as a Research Engineer and play a pivotal role in driving innovation across safety, security, damageability and repairability. As part of our Research team, you’ll investigate and evaluate the latest vehicle technology developments, bringing fresh intelligence into our research process. Your work will directly support our mission to deliver Automotive Risk Intelligence that influences the future of mobility. You’ll have the opportunity to get hands‑on with some of the most exciting new vehicle technologies as they enter the UK market.

Responsibilities:

• Identify and investigate emerging automotive technologies and assess their impact on insurance, safety, and repairability.
• Work with Thatcham Research’s subject matter experts to map out trends of new technology.
• Deliver clear, insightful research reports and presentations.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders, including vehicle manufacturers and technology suppliers.
• Continuously improve research tools and processes to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.

Skills & experience that will set you up for success in this role:

• Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Systems) or Science, or equivalent experience.
• Inquisitive and confident approaching new contacts and organisations to investigate and collect information proactively.
• Critical thinking, with the ability to understand, analyse and breakdown complex technical information.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of modern vehicle technologies.
• Experience in project management and report authoring.

Perks & Benefits:

• Salary – £45,000 dependent on skills & experience.
• 10% non-contributory pension.
• 29 days holiday (inclusive of Christmas shutdown) + public holidays.
• Group Life Assurance (equal to 4 x basic salary).
• Group Income Protection (after 6 months’ service).
• Salary Sacrifice schemes (cycle to work, home & tech scheme).
• Enhanced and competitive parental leave for all parents, regardless of gender or family structure.
• Moneyhealth’s Financial Coaching & Wellbeing Platform.
• Health Cash Plan (cash back on eligible medical treatments).
• Benenden Health Care (opt-in benefit).
• Reward & Recognition Programme.
• Discounted gym membership.
• Sports & Social club.
• Payroll charitable giving.
• Subsidised on-site restaurant.
• Free on-site parking.

When we work:

Our standard working hours are 8:30 – 16:30 Monday – Thursday, early finish on Friday – 8:30 – 15:45 (Talk to us about flexible working if this doesn’t quite suit you – we take work‑life balance seriously!)

How we work:

We understand the benefits of remote and in‑person collaboration and therefore have a hybrid working model – you’ll be expected to work from our office in Thatcham at least two days per week.

What we do:

At the cutting edge of automotive research in the UK, Thatcham Research has a unique role in shaping the design of new vehicles and influencing ever higher standards of safety, security and repair. With an on‑site Crash Laboratory, Repair Technology Centre and Training Academy, our research expertise is driving some of the very latest automotive developments in technology, materials and standards in this fast‑moving and highly technical industry.

Our Values:

As an organisation that believes a strong set of Values are key to our organisational success and a sense of belonging for all colleagues, we ask that you understand, represent and apply our Values of Fearless, Inquisitive, Resourceful, Supportive and Trusted and demonstrate these Values throughout the recruitment process.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging:

We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace which values diversity and embraces each individual’s authentic self. We are proud to champion a culture where colleagues freely share their diverse perspectives, recognising that these contribute to our innovative spirit. Our journey of growth and understanding is continuous as we actively invest in diversity training, workshops, and partnerships to ensure positive change.

Recruitment process:

We’re proud to manage our recruitment in-house and believe this direct approach enables us to give you the best possible Employee Experience we can – which starts right here, your application! We’re continuously striving to improve the candidate journey, and transparency (or communication) is a key area of focus – yes, even with salary & benefits.

All applicants must have Right to Work in the UK.