At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive innovation in materials and spray technologies while collaborating with clients and stakeholders.
- Company: Leading specialist distributor focused on sustainable infrastructure solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus potential, and opportunities for travel across the UK and Europe.
- Other info: Join a growing team with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable projects and develop your skills in a hands-on role.
- Qualifications: Experience with paint systems and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 € per year.
Location: Plymouth (with UK & European travel)
Hours: 08:00am-5:00pm (Monday to Friday) but the role requires flexibility to meet business needs
Salary: £45,000 - £50,000 (DOE) + bonus (up to 15%)
Holidays: 22 days + bank holidays (increasing on length of service)
Are you an engineer who loves getting hands-on with materials, machines and real-world applications? Do you thrive in fast-paced environments where innovation, testing and customer impact sit at the heart of what you do?
If this sounds like you, a leading specialist distributor and innovation partner within the highways and infrastructure sector is looking for an R&D Engineer to join its growing product development team.
About the Company: This is a respected, high-growth business operating across the UK, Ireland and Europe, known for challenging traditional, carbon‑intensive methods with safer, more sustainable alternatives. Innovation is central to everything they do, from collaborating with manufacturers and universities to supporting contractors directly on site. Their in‑house R&D engineering team plays a pivotal role in shaping next‑generation materials, machines and application methods.
What’s the role about? This is a genuinely hands-on R&D and product development role, not an administrative desk job. You’ll work across multiple live and in‑development projects, owning testing, prototyping and technical support while collaborating with clients, suppliers and internal stakeholders.
You can expect to be:
- Driving innovation across materials, spray technologies and specialist equipment
- Supporting clients through training, demonstrations and on-site testing
- Translating real-world feedback into product improvements and new solutions
- Working flexibly, including travel across the UK and Europe
Key Responsibilities:
- Run product demonstrations and technical presentations linked to product development
- Train clients on correct application of materials and specialist spray machinery
- Attend and support on-site testing and trials
- Carry out practical testing and prototyping of new products
- Report on test results and create technical documentation
- Conduct market research and competitive product analysis
- Source potential product solutions and development partners
- Collaborate with laboratories and universities on development projects
Requirements: You’ll be someone who brings:
- Proven experience working with paint systems, spray technologies or spraying equipment
- A relevant degree (or postgraduate qualification) in industrial paints, chemicals or similar is advantageous
- Experience in industrial or contracting environments with stakeholder-facing projects (automotive, chemicals, paints, aerospace, fire safety related products)
- Strong communication and presentation skills
- A driven, energetic and proactive approach
- The ability to travel freely across the UK and Europe (full UK right to work required)
- European language skills (highly advantageous, but not essential)
Benefits: What’s in it for you?
- Impact: Be at the forefront of developing safer, more sustainable infrastructure solutions
- Variety: A mix of lab work, field testing, client engagement and European collaboration
- Growth: Join a growing R&D function with scope to develop leadership and project ownership
- Reward: £45,000- £50,000 base salary plus bonus
- Exposure: Work closely with manufacturers, universities and industry specialists
R&D Engineer (industrial paints & chemicals) in Portsmouth employer: Universal Business Team
Join a dynamic and innovative team as an R&D Engineer in Plymouth, where your hands-on expertise will directly contribute to developing sustainable infrastructure solutions. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have the opportunity to engage in diverse projects, collaborate with industry leaders, and enjoy a supportive work culture that values innovation and flexibility. Benefit from a competitive salary, bonus potential, and a commitment to your professional development in a high-growth environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land R&D Engineer (industrial paints & chemicals) in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, workshops, and meetups related to R&D in paints and chemicals. It's all about making connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your hands-on skills! When you get the chance, demonstrate your practical experience with materials and spray technologies during interviews or networking chats. Let them see your passion for innovation!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; engage! When you submit your application through our website, follow up with a friendly email expressing your enthusiasm for the role. It shows initiative and keeps you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for technical questions! Brush up on your knowledge of paint systems and spray technologies. Being able to discuss real-world applications and improvements will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace R&D Engineer (industrial paints & chemicals) in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Innovation:When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for R&D and innovation. Share specific examples of how you've contributed to projects that involved hands-on testing or development, especially in materials or spray technologies.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure your CV and cover letter are tailored to the role. Highlight your experience with paint systems and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission of developing sustainable solutions.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read through your experiences and skills. Remember, we appreciate straightforward communication!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team directly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Universal Business Team
✨Know Your Materials
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of industrial paints and spray technologies. Be ready to discuss specific materials you've worked with and how they relate to the role. This will show your passion and expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Hands-On Experience
Since this role is all about practical application, prepare examples of past projects where you’ve been hands-on. Talk about your involvement in testing, prototyping, and any innovative solutions you’ve developed. Real-world examples will make you stand out.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to product development and testing. Brush up on your problem-solving skills and be ready to explain your thought process. This will demonstrate your analytical abilities and how you approach challenges.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don’t just answer questions; engage with your interviewers. Ask them about their current projects or challenges they face in R&D. This shows your interest in the company and helps you understand their needs better.
