Research & Development Technician in Neath

Location: Unit 3A, Kenfig Industrial Estate

Company: Wernick Buildings, part of The Wernick Group

Wernick Buildings, a division of The Wernick Group, is the UK's largest and longest‐standing national provider of permanent and temporary modular buildings and site accommodation. Established in 1934, The Wernick Group remains a family‐run and owned company. Over the last five years, the company has more than doubled its profits, attributing its success to the quality and dedication of its workforce.

Position Summary

The R&D Technician – Architectural Lead is responsible for assisting the product research, product development and innovation throughout the business. You will be responsible for creating and developing new building systems to meet both consumer needs and changes in building regulations. As R&D Technician – Architectural Lead you will be responsible for contributing to the planning, execution and monitoring of testing products, and redefining any existing products or building systems to meet the industry needs. You will work closely with the R&D Manager to ensure the development and delivery of innovative, high‐quality, and cost‐effective solutions, as well as overseeing quality control processes and regulatory compliance. You will also be responsible for assisting with the creation of the technical library to accomplish a more streamlined design system throughout the Technical department.

Key Responsibilities

• R&D Design & Development: Develop designs for new building systems / product and refine and review existing, ensuring they comply with building regulations, meet required certifications for building regulation approval, align with the organisation's design standards and sustain value engineering.
• Software and Machinery Development: Development and implementation of new and existing software packages to streamline processes and save time and avoid error where possible. This includes training Technical team members on new software (Strucsoft Framing, Revit etc), commissioning and implementation of new machinery (Howick machine etc), fire testing and certification of wall constructions.
• Research & Testing: To test and implement new materials, technologies, procedures and develop, construct, test and evaluate prototypes. Writing technical U-value report based on test findings.
• Revit Design: To assist with the creation and maintenance of Revit family library and standard detail catalogue incorporating all BIM requirements, industry standards and best practices.
• R&D Review: Review, evaluate and provide feedback on the work of colleagues. This includes reviewing their designs, documents, and other deliverables to ensure quality, accuracy and adherence to company's standards, clients brief and regulatory requirements.
• R&D Co‐ordination: Collaborate with all technical department to ensure that the team is fully aligned with decision‐making.
• R&D Documentation: Assist in the creation of design guides and SOP's for all the technical department for software use, drawing application and successful build.
• Building Regulations: Ensure that design proposals comply with building regulations and other industry standards. Develop building control documentation, submit and coordinate applications and facilitate approvals with building control authorities.
• Building Information Modelling (BIM): Participate in projects requiring the use of BIM software and processes. Facilitate collaboration and coordination between design disciplines using BIM technologies, improving project efficiency and reducing errors.
• BREEAM Implementation: Ensure adherence to BREEAM standards throughout the design process, promoting sustainable design practices, and maximising environmental performance in projects.
• Quality Assurance: Adhere to established quality procedures and standards to ensure the delivery of high‐quality architectural designs. Conduct regular reviews to ensure compliance with industry best practices.
• Personal Development: Establish and follow personal development plan to ensure alignment with industry standards and company goals. Stay up to date with requirements and changing industry standards through Continuous Professional Development (CPD).

Hours of Working: Work outside normal working hours of business if required to meet agreed deadlines.

Essential Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture, Engineering, or related field;
• Strong knowledge of architectural design principles, RIBA Plan of Work, building regulations, and construction practices;
• Proficiency in BIM software, processes and related technologies;
• Excellent 3D and 2D technical drawing skills;
• Familiarity with BREEAM standards, processes and sustainability best practices;
• Excellent leadership and team management skills;
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills;
• Excellent presenting skills;
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines;
• Detail‐oriented with a focus on quality and accuracy;
• Commercial awareness and understanding of project budgets and financial implications;
• Lead architectural design solutions and development of product lines and systems.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and bonus scheme
• Generous holiday allowance (rising with service)
• Option to buy extra holidays
• Option to sell or carry over up to 5 days holiday
• Christmas Shutdown
• Early finish Friday
• Cycle to work scheme
• Group pension
• Annual salary review – takes place each January
• Life assurance – 2× annual salary
• Personal accident insurance
• Free onsite parking
• Employee assistance programme
• Training and progression opportunities
• Family run and well established, secure company (trading over 90 years)
• Open door policy
• Employee referral scheme
• Benefits scheme (discounted retailers scheme)
• Corporate eye‐care scheme through Specsavers

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We thank you in advance for your interest in this role and our company. If you require any reasonable adjustments for your interview, please advise our recruitment team as soon as possible.

Closing Date: Monday 20th April 2026

Contract Type: fulltime

Salary: Based on experience