R&D Technician

• Annual Salary: Up to £40,000 (commensurate with experience and capability)
• Location: Preston
• Job Type: Full-time - Days

Join a leading manufacturer in the vehicle, fire safety, and environmental protection sectors with a strong global presence. We are seeking an R&D Technician to join our dynamic team at our state-of-the-art facilities in Preston, Lancashire. This role is crucial for driving the end-to-end delivery of new product concepts from prototype to tooling, ensuring efficient and reliable transitions.

Day-to-day of the role:

• Participate in Design Reviews to contribute to the development of new products.
• Lead the manufacture and development of tools, modifying and snagging new moulds and formers.
• Conduct Design for Manufacturability (DfM) Reviews to simplify production handover.
• Perform R&D Moulding Trials to verify operational parameters and ensure product integrity.
• Engage in product verification and testing, supporting pilot production runs.
• Coordinate with other departments to ensure seamless project execution.
• Provide advanced maintenance, training, and knowledge transfer to enhance team capabilities.
• Uphold health, safety, and compliance standards throughout all activities.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient in interpreting detailed drawings and 3D visualisation.
• Advanced skills in sheet metal fabrication and proficient in MIG and TIG welding.
• Experience with diverse materials including sheet metal, plastics, wood, and composites.
• Familiarity with metrology equipment such as micrometers and calipers.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate across functions.
• Effective time management skills and ability to handle multiple projects.
• Minimum of ten years’ hands-on experience in tool manufacture and fabrication.
• NVQ Diploma in Fabrication and Welding Engineering or similar qualification.
• Full UK Driving Licence.

Benefits:

• Competitive pension scheme.
• 25 days holiday plus 8 public holidays, with an additional leave purchase scheme.
• Free tea and coffee, on-site parking.
• Comprehensive healthcare scheme.
• Death in service benefit.