My client - a leading manufacturer of Sheet Moulding Compounds - is recruiting for a Research and Development Manager for a full time role in STREET, Somerset.
The R&D Manager role involves developing new and improved products and technologies in the area of SMC (Sheet Moulding Compounds) and/or pre-preg production of polyester and/or phenolic resin systems.
Leading the R&D department, this role is pivotal in developing products identified by business development colleagues in oil & gas, automotive and aerospace.
This is a hands on role supporting production colleagues and provide technical leadership in the business, maintaining safety and quality standards through designing and implementing safe work/test procedures, screening new raw materials and evaluating new equipment, preparing data sheets and advising on safe methods of handling, storing and disposing of chemicals.
Product & Process Development
· Working closely with both the Managing Director and Director of Operations to develop new products and often developing processing techniques to produce those products.
· Mentoring R&D co-workers, ensuring trained and competent in all areas of R&D.
Quality
· Improving and consistently maintaining product quality in relation to ISO, through designing and implementing work/test procedures, screening new raw materials and evaluating new equipment, preparing data sheets and advising on safe methods of handling, storing and disposing of chemicals.
Health & Safety
· To play a pivotal role in maintaining Health & Safety in relation to all processes and materials with a reporting line to the Director of Operations to maximise and share knowledge.
Role and Responsibilities:
· Contributing to strategic decision-making for R&D investments.
· Attend customer meetings to understand and perform various testing and analysis as required by development activities
· Manage the analysis and screening of all raw materials from suppliers sample materials, preparing both technical and safety datasheets.
· Provide technical support and help answer queries relating to FTI products raised by both internal and external stakeholders.
· Investigate, identify and resolve issues adversely affecting production, particularly those related to formulation concerns and quality.
· Arrange and manage 3rd party testing and accreditations, prepare samples for testing to correct dimensions and configuration and liaise with 3rd parties to arrange the despatch of tested products
· Maintain and develop a quality management system for the R&D department and ensure it conforms to the requirements of ISO 9001:2015
Training & Experience:
· Min. 10 years' experience of R&D, preferably of SMC and/or pre-preg production of polyester and/or phenolic resins
· Science/Chemistry degree level
· Strong knowledge of Quality Standard ISO
· Strong knowledge of Health & Safety guidance and regulations, in particular COSSH.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £45,000.00-£50,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person