R&D / Innovation Engineer Plastic Extrusion Shape the Future of Extrusion Innovation An industry-leading manufacturer is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking R&D / Innovation Engineer to spearhead the development and optimization of small bore plastic tube extrusion processes. This is a unique opportunity to drive innovation in a dynamic R&D environment, contributing to the design and launch of high-performance tubing solutions for medical, pharmaceutical, industrial, and food applications. Your Role: As a key member of the R&D team, you'll lead projects from concept to commercialization, combining hands-on experimentation with strategic process improvements. Your work will directly impact product performance, manufacturability, and compliance across a wide array of applications. Key Responsibilities: Product Development Design and prototype innovative tubing products using advanced extrusion technologies. Translate customer needs into technical specifications and scalable solutions. Select suitable materials (PVC, TPU, PE, PA, etc.) based on application requirements. Process Innovation & Optimization Lead extrusion trials and process development (screw design, die geometry, thermal profiling, etc.). Drive efficiency improvements to reduce scrap and improve product quality. Collaborate with production teams to scale lab processes for manufacturing. Technical Documentation & Compliance Develop and maintain detailed process documentation, material specs, and reports. Ensure product and process compliance with standards such as ISO, FDA, REACH, and RoHS. Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with sales, operations, and quality teams to support new product introductions. Provide technical expertise during customer engagements and project reviews. Innovation & Technology Scouting Stay current on emerging materials, manufacturing methods, and equipment technologies. Identify and propose new approaches to maintain a competitive edge. What Were Looking For: Qualifications: Bachelor's or Masters degree in Polymer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related discipline. Minimum 3 years of hands-on experience in plastic extrusion, ideally with small bore tubing. Technical Expertise: In-depth knowledge of extrusion processes and polymer behaviour. Experience in single- and multi-layer extrusion, tooling design, CAD, and process control (DOE/SPC). Understanding of regulatory and quality systems relevant to tubing products. Key Competencies: Analytical thinker with a hands-on, problem-solving approach. Strong project management and multitasking capabilities. Clear communicator with excellent documentation and collaboration skills. Desirable Skills: Experience in cleanroom or medical device manufacturing environments. Knowledge of advanced or specialty polymers (fluoropolymers, silicone blends, bioresorbables). Familiarity with extrusion simulation tools (e.g., POLYFLOW, ANSYS). Why Join Us? This role offers the chance to shape high-impact products in a collaborative and innovation-focused environment. You'll work on cutting-edge materials and technologies, supported by a team that values initiative, precision, and continuous improvement. Call Conor. Skills: Polymers Extrusion Chemical Engineering CAD Innovation Benefits: Please contact Conor on