Research And Development Manager

Job Title: R&D Manager – Offsite Location: Glenrothes, Scotland (hybrid) Salary: £60K+ Benefits Contract Type: Full-time, PermanentAbout the Role:We are working with a leading construction solutions provider to help them find an experienced R&D Manager to join their high-performing Offsite division in Glenrothes. This is a key strategic role focused on driving product innovation, performance, and market growth within the Cullen Connectors product segment.You’ll lead the on-site R&D test rig and team, managing the full lifecycle of product development — from ideation to technical validation and go-to-market delivery. This role blends hands-on engineering, project ownership, and cross-functional leadership, making it ideal for someone with a background in civil/structural engineering and experience in manufacturing or construction.You'll also play a vital role in mentoring a developing apprentice, supporting the future of innovation within the team.Key Responsibilities:Lead the R&D function across all aspects of product development, innovation, testing, and validation.Own and manage the on-site test rig, ensuring accurate testing and continuous improvement.Deliver high-impact innovation through the Customer Back Innovation (CBI) process, working closely with Product and Marketing teams.Drive Product Line Simplification (PLS) to enhance efficiency and reduce complexity.Identify new technologies, trends, and opportunities for growth in offsite construction.Oversee prototyping, compliance testing, and performance validation for new and existing products.Collaborate with operations and production teams to ensure design-for-manufacture principles are applied.Work with Marketing and Commercial teams to support product launches and technical sales enablement.Manage external partnerships including certification bodies, third-party testers, and engineering consultants.Stay informed on evolving industry standards, regulations, and competitor activity to maintain technical leadership.Maintain thorough documentation to ensure traceability and strong project governance.Mentor and support the R&D apprentice with both technical and academic guidance.Key Skills and Experience:Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering (essential); Master’s or Chartered status desirable.5+ years’ experience in product development or technical leadership within manufacturing or construction.Strong knowledge of structural design, materials (particularly timber and steel), and modern construction methods.Experience with industry codes and testing standards such as Eurocodes, British Standards, CE/UKCA marking.Proficiency in AutoCAD, Inventor, and other engineering tools.Proven ability to take products from concept through to production with full technical ownership.Confident leader with excellent problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.Passionate about safety, innovation, and continuous improvement.What Our Client Offers:The chance to be a key driver in an innovative, market-leading product divisionA culture that promotes collaboration, autonomy, and forward-thinking engineeringMentorship opportunities and the chance to develop junior team membersCompetitive salary and benefits package tailored to experienceA stable and growing business that is outperforming market trendsWorking Hours: Monday to Friday – Full-time, on-site in GlenrothesAbout Us: We’re a specialist recruitment agency working with forward-thinking technical and engineering firms across the UK. We partner with companies that offer genuine opportunities to grow, innovate, and lead within their sectors.

Created: 2025-08-13