R&D Development Engineer

Detailed Specification

• Design the concept on CAD - both 2D and 3D
• Develop the performance criteria
• Conduct desktop testing in a virtual environment, e.g., stress analysis
• Create a technical specification
• Create the Specification Summary Report

Prototype Development

• Extract part files from CAD models and raise procurement requests for prototype components
• Fabricate or modify parts as required to support prototyping activities
• Assemble physical prototypes to assess functionality, buildability, and performance
• Coordinate external testing activities where required to support compliance or validation
• Finalise prototype builds and ensure all relevant information is documented
• Prepare Prototype Summary Reports and share outcomes with stakeholders

Testing & Validation

• Develop and execute testing methodologies in line with agreed R&D and compliance requirements
• Prepare test rigs and equipment for internal testing activities
• Conduct internal testing for functionality, structural performance, and weathering integrity
• Collect test data from sensors, measurements, and observations
• Record, analyse, and present test data in clear and meaningful formats
• Draft test reports in line with agreed internal standards

Cross-functional Collaboration

• Work closely with design, marketing, and sales teams to bring products through the R&D process, to market
• Facilitate communication and collaboration between different departments to ensure product success
• Coordinate with quality assurance team to ensure product quality and reliability

There may be additional duties to the above.

KPIs

• Throughput of projects in accordance with the weekly department plan - target zero discrepancy

What We're Looking For

Skills, Experience, Qualifications Required

• Previous experience (6 months or more) in R&D for a construction product, in a large organisation
• Good understanding of the built environment and building envelope and construction principles
• Understands and is qualified in engineering, such as mechanical engineering degree.
• Strong practical problem-solving skills, with the ability to progress defined work packages independently
• Well organised, with the ability to manage tasks across multiple development activities
• Practical, hands-on candidate, with exposure to metalwork and engineering e.g. welding, drilling, folding, test rigs etc.
• Fluent in AutoCAD 2D and 3D design (ideally Inventor)
• Demonstrable experience of ability to provide tangible solutions
• Strong project management skills, able to take projects through all stages of the R&D process
• A full UK work authorisation without the need for current or future sponsorship
• Alignment with, and commitment to the Nicholson company values
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• The candidate should have a range of GCSE / A Level results which show passes in English and Mathematics

Personal Attributes

You are someone aligned to the Nicholson Values of Humility, Agility, Focus, Enthusiasm, and Integrity.

• You are someone who thrives on getting things done properly and seeing projects through to completion. Your natural approach is methodical and systematic - you like to follow processes, take detailed notes, and ensure everything meets required standards. You genuinely care about accuracy and take pride in producing high-quality technical work.
• You're comfortable focusing on your own tasks without needing constant social interaction, preferring steady, consistent work over dramatic ups and downs.
• You have a practical mindset and can spot potential issues early, but don't let this stop you moving forward with projects.
• You appreciate clear guidelines and are naturally accountable for your work. You're more interested in finding the right solution than winning arguments, making sensible, well-considered decisions rather than jumping into things impulsively.

Nicholson Context - www.nicholsonsts.com

Nicholson STS Ltd is an innovative and fast-growing company which designs, manufactures, and supplies specialist roofing systems. We supply Tier 1 construction companies, roofing contractors, and the solar industry with unique products to help solve specific challenges in the industry, such as waterproofing riser penetrations, and fixing to the structure in a 100% waterproof way. We aim to be involved in sales projects at the earliest opportunity, so target specifiers and architects.

The company was started by two brothers, Paul Boyt and Alan Boyt, in 2000. Before this, they were roofing contractors, but quickly realised that there were not the products on the market to solve challenges they were facing, so they began to design and manufacture products. These became the basis of the Nicholson product range, and we’re still innovating today. We are proud of our staff retention, so only serious applications please!