Tecna
Research and Development Specialist
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Job Title: Research and Development Specialist
Location: Farnborough (hybrid options available)
Salary: Up to £50k DOE
Role Overview
We are seeking a hands-on and commercially minded Research & Development Specialist to drive innovation across Tecna. While the role has a strong operational focus, it will work cross-functionally with Operations, Procurement, Design, Production, and the Leadership Team to research, develop, and implement new products, components, materials, and processes.
The successful candidate will identify opportunities to improve quality, sustainability, efficiency, and commercial performance, ensuring innovations deliver measurable value across the business.
Operational Development & Continuous Improvement
- Identify opportunities to improve operational products, components, materials, and production processes to increase efficiency, quality, and profitability.
- Work alongside Operations, Procurement, and Production teams to understand operational challenges and develop practical, cost-effective solutions.
- Evaluate existing products, materials, and manufacturing methods, recommending improvements that enhance performance, durability, and sustainability.
- Lead trials, prototyping, and testing of new products, materials, and operational processes before full implementation.
- Support supplier evaluations and material selection, ensuring quality, availability, cost-effectiveness, and long-term commercial viability.
- Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs), technical specifications, and implementation documentation for new products and processes.
- Monitor the performance of implemented improvements, using data and feedback to drive continuous improvement.
- Support the successful introduction of new products, equipment, and manufacturing techniques into day-to-day operations.
- Support the successful introduction of new systems and integrations.
- Ensure new solutions comply with relevant quality, health & safety, and environmental standards.
- Act as the link between Operations, Procurement, Design, and the wider business to ensure innovation is practical, scalable, and commercially viable.
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Research, Funding & Innovation
- Continuously research emerging materials, products, manufacturing methods, and technologies that could provide a competitive advantage.
- Identify opportunities for R&D tax relief, Innovate UK funding, government grants, and other financial support available for innovation projects.
- Prepare and maintain the technical documentation and supporting evidence required for R&D claims, grant applications, and investment proposals.
- Evaluate the commercial viability and return on investment of new products, materials, and process improvements.
- Build relationships with universities, research institutions, suppliers, and industry partners to identify collaborative innovation opportunities.
- Monitor market trends, competitor developments, and new technologies to ensure Tecna remains at the forefront of innovation.
- Develop business cases and recommendations to support investment in new products, equipment, and manufacturing capabilities.
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Essential Skills & Experience Required
- Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Experience managing development projects from concept to implementation.
- Strong commercial awareness and ability to evaluate business cases.
- Strong project management and organizational skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively across technical and non-technical teams.
- Demonstrated ability to solve complex technical and commercial problems across any industry.
- Understanding of Manufacturing processes.
- Strong report writing and presentation skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data analysis tools.
Benefits
- Enhanced holiday of 25 days + Bank Holidays
- Private Health Care
- Competitive Salary
- Flexible working options
- Paid Volunteering days
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