Research and Development Specialist

Research and Development Specialist at Tecna

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.
• 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.

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 organisational 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.
• Enhanced holiday of 25 days + Bank Holidays