R&D Technician

R&D Technician – HIRING PEOPLE

Our client is a UK based manufacturer of refrigerated drawers trusted worldwide. The R&D Technician is a key member of the team, providing hands‑on technical support across prototype development, refrigeration testing, and early‑stage product evaluation.

• Prototype Development
  • Build, prepare, and modify prototype assemblies and test rigs according to engineering requirements.
  • Transfer 2D drawing information into accurate physical builds and provide feedback where issues are identified.
  • Liaise with the design team to highlight build observations, improvements, or assembly challenges.
  • Assist with the development of conceptual prototypes through to production‑ready units for food service and retail applications.
• Testing & Evaluation
  • Set up and conduct controlled tests, including climatic chamber testing, refrigeration performance evaluation, and endurance tests.
  • Install and calibrate instrumentation, including sensors, data loggers, and test equipment.
  • Collect, analyse, and record test data accurately; produce structured reports for engineering reviews.
  • Support engineering design evaluations of competitor products and new concepts.
• Technical Support & Problem Solving
  • Provide technical assistance to the engineering team and service engineers where required.
  • Support component sourcing activities in collaboration with the Purchasing team; troubleshoot refrigeration, electrical, and mechanical issues during testing or prototype builds.
  • Maintain clear communication and ensure diligent, timely reporting of findings.
• Supplier & External Collaboration
  • Visit supplier production facilities to assess production feasibility, test capability and component suitability.
  • Collaborate with suppliers and OEMs to resolve technical issues and support prototype component development.
• Project Delivery & Documentation
  • Take ownership of individual tasks within wider project plans, ensuring delivery to deadlines.
  • Follow Stage‑Gate processes and document evidence clearly throughout development cycles.
  • Produce accurate, timely reports on new and existing development projects.
• Key Attributes & Behaviours
  • Strong attention to detail when reviewing test data and prototype builds.
  • Logical, methodical, and structured working approach.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
  • Clear communication and diligent note‑taking during builds and tests.
  • Professionalism, flexibility, and willingness to adapt to testing schedules.
  • Competence in Microsoft Office, especially Excel, and familiarity with engineering documentation.

• F‑Gas qualification (preferred but not essential).
• Practical and theoretical knowledge of refrigeration systems.
• Understanding of electrical and electronic control systems.
• Experience with product assembly and use of hand/power tools for prototyping purposes.
• Ability to read 2D engineering drawings; 3D CAD knowledge beneficial.
• Forklift license (beneficial).

This role offers opportunities for further study, gaining skills and qualifications across data analysis, CAD, technical drawings and broader responsibilities that can be shared in the full role specification and at interview.

• Position: R&D Technician
• Location:
  
  Office Based – Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR33 7NL
• Salary: £28,000 – £35,000 based on experience
• Hours:
  
  Monday to Friday 08:00 – 16:30 with unpaid 30‑minute break for lunch

If you are interested in this role and would like to learn more, please attach your CV to the link provided.

• Full‑time

• Entry level

• Management and Manufacturing