Introduction

Our client has a vacancy available for a Research & Development Lead in Durban South.

Duties (included but not limited to):

• The research and development lead will have to use creative abilities and research methods to improve existing products based on industry trends and develop new products to meet the needs of the company’s target market.
• The employee will be expected to report on any technical product issues that are discovered during evaluation and manage product testing and trials, assessing the materials used, the efficiency of the process, and the effectiveness of the final product.
• Lead key projects with R&D to support business goals.
• Develop research programs incorporating current developments to improve existing products and study the potential of new products.
• Understand customer expectations on to-be manufactured products.
• Determine and execute improved technologies used by suppliers, competitors, and customers.
• Establish project goals and priorities by collaborating with Marketing, Sales and Operations.
• Transfer new technologies, products, and manufacturing processes into and out of the company.
• Research, design and evaluate products, assemblies, processes, and equipment.
• Suggest training tools to enhance employee performance, customer and skill development of both internal and external sources
• Document all phases of research and development.
• Manage customer relationships and perform RFP reviews, customer visits, and product testing.
• Establish and maintain testing procedures for assessing raw materials, in-process and finished products.
• Oversee complex research projects, analyse results and provide recommendations based on findings.
• Assess the scope of research projects and ensure they are on time and within budget.
• Be present at industry conferences on research topics of interest.