R&D Manager & Senior Product Development Engineer (m/f)

JORI; Wervik; On-site; EUR 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

JORI in Wervik seeks an R&D Manager & Senior Product Development Engineer to oversee the development of new models from concept to industrialization. In this pivotal role, you will lead an R&D team, ensuring project deadlines are met and collaborating with various departments. Ideal candidates will hold a Master's degree, bring at least 8 years of experience, and communicate fluently in Dutch, French, and English. Knowledge of CAD systems, particularly Creo Parametric, is desirable.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Product Development, Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• At least 8 years of relevant experience in product development and team leadership.
• Fluent in Dutch, French, and English.

Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and develop the R&D team of engineers, prototype specialists, and technical designers.
• Define and execute R&D planning and priorities.
• Coordinate and monitor the full R&D development process using a stage-gate methodology.
• Develop and validate new products through CAD design and prototyping.

Skills

Leadership and coaching

2D/3D CAD expertise

Project management

Strong communication

Analytical skills

Education

Master's degree in Product Development or Engineering

Tools

Creo Parametric

Windchill

Job description

As R&D Manager & Senior Product Development Engineer, you will lead the entire development process for new models, from concept to industrialisation. You will translate design proposals into technically feasible products while ensuring quality, timing, cost efficiency, and overall feasibility.

In this central role within the R&D team, you will combine in-depth technical expertise with strong coaching and leadership skills. You will act as a bridge between Marketing, Purchasing, Production, and Sales, report directly to the COO, and contribute to strategic decision-making at executive level.

The challenge

• Lead, coach, and develop the R&D team (engineers, prototype specialists, and technical designers).
• Define and execute the R&D planning and priorities to ensure project deadlines are met.
• Contribute to the development of both short- and long-term objectives for the department.
• Optimise processes, project methodologies, and collaboration within the team.
• Coordinate and monitor the full R&D development process using a stage-gate methodology.
• Develop and validate new products through 2D/3D CAD design, prototyping, and testing.
• Prepare new models for production and ensure a smooth and successful industrialisation process.

Who you are

• Master's degree in Product Development, Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• At least 8 years of relevant experience in product development and team leadership.
• Strong knowledge of 2D/3D CAD and BOM (Bill of Materials) systems.
• Experience with Creo Parametric and Windchill is an advantage.
• A coaching-oriented people manager with excellent communication skills.
• Analytical, highly organised, and decisive.
• Strong affinity with design, aesthetics, and seating comfort.
• Fluent in Dutch, French, and English.
• You live within approximately 40 km of Wervik.