Project Manager - R&D/NPI

ZipRecruiter; West Oxfordshire; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading optical technology company seeks an experienced Technical Project Manager to lead complex R&D and NPI projects in Oxfordshire. You will coordinate multidisciplinary teams, manage budgets, and ensure project delivery. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in engineering or physics, proficiency in project management tools, and excellent client management skills. This role offers competitive benefits and opportunities for personal growth in a collaborative environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Career development opportunities

Collaborative culture

Qualifications

• Proven Project Manager with a technical background.
• Demonstrable track record of managing complex R&D and NPI projects.
• Experience working within or alongside multidisciplinary technical teams.
• Familiarity with regulated environments is desirable.
• Project management certification (PMP, PRINCE2, Agile/Scrum) would be advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Plan, lead, and oversee successful delivery of R&D and NPI projects.
• Apply established project management methodologies.
• Coordinate and motivate multidisciplinary teams.
• Monitor progress, manage budgets, and identify risks.
• Engage directly with clients.

Skills

Structured project management expertise

Strong client-facing skills

Team coordination and motivation

Risk management

Education

Strong academic background in engineering, physics, or related physical science

Tools

MS Project

Jira

Confluence

Job description

Job Description

Turning pioneering science into real-world solutions takes more than great ideas—it takes outstanding project management.

We are seeking an experienced Technical Project Manager to join a highly regarded optical technology company at the forefront of ophthalmics, AR/VR, and advanced optical systems. This is a rare opportunity to work on some of the most technically ambitious development programmes in the industry—managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects that push the boundaries of what’s possible.

The Role

As a Technical Project Manager, you’ll take ownership of end-to-end project delivery—from scope definition through to launch—ensuring that milestones are met, risks are managed, and projects are delivered on time and within budget. You’ll work with teams spanning engineering, physics, and materials science, bringing together world-class expertise to deliver cutting-edge R&D and NPI programmes.

Projects will include both client-led collaborations with global industry leaders and internally funded innovation programmes. You’ll play a key role in client engagement, ensuring technical excellence is matched by clear communication and strong relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, lead, and oversee the successful delivery of R&D and NPI projects across optics, ophthalmics, and AR/VR technologies.
• Apply established project management methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, or hybrid approaches) to ensure robust planning, resourcing, and execution.
• Coordinate and motivate multidisciplinary teams of scientists, engineers, and technical specialists.
• Monitor progress, manage budgets, and proactively identify and mitigate risks.
• Engage directly with clients—building strong partnerships and ensuring alignment on objectives, deliverables, and timelines.
• Maintain high-quality project documentation and reporting.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of project management practices across the business.

About You

We’re looking for a proven Project Manager with a technical background and the confidence to lead complex programmes. You’ll combine structured project management expertise with the curiosity and creativity needed to thrive in an innovation-driven environment.

• Strong academic background in engineering, physics, or a related physical science.
• Demonstrable track record of managing complex R&D and NPI projects.
• Experience working within or alongside multidisciplinary technical teams (engineering, research, manufacturing).
• Proficiency with project management frameworks (Agile, Waterfall) and tools (e.g., MS Project, Jira, Confluence).
• Excellent client-facing and stakeholder management skills.
• Familiarity with regulated environments (e.g., ISO 13485, medical device directives) is highly desirable, though not essential.
• Project management certification (PMP, PRINCE2, Agile/Scrum) would be advantageous.

Why Join?

This is a career-defining opportunity to join a company recognised for its innovation, technical excellence, and collaborative culture. You’ll work on projects with leading global tech companies and help shape next- optical and AR/VR technologies.

Alongside competitive benefits, the role offers genuine scope for personal growth and career development—within a company that values creativity, innovation, and professional progression.

Technical Project Manager – R&D & NPI Projects

Location: Oxfordshire (Hybrid)

Type: Full-Time | Permanent

Salary: Competitive + Benefits