R&D Engineer

Artifex; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Artifex is seeking an R&D Engineer to drive product development from ideation through production feasibility. You will design, test and manufacture innovative products, lead risk management, and own design transfers to manufacture while communicating critical technical decisions to stakeholders.

The role requires experience in plastics production, automotive context, and strong technical writing with the ability to distill complex data into clear recommendations.

Qualifications

• Master or Bachelor in a relevant subject.
• Experience in a (plastics) production and/or an assembly environment, linked to automotive.
• Excellent time management and prioritisation skills.
• Proficient in technical writing and in the development and writing of test protocols and reports.

Responsibilities

• Design, development, testing and manufacture of innovative products.
• Lead risk management activity for assigned product development area.
• Lead the design transfer of products from development stage to manufacture.
• Create and execute research programs and project plans to meet deadlines.
• Communicate key information to influence technical decisions and strategy.

Skills

Time management

Technical writing

Data analysis

Communication

CAD

Education

Master or Bachelor in a relevant subject

Tools

Windows Office

CAD

Job description

R&D Engineer

Main Purpose Of The Job

To follow the Product Development to implement R&D projects from the Ideation Phase to Production Feasible. Understanding Market Trends, Consumer Direction and Legislative Requirements to ensure that Artifex is able to continue advanced development meeting future requirements.

Main Missions And Results

• Design, development, testing, and manufacture of innovative products.
• Formulate and own new, innovative approaches to solve technical problems.
• Lead the test method development and validation.
• Identify and develop innovative design and process solutions to meet the requirements of the automotive industry.
• Develop detailed project plans for assigned product responsibilities to include design, development, design control, quality and regulatory requirements.
• Lead risk management activity for assigned product development area.
• Compile and manage technical reviews.
• Lead the design transfer of products from development stage to manufacture.
• Create, communicate and execute research programs and project plans to meet project deadlines.
• Communicate key information and recommendations to influence technical decisions and strategy.
• Engage in a continuous program of learning to broaden knowledge in technical expertise.
• Full cross functional engagement within both Artifex, and suppliers, for component development, tooling, and qualification.
• Contribution to intellectual property generation, including invention disclosures and patent support.
• Ability to leverage emerging technologies, materials, and manufacturing techniques.

Preferred Skills And Experience

• Excellent time management and prioritisation skills within a multi project environment are essential for success in this role.
• Proficient in technical writing and in the development and writing of test protocols and reports.
• Proven ability to compile complex data, analyse and distil to deliver clear concise recommendations to drive device design.
• Master or Bachelor in a relevant subject matter.
• Experience in a (plastics) production and / or an assembly environment, linked to automotive.
• Personal competencies: communicative, assertive, organisationally and analytically strong.
• Problem solver, team player that is also able to work independently and in stressful circumstances.
• Computer knowledge: Windows Office, drawing programs, CAD.
• Additional knowledge: knowledge of injection moulding, tooling, Pro Link.
• Awareness for continuous improvement.
• Languages: English is a must.
• Membership of an appropriate industry related professional body would be advantageous.

Note: this is not an exhaustive list. All employees are expected to show flexibility and continued self-development to meet the ever-changing needs of the business. All job descriptions / vacancy notices will be subject to continual development.

Internal closing date

Monday 13th July 2026.

Equal opportunities statement

Artifex Interior Systems Limited is an equal opportunities employer committed to eliminating discrimination and fostering an inclusive culture for all. Our aim is that our employees will be truly representative of all sections of society, that they feel respected and able to perform at their best. We are committed to creating an environment in which individual differences and the contributions of all our colleagues is recognised.

Internal Mobility

We are always keen to support the development and progression of our existing employees. To help ensure a smooth process end-to-end, please make your line manager aware of any roles you apply for internally. In any case, line management will be informed by HR/Recruitment as part of the recruitment process, so early discussion is encouraged wherever possible.

Interested?

If you’re interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV with your contact details.

If this job isn't quite what you are looking for but you are looking for a new position within Automotive, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.