R&D Technician

Knauf; Sittingbourne; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Knauf, a leader in construction materials, seeks an R&D Technician in Sittingbourne to support product development and testing. Ideal candidates will hold a relevant degree, possess AutoCAD skills, and have a background in laboratory work. A competitive salary, extensive benefits, and a supportive work environment await ambitious applicants.

Benefits

33 days annual leave + buy and sell

Three paid days leave for community, charitable, or voluntary commitments

7% employer pension contribution

Level 3 Westfield Cashplan Healthcare

Income Protection

Access to a Reward & Benefits platform

Life Assurance (x 4 times your basic salary)

Cycle to Work Scheme and Tech Scheme

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of scientific methods and analytical thinking.
• Hands-on experience in a laboratory environment.
• Knowledge of plasterboard systems installation and formulations is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Support development and testing of new products through detailed test program co-ordination.
• Maintain a clean lab environment, ensuring health and safety compliance.
• Accurately record results and assist in mechanical testing alongside R&D Project Leader.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Attention to detail

Scientific rigour

Education

Degree in a building, science, or engineering-related field

Tools

AutoCAD

Job description

Knauf stands for opportunity. We know that opportunity looks different to each person and we are proud that we see opportunity in everyone. This exciting role within the Technical Teamcould be the perfect opportunity for you to build a unique career, in a values-led culture with a clear purpose of making tomorrow a home for all of us.

As a Group we are a global manufacturer of construction materials and our41,500team members in90countries across300sites provide a huge opportunity for anyone with ambition and energy. We value everyone's contribution equally and we ask that you bring your whole self to work, to enrich the business further, as together we achieve more in a safe and inclusive environment.

Join our team as a full-time R&D Technician at our Sittingbourne site, reporting directly to the R&D Technical Manager.

We pride ourselves on being a flexible employer, if you would like to discuss alternative working arrangements or hours, please feel free to enquire.

Can you say yes?

• Do you hold a degree in a building, science, or engineering-related field?
• Are you knowledgeable and experienced in using AutoCAD?
• Do you have hands-on experience in a laboratory environment, with a strong understanding of scientific methods and analytical thinking?

If so, we would welcome your application.

What you'll be doing:

Support with development and testing of new products and systems by assisting in the test program, ensuring thesystems tested meet the specified performance through detailed preparation and co-ordination. Once the testing iscomplete, accurately record performance and create reports to aid strategic decision making.

Main Responsibilities include:

• Maintain a clean and organised lab environment ensuring compliance with company Health and Safety procedures toensure the safety of yourself and others.
• Assist in designing, setting up and conducting mechanical testing in conjunction with of the R&D Project Leader tosupport product/system development.
• Support the products and drywall systems testing plan (acoustics/fire and structural) to move Knauf towards theachievement of its strategic ambitions.
• Accurately record experimental results and maintain details logs of the tests and procedures, providing feedback onthe performance of all tested products and systems.
• Contribute to the development of existing products and drywall systems in order to optimise raw material andformulation costs, whilst ensuring a consistent level of quality and performance.
• Investigate the cause ofcustomer complaints arising from the use of Knauf products on site, in order to safeguard customer loyalty, and reducecosts to Knauf.

What we'd love for you to have:

• A degree (or equivalent) in a building, science or engineering related discipline.
  Knowledge of plasterboard systems installation and plaster formulations is an advantage.
• Knowledge in AutoCAD for designing and interpreting technical drawings.
• An understanding of fire and acoustic test requirements would be highly advantageous.
• Strong attention to details, scientific rigour, and a willingness to continuous learn and develop new skills areessential for this role.

We will provide:

• A competitive salary of up to £35,300+ package
• 33 days annual leave + buy and sell
• Three paid days leave for community, charitable, or voluntary commitments.
• 7% employer pension contribution.
• Level 3 Westfield Cashplan Healthcare.
• Income Protection
• Access to a Reward & Benefits platform.
• Access to Employee Assistance Program (legal or medical advice).
• Life Assurance (x 4 times your basic salary).
• Cycle to Work Scheme and Tech Scheme

What happens next?

We appreciate that your time is precious and applying for a new job can be a lengthy process - so we have committed to replying to your application within five working days.