R&D Technician - Animal

Planet Pharma; Cambridgeshire and Peterborough; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Planet Pharma in Cambridge is seeking an hands-on R&D Technician to build, test, and refine electro-mechanical prototypes for Agritech applications. You’ll collaborate with engineers and designers to push new technologies from concept to test-ready form.

The role focuses on assembling prototypes, maintaining test setups, and precise data recording to support integrated hardware-software solutions. Cambridge-based, on-site team.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a test or development technician for electro-mechanical products.
• Strong hands-on skills with hardware systems, embedded interfaces, instrumentation and debugging.
• Familiarity with I2C, SPI, UART and Ethernet communication protocols.
• Organized with a detail-oriented approach to lab management and documentation.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a proactive, hands-on mindset.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Assemble and troubleshoot electro-mechanical prototypes, including PCBs, sensors, and mechanical components.
• Construct and maintain test setups, jigs, and fixtures using 3D printing and model-making equipment.
• Manage laboratory setups, calibration, and documentation with precision.
• Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, and software teams to ensure seamless integration.
• Record and analyse testing data, reporting results clearly and accurately.

Skills

Test technician experience

Electro-mechanical hardware

Embedded interfaces

Instrumentation & debugging

I2C / SPI / UART / Ethernet

Lab management & documentation

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Education

Diploma in engineering/electronics

B.Sc. Electronics Engineering / B.Eng

Tools

3D printing

Job description

Exciting Opportunity: R&D Technician – Animal Focused Innovation

Are you a hands-on electronics and mechanical enthusiast with a passion for pioneering new technologies? Join a dynamic product team in Cambridge dedicated to developing cutting-edge connected Agritech solutions. As an R&D Technician, you will play a pivotal role in building, testing, and refining prototypes that push the boundaries of agricultural technology. This role offers a unique chance to work alongside talented engineers and designers in a collaborative environment, contributing directly to innovative projects with real-world impact.

This is a fantastic opportunity to bring your technical expertise into the forefront of agricultural innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Assemble and troubleshoot electro-mechanical prototypes, including PCBs, sensors, and mechanical components.
• Construct and maintain test setups, jigs, and fixtures using 3D printing and model-making equipment.
• Manage laboratory setups, calibration, and documentation with precision.
• Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, and software teams to ensure seamless integration.
• Record and analyse testing data, reporting results clearly and accurately.

Required Skills

• Proven experience as a test or development technician for electro-mechanical products.
• Strong hands-on skills with hardware systems, embedded interfaces, instrumentation, and debugging.
• Familiarity with electrical communication protocols such as I2C, SPI, UART, and Ethernet.
• Organized with a detail-oriented approach to lab management and documentation.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a proactive, “hands-on” mindset.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.

Nice To Have Skills

• Experience with RF communication and connected (smart) products.
• Background in complex multidisciplinary projects requiring advanced technical expertise.
• Knowledge of manufacturing databases, data pipelines, and engineering data analysis tools.
• Experience working with subcontractors, external vendors, and production teams for prototypes and testing.

Preferred Education & Experience

• Diploma in engineering, electronics, or a related technical qualification.
• B.Sc. in Electronics Engineering, B.Eng, or equivalent is advantageous.
• Hands-on electronics assembly, troubleshooting, and testing experience, particularly in prototyping, PCB assembly, and fixture creation.

Other Requirements

• Ability to work in a structured process environment with a focus on quality.
• Commitment to continuous learning and innovation.