Research and Development Engineer

Manpower UK; Cardiff; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 69,000; Full time

Job summary

Manpower UK in Cardiff is recruiting a Research and Development Engineer to provide hands‑on mechanical engineering support for lab filtration products. The role covers development, validation, and transfer from concept through to production in a regulated life sciences setting.

The successful candidate will perform feasibility studies, verification, and prototype fabrication, contributing to design reviews and manufacturing readiness while applying strong problem‑solving and technical writing

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• 3–5 years' Rand&D or engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on experience with plastics engineering and injection moulding.
• Familiarity with additive manufacturing (3D printing) and strong written communication.

Responsibilities

• Develop and validate new and existing lab filtration products.
• Lead feasibility studies, design verification, and performance testing.
• Support prototype design, fabrication and iterative development.
• Lead design reviews for new product development (NPD).
• Create 2D/3D CAD models using SolidWorks and assist manufacturing transfer.

Skills

Mechanical design

CAD modelling

Design verification

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

3D printing

Injection moulding

Job description

This contract position for a Research and Development Engineer in Cardiff offers £40–£50 per hour, inside IR35 via umbrella, for an initial 12 months. Working 37.5 hours weekly, the successful candidate provides hands‑on mechanical engineering expertise supporting development, validation and transfer of lab filtration products within a regulated life sciences setting.

Duties encompass feasibility studies, design verification, performance testing, prototype fabrication and iterative refinement, alongside technical problem‑solving and participation in design reviews.

Applicants should demonstrate solid mechanical design capabilities, practical laboratory experience and familiarity with manufacturing readiness. The assignment suits an engineer keen to apply technical knowledge across the full product lifecycle, from concept through to production transfer.

Randamp;D Engineer - Lab Filtration Hours per week: 37.5 Site Location: Cardiff Rate: £50 per hour (Inside IR35 via Umbrella) Duration: 12 Months

Role Summary

The Randamp;D Contingent Engineer will provide hands‑on mechanical engineering expertise to support the development, validation, and transfer of new and existing lab filtration products. The role focuses on prototype development, design verification, manufacturing readiness, and technical problem‑solving in a regulated life sciences environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise in the development and validation of new and existing products
• Conduct feasibility studies, design verification, and performance testing
• Support prototype design, fabrication, and iterative development
• Lead and contribute to design reviews for new product development (NPD)
• Develop 2D/3D CAD models using SolidWorks
• Support manufacturing transfer, process validation, and supplier engagement
• Prepare technical reports and product documentation
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor''s degree (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience
• 3-5 years'' experience in Randamp;D or engineering in a manufacturing environment
• Hands‑on experience with plastics engineering and injection moulding
• Familiarity with additive manufacturing (3D printing)
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical writing skills