Research and Development Project Manager

JR United Kingdom; Derby; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading provider of innovative laser systems seeks an experienced R&D Project Manager in Derby. The candidate will be responsible for leading sustainment and New Product Introduction projects, managing risks, and ensuring project goals are met in a complex technical environment. The role requires excellent communication skills and the ability to manage cross-functional teams effectively.

Qualifications

• Experience in a manufacturing environment, managing technical projects.
• Familiarity with SCRUM / AGILE frameworks.
• Ability to quickly learn about laser technology.

Responsibilities

• Define project phases and organize work efficiently.
• Track project KPIs and ensure adherence to processes.
• Facilitate workshops and oversee project closeouts.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Project Management

Risk Management

Education

Degree in Science, Technology, or Engineering

Equivalent Industrial Experience

Job description

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Research and Development Project Manager, Derby

Client: Solutions Driven

Location: Derby, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

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EU work permit required: Yes

Job Views: 4

Posted: 04.06.2025

Expiry Date: 19.07.2025

Job Description:

A leading provider of innovative laser systems to help people in various global markets, including renewables, microelectronics, research, life science, automotive, and medicine.

We seek an experienced R&D Project Manager to lead and coordinate both sustainment and New Product Introduction (NPI) projects.

The Project Manager will support smooth project execution, foster collaboration across teams, and may manage cross-site or non-NPI projects critical to product development. Success in this role requires driving progress, aligning stakeholders, and ensuring project goals are met within a technically complex environment.

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Define project phases and organize work for logical and efficient execution.
• Establish clear deliverables and milestones, ensuring goals are well communicated.
• Maintain and update the risk register, ensuring proactive risk management.
• Facilitate project workshops, ensuring outcomes align with project goals.
• Oversee project closeouts, documenting key findings and best practices.

Performance Monitoring & Process Improvement

• Track project KPIs, including time, resources, and costs.
• Provide project updates and required documentation.
• Continuously improve project processes and documentation.
• Ensure adherence to NPI processes and maintain control over project records.
• Manage phase gate reviews, gathering sign-offs and logging issues.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Degree in science, technology, or engineering, or equivalent industrial experience.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment, including transfer from design engineering to manufacturing in a high-tech setting.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience managing technical projects, ideally with SCRUM / AGILE frameworks.
• Ability to quickly learn about laser technology.
• A passion for working across functions, building relationships, and driving engagement.