Research & Development Engineer

Manpower UK; Cardiff; On-site; GBP 57,000 - 81,000; Full time

Job summary

Manpower UK is seeking an R&D Engineer for Lab Filtration in Cardiff. The role focuses on hands-on mechanical engineering for development, validation, and transfer of lab filtration products in a regulated life sciences environment.

The position involves prototype development, design verification, manufacturing readiness, and technical problem-solving, with CAD work in SolidWorks and collaboration across manufacturing and QA teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience.
• 3-5 years' experience in R&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.

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

Skills

Mechanical engineering

Problem-solving

Analytical

Technical writing

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Job description

R&D Engineer - Lab Filtration

Hours per week: 37.5
Site Location: Cardiff
Rate: £50 per hour (Inside IR35 via Umbrella)
Duration: 12 Months

The R&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 & Experience

• Bachelor's degree (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience
• 3-5 years' experience in R&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