Heritage Luxury Materials R&D Lead

RH; Torrance (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

RH is seeking a dedicated Senior Research & Development Specialist to drive material innovation at our Formations Manufacturing facility in Torrance, CA. You will collaborate with Formations Co-Founders and senior designers to translate centuries-old design precedents into scalable luxury collections.

This role focuses on 18th–19th century materials, weathering tests, and ensuring period-accurate finishes across hardware, glass and wood carvings, while coordinating with West Hollywood design

Qualifications

• 7+ years in product development, R&D or engineering within luxury furniture/arts/architectural sectors.
• Expert knowledge of 18th-19th century design movements and period materials.
• Ability to assess finishes: machine vs hand-applied patinas; strong visual acuity.
• Degree in a technical design field is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Translate creative visions into scalable luxury collections.
• Develop material specification sheets for new collections.
• Oversee weathering tests and validate material performance in climate conditions.
• Review samples for period-accurate proportions, textures and patinas.
• Coordinate with production and design leaders to align materials with paints, waxes and patinas.
• Troubleshoot defects to uphold luxury quality standards.
• Audit production lines to preserve traditional textures and joinery.
• Support timelines, budgets and feasibility across R&D initiatives.
• Lead material testing for outdoor composites and weathering protocols.

Skills

R&D experience

Luxury furniture knowledge

Design trend analysis

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Materials Science

Furniture Design

Wood Science and Technology

Architecture

Art History

Job description

RH is seeking a dedicated Senior Research & Development Specialist to drive material innovation at our Formations Manufacturing facility in Torrance, CA. You will collaborate with Formations Co-Founders and senior designers to translate centuries-old design precedents into scalable luxury collections.

This role focuses on 18th–19th century materials, weathering tests, and ensuring period-accurate finishes across hardware, glass and wood carvings, while coordinating with West Hollywood design