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Lead Process Engineer – R&D & Advanced Manufacturing
? Location: Newcastle Upon Tyne
  
Are you passionate about advanced manufacturing and driving innovation in materials engineering? We’re looking for a Lead Process Engineer to lead the development and optimisation of cutting-edge processing techniques that improve product quality, yield, and efficiency in high-performance materials.
  
This is a hands-on leadership role where you’ll combine deep technical expertise with strategic project management, working at the intersection of thermal processing, automation, and materials innovation.
  
? What You’ll Do

Innovate & Optimise: Develop and refine high-temperature processes to improve efficiency, purity, and reliability.
Lead Projects: Manage R&D and scale-up programs from concept to production, using Six Sigma, Stage-Gate, or Agile methods.
Solve Problems: Provide rapid, practical solutions to live production challenges.
Advance Technology: Introduce automation, real-time monitoring, and AI/ML for predictive process control.
Ensure Quality: Drive compliance with industry standards and customer requirements through robust validation and testing.
Collaborate & Influence: Work cross-functionally with operations, engineering, procurement, and commercial teams, while partnering with external research and technology providers.
Champion Safety & Knowledge: Promote safety in high-voltage, gas, and thermal environments while documenting and sharing best practices.   
? How Success Will Be Measured

Shorter innovation cycles and time-to-market
Higher adoption of new processes & technologies
Reduced energy and material usage
Improved yield, consistency, and quality
Successful transfer of R&D innovations to production
Tangible cost savings and ROI from innovation initiatives   
? What We’re Looking For

Strong background in complex process environments
Must have innovated processes from concept, not only followed or tweaked existing processes.
Experience in process optimisation, scale-up, and SPC
Familiarity with automation, PLC/SCADA/DCS systems, and digital controls
Proven project management and stakeholder engagement skills Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Physical Sciences (Master’s/PhD preferred)
7+ years in process engineering or R&D within advanced manufacturing, high-purity, or high-performance materials sectors   
? Why Join Us?

Be at the forefront of advanced materials and manufacturing innovation
Lead projects with real impact on efficiency, scalability, and sustainability
Collaborate with world-class engineers, researchers, and industry partners
Shape the future of high-performance products used in critical industries   
? Ready to lead innovation in advanced manufacturing? Apply now and take your career to the next level with Verso