Venatu Recruitment are proud to be assisting a leading client in their search for a new R&D Testing and NPD Engineer Lead.
They're a bespoke door manufacturer based in Downham Market, specialising in the design and production of high-quality, certified doorsets. Their extensive range of fully accredited doorsets and ironmongery is supplied pre-assembled and ready for installation.
Due to continued growth and expansion, they're seeking a Fire Door Test and NPD Engineer Lead to oversee the planning, coordination, and delivery of product testing and R&D programmes. In this role, you will ensure that both new and existing products remain fully compliant and aligned with evolving market requirements. The position carries a strong focus on testing strategy, certification processes, technical documentation, and the successful delivery of project-based initiatives.
This is a permanent, full-time position offering a salary of £40,000–£55,000 per year, depending on experience. Standard working hours are 7:30am to 5:00pm, Monday to Friday, with a 45-minute lunch break. Working hours can be discussed further at the initial interview.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist with implementation of product development and testing programmes, keeping on track with R&D/ NPD roadmap
- Manage testing process including scoping, quoting, negotiating to run with best testing provider
- Complete detailed technical documentation and forms required for certification or testing
- Carry out testing in line with agreed strategy, including ad-hoc testing for project-specific needs
- Project manage the testing of new products, including handling quotes, ordering, scheduling and full coordination of preparation and delivery
- Maintain and track the R&D budget, and project costs for annual reporting
- Collaborate with the Technical team on cross-department projects for product or process improvement
- Work with Supply Chain and Technical to explore new suppliers and product lines, identifying commercial or operational gains.
- Work with certification bodies to create new product scopes and ensure alignment with market and regulatory requirements
- Produce or resource CAD designing and technical drawings for testing, customer, and internal use
Candidate Requirements:
- Previous experience in a technical, R&D, or testing role (preferably in fire doors, construction, or building products)
- Familiarity with UK certification schemes for fire doors preferred (e.g. EN1634-1, BD476)
- Experience working within a fast-paced environment and under pressure
- Proactive, solutions-focused mindset with strong commercial awareness
- Excellent attention to detail, documentation, and accuracy with strong analytical skills
- Confident and professional communciation skills.
- Confidentiality
Alongside a competitive salary, this position offers a range of attractive benefits, making it an excellent opportunity for the right candidate. If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and play a key role in their continued growth, we’d love to hear from you - please apply today with your CV.
