Research and development

The lab technician performs and interprets entrusted research and tests.

Preparation

• Identifies the work to be performed in conjunction with the operational teams
• Prepares the products and the measurement and analysis devices
• Checks that these devices are properly calibrated and in good working order

Test performance and reporting

• Receives or takes the material/product samples
• Performs the tests using the measurement devices
• Records the measurement and analysis results in a test report
• Submits the results to operational staff
• Works in accordance with quality, health, safety and environment (QHSE) procedures

Training

• Helps train new employees

The R&D officer contributes to the design and development of new products, services or processes, taking into account the company’s strategy and relevant technical constraints and regulatory requirements.

Technology watch

• Monitors and benchmarks the latest technological advances in terms of products, services and/or processes

Product/service/process improvement

• Identifies areas where products, services or processes could be improved
• Promotes these innovative projects to operational staff
• Leads brainstorming meetings to determine the requirements of operational staff
• Writes or helps write specifications for new or amended products, services and/or processes

Product/service/process design and development

• Selects and uses available tools to optimise trials and tests
• Identifies aspects for consideration (product design, usage, mass production process, etc.)
• Specifies the analysis methods to be used to develop innovative solutions, taking account of technical constraints
• Tests, identifies and addresses any malfunctions affecting the developed product, service or process
• Ensures that the product and quality-related aspects comply with the specifications in accordance with the customer’s stated requirement
• Files a patent to protect the intellectual property in the finalised concept

Advising and supporting operational teams

• Assists operational staff in evaluating and selecting service providers for a given project
• Ensures that operational staff fully buy into innovation projects
• Implements the selected innovation projects in conjunction with the operational teams
• Checks that projects are viable once implemented
• Helps operational staff understand complex topics (creating arguments and pitches)
• Acts as a specialist on a given topic (energy, air quality, services, etc.)

Develops a network of partners

• Attends events, meetings and working group sessions with partners (seminars, industry bodies, innovation centres)
• Assesses the maturity of external service providers (business expertise, economic viability, longevity, market positioning) and identifies potential partners
• Sets up the working arrangements with these partners (contract, co-development, stake), including through trials and tests

Special working arrangements: This role involves travel