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