R&D Project Manager - 1131

Thorlabs
Ely
1 week ago
Create job alert

What is the job?

We’re looking for an R&D Project Manager to lead and manage key strategic R&D projects, ensuring alignment with company goals and objectives. You’ll develop project plans, including timelines, milestones, and resource allocation, and work closely with engineering management and lead project engineers to ensure all project tasks are captured and executed on.

 

Working Hours:Monday to Friday 8.00 am – 4.30 pm (Hybrid working available)

Who we are?

Thorlabs is a global, industry leading optical technologies company. We are experts in the design and manufacture or a range of innovative photonics products. We use these products in manufacturing and research, from fibre optics to piezo motors. We are the gold standard with optics laboratories worldwide. There are now 22 facilities across the world in 9 countries. Here in Ely, we are responsible for the Motion Control and Optical Tables product line.

 

Where you will be working?

It’s a hybrid role, working in our new purpose-built facility in Witchford, Ely as well as your home. Our purpose-built facility is just 12 miles from Cambridge, within the beautiful mediaeval city of Ely. There are train and bus links to Ely from Kings Cross and Liverpool Street London, and our site is within distance of Ely train station and Ely Bus station.

Requirements

What is essential to us…

  • Degree in a relevant technical field (e.g., Engineering, Science) or equivalent experience or qualifications.
  • Proven experience in project management, preferably in an R&D environment.
  • Strong leadership and team management skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Proficiency with software tools to support project management, ideas brainstorming and problem solving.
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Ability to mentor and coach team members.
  • Strong work ethic and ability to lead by example.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

What we would like you to do/ to see…

  • Lead and manage key strategic R&D projects, ensuring alignment with company goals and objectives.
  • Develop project plans, including timelines, milestones, and resource allocation.
  • Work closely with engineering management and lead project engineers to ensure all projects tasks are captured and executed on.
  • Coordinate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, marketing, and manufacturing.
  • Monitor project portfolio progress and adjust as necessary to ensure successful completion.
  • Communicate project status, issues, and successes to stakeholders and senior management.
  • Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
  • Foster a collaborative and innovative team environment.
  • Ensure effective communication with all project stakeholders.
  • Develop meeting materials, presentations, and other written materials.
  • Plan and lead project reviews with project team members.
  • Ensure effective use of tools to document and monitor project progress.

What will you get?

At Thorlabs there are lots of opportunities for inhouse customised training and development that accelerates your career progression. We have free onsite parking, free refreshments, as well as an entertainment area in our large canteen for your enjoyment.

 

And the benefits are?

Competitive Salary to attract the best, plus an excellent benefits package including pension, health care, 25 days holiday plus public holidays.

 

Job Reference:THOR-VC-1131

 

This is a rolling campaign, so we will actively interview applicants. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

 

We welcome applications from persons who are over 18 years old.

*This is a legal requirement, further information is hereSchool leaving age - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

 

We would encourage all internal applicants to inform their line managers of their interest in this position.

Benefits

1d9df0756b97de3ca3cff2432a066cfb.png-Contributed Pension Scheme5161fae0b975b7364228077b183258ac.png-Group Life Coverb6a6454e1f80e14fb65c722973e86d9f.png-Private Health Caree850ec11c8473c8e62469f16a60f3ef3.png-Group Income Protection & more.

Please apply through the Apply for this job button or send a copy of your CV along with a covering letter and your salary expectations to: Human Resources at Thorlabs Ltd, 204 Lancaster Way Business Park, Ely, Cambs, CB6 3NX or e-mail .
2d95928a5b7ab12772dceb2f6f4ae82b.png

In line with the requirements of the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006, all applicants must have a valid permission to enter or remain in the UK with no condition that prevents them from working in the UK. Documented evidence of such permission will be required from candidates as part of the recruitment process.

Related Jobs

View all jobs

R&D Project Manager - 1131

Principal Research Engineer (Fuel Feed)

Senior Project Manager

Principal Project Manager

Project Manager

Project Manager

Get the latest insights and jobs direct. Sign up for our newsletter.

By subscribing you agree to our privacy policy and terms of service.

Industry Insights

Discover insightful articles, industry insights, expert tips, and curated resources.

Navigating Quantum Computing Career Fairs Like a Pro: Preparing Your Pitch, Questions to Ask, and Follow-Up Strategies to Stand Out

Quantum computing has rapidly progressed from a theoretical concept to a promising technology poised to transform fields as varied as cryptography, drug discovery, finance, and logistics. Bolstered by significant investment and national strategies, the UK is emerging as a major hub for research and innovation in this domain. As a result, quantum computing career fairs have begun to pop up, providing opportunities for aspiring quantum software developers, hardware engineers, theoretical physicists, and more to meet and impress potential employers. Whether you’re a quantum computing PhD candidate ready to transition into industry, a software engineer pivoting into quantum algorithm design, or an experimental physicist with a passion for superconducting circuits, these fairs can help you connect with companies and research institutions at the cutting edge of the quantum revolution. This article details the steps you need to take to stand out—covering essential preparation, crafting the perfect pitch, asking smart questions, and following up to strengthen relationships. If you want to harness the power of quantum computing to shape the future, read on.

Common Pitfalls Quantum Computing Job Seekers Face and How to Avoid Them

Quantum computing stands at the cutting edge of technology, promising revolutionary breakthroughs in cryptography, drug discovery, optimisation, artificial intelligence, and beyond. Organisations worldwide are pouring investment into quantum research, creating new opportunities for physicists, computer scientists, mathematicians, engineers, and software developers who have the skills to harness quantum phenomena. The UK, in particular, is home to a burgeoning quantum ecosystem, with university labs, start-ups, and large tech companies all vying for talent. However, entering this high-stakes field is no small feat. Quantum computing employers set a high bar in both technical proficiency and problem-solving capabilities. Many qualified candidates inadvertently stumble on common mistakes that weaken their applications or interview performances. This article delves into the most frequent pitfalls faced by quantum computing job seekers—and offers practical guidance on how to avoid them. If you’re seeking roles in the UK’s quantum computing sector, be it hardware engineering, quantum software development, algorithm research, or quantum cryptography, don’t forget to visit Quantum Computing Jobs for openings tailored to your aspirations. By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll give yourself the best chance of standing out and contributing to a field that could shape the future of technology itself.

Career Paths in Quantum Computing: From Research to Leadership and Beyond

Quantum computing, once a purely theoretical concept, is rapidly transitioning into a transformative technology with real-world applications. By harnessing the principles of quantum mechanics, these powerful machines could solve problems in drug discovery, cryptography, logistics, and AI—problems that would be effectively intractable for classical supercomputers. For professionals in the UK, this emerging field offers unique, high-impact career opportunities at the intersection of physics, computer science, and engineering. But how do you begin a career in quantum computing—and how can you progress from entry-level research to management and senior leadership? In this guide, we’ll explore: The growing importance of quantum computing in the UK Entry-level quantum computing roles for new graduates or early-career professionals Essential skills and qualifications Mid-level and specialist positions Senior and leadership pathways in the quantum ecosystem Emerging trends shaping the future of quantum computing Practical tips for job seekers on www.quantumcomputingjobs.co.uk By the end, you’ll have a clearer path to thrive in quantum computing—one of the most exciting, high-stakes areas in modern science and technology.