Job description
Job Summary
The R&D Officer is responsible for supporting research, product development, supplier evaluation, and project coordination activities within the Research & Development Department. The role involves liaising with suppliers, gathering technical information, conducting product and market research, coordinating trials and approvals, maintaining project documentation, and ensuring timely follow-up of ongoing R&D activities to support innovation and product enhancement initiatives across NAFFCO.
Key Responsibilities
Daily and Routine Tasks
Respond to departmental emails and maintain effective communication with internal and external stakeholders.
Coordinate with suppliers regarding technical information, product specifications, quotations, samples, testing requirements, technical clarifications, and project requirements.
Request, collect, review, organize, analyze, and distribute relevant technical and commercial information from suppliers
Review supplier websites, product catalogs, datasheets, certifications, and technical documentation.
Monitor and follow up on pending activities, supplier responses, and project milestones until closure.
Schedule and coordinate meetings with suppliers, engineers, and relevant stakeholders.
Update and maintain records of ongoing projects, development activities, and supplier communications.
Weekly and Monthly Responsibilities
Ensure proper closure and documentation of completed projects and packages.
Prepare project summaries and monitor the status of ongoing and pending activities.
Compile and submit monthly R&D department progress reports.
Coordinate and participate in departmental review and progress meetings.
Track project deliverables and ensure adherence to established timelines.
Identify delays, pending decisions, missing information, and potential project risks and escalate them to the concerned person.
Research and Development Functions
Evaluate suppliers and manufacturers based on technical capability, product suitability, certifications, quality, availability, application experience, and technical support.
Conduct market research on new products, materials, technologies, and industry trends relevant to NAFFCO products.
Collect, organize, and analyze qualitative and quantitative data to support technical evaluation, product development, and engineering decision-making.
Compare supplier quotations, technical specifications, certifications, performance data, application suitability, interface requirements, and compliance requirements.
Research alternative products, components, materials, and suppliers to support cost optimization and product improvement initiatives.
Coordinate product evaluations, testing, supplier demonstrations, product trials, approvals, and implementation activities.
Support the engineering team during new product development and product improvement activities.
Support the preparation and review of technical specifications, product requirements, datasheets.
Support the preparation and review of Bills of Materials (BOMs), component lists, technical comparison sheets, and product documentation.
Documentation and Reporting
Maintain and update running job reports and project tracking records.
Collect technical literature, product information, and supplier contacts from exhibitions and technical events.
Prepare technical and product evaluation reports following exhibitions or supplier visits.
Coordinate follow-up actions with suppliers and relevant internal stakeholders.
Develop supplier comparison reports and product benchmarking analyses.
Generate monthly departmental progress reports and presentation materials.
Ensure proper documentation and filing of technical information, supplier communications, test results, approvals, project records, and revisions.
Coordination and Communication
Coordinate with engineering teams through designated project coordinators.
Arrange and facilitate supplier product demonstrations, meetings, and trials.
Liaise with cross-functional departments to ensure smooth execution of R&D initiatives.
Support collaboration between suppliers, engineers, quality, production, and procurement teams.
Systems and Tools
Microsoft Outlook
Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft PowerPoint
Canva
Internet-based research tools and supplier portals
AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT
Online technical resources including YouTube and supplier knowledge platforms
Qualifications
Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Technology, Business Administration, or a related field.
2-5 years of experience in Research & Development, Product Development, Technical Coordination, Procurement, or a related role.
Experience working with suppliers, technical documentation, and project coordination is preferred.
Required Skills and Competencies
Strong technical research and analytical skills.
Excellent communication and supplier management abilities.
Strong coordination and follow-up skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.
Ability to analyze technical data, product specifications, technical drawings, datasheets, manuals, certificates, and supplier information.
Report preparation and presentation skills.
Problem-solving and continuous improvement mindset.
Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
Familiarity with AI-based productivity tools and digital research platforms.
What We Offer
Opportunity to work on innovative projects within a collaborative, multidisciplinary team
Professional development, training and career progression opportunities
Supportive environment that values continuous improvement and knowledge sharing