"Project Engineer - Polymer Processing"

Queen's University Belfast

Powering Research Innovation for Sustainable Manufacturing (PRISM) is a cross-border project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The PRISM Project is focused on supporting SMEs to accelerate the development of low carbon products & processes which decarbonise their respective manufacturing processes, thus improving economic and environmental performance. The PRISM project brings together six research organisations, 24 enterprises and six associate partners to establish three manufacturing clusters. These clusters will focus on sustainable polymer & composite manufacturing processes, concrete production and food manufacturing innovation.

The Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) will lead the PRISM Polymer & Composite cluster and we are seeking a highly motivated Engineer to work in AMIC’s Sustainable Polymer and Composite team.

We are seeking engineers who want to innovate and apply their knowledge to the challenges of industry and society to support the delivery of industrially focused polymer processing projects within AMIC’s advanced manufacturing activities. You will apply your specialist knowledge and experience of methods, processes and process validation to generate innovative research outputs which have a direct economic and technical benefit to companies and sectors. You will work collaboratively with the sustainable polymer and composite team, the wider AMIC team, industry partners, technology providers, national technology centres and academia to deliver key projects focused on advanced polymer processing.

The successful candidate must have:

• Honours degree or equivalent in a relevant engineering discipline, science, or a related discipline with significant relevant industrial experience OR minimum HND in a related engineering discipline with extensive recent and relevant industrial experience.
• Demonstrated practical experience in at least one polymer processing technique (extrusion, injection moulding, rotational moulding, compression moulding, or similar).
• Strong materials knowledge covering polymer types, properties, processing behaviour, and failure mechanisms.
• Evidence of hands-on workshop capability including equipment operation, process parameter control, and practical problem-solving.
• Knowledge and practical application of safety systems, risk management, and COSHH requirements relevant to polymer processing workshop environments.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, process specifications, and material datasheets.
• Evidence of systematic approach to troubleshooting process issues and implementing practical solutions.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team to deliver practical outcomes within project timescales.
• Excellent practical communication skills with ability to produce clear technical records and explain processing activities to industrial partners.
• Willingness to develop expertise across multiple polymer processing techniques through on-the-job learning and training.

To be successful at shortlisting stage, please ensure you clearly evidence in your application how you meet the essential and, where applicable, desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information on our website.

This post is available for 3 years. Fixed term contract posts are available for the stated period in the first instance but in particular circumstances may be renewed or made permanent subject to availability of funding.