Research & Development Specialist
Location: Strand, Cape Town
Salary: Market related
Love turning ideas into real, manufacturable products? Join a hands on R&D team shaping the future of innovative wood manufacturing.
Is this you?
You’re practical, curious and enjoy solving technical challenges. You thrive in a workshop environment where ideas quickly become prototypes and improvements. With a strong hands-on approach and natural mechanical aptitude, you enjoy working closely with technical teams to find smarter ways of doing things. You take pride in precision, enjoy documenting processes properly and bring a proactive mindset to improving systems, machinery and products.What you’ll be doing (and why you’ll enjoy it)
You’ll work closely with the Head of R&D to develop new products, refine tooling and optimise specialised machinery. This role combines technical design with practical workshop involvement — translating concepts into manufacturable products and developing jigs, moulds and templates that support production. You’ll prototype and test new designs, improve product durability and manufacturability, and drive continuous improvement initiatives across the factory. You’ll also document technical procedures, develop SOPs and assist with troubleshooting when technical challenges arise in production.Where you’ll be doing it
Our client is an internationally recognised manufacturer within the premium furniture and wood manufacturing industry. Known for blending traditional craftsmanship with advanced production techniques, they export high-quality products to global markets. The organisation has built a strong reputation for innovation, precision engineering and a collaborative culture where designers, craftspeople and technical specialists work together to continuously improve products and processes.What you’ll need
A solid background in woodworking or cabinet making within a manufacturing or workshop environment is essential. Experience with CAD software such as AutoCAD and 3D modelling tools like Fusion is important, along with strong mechanical aptitude and familiarity with metalwork or welding. A relevant qualification in cabinet making, wood technology, mechanical trades or a related field would be advantageous. You should be organised, technically curious and capable of translating design concepts into practical production solutions.What you’ll get
You’ll join a technically focused R&D team where your ideas and expertise will directly influence product development and manufacturing improvements. The role offers exposure to specialised equipment, collaboration with experienced technical professionals and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the growth of a developing research and development function.How to apply
For a confidential discussion please contact Lindokuhle Modisane on (021) 035 1432 or send your CV to l.modisane@thetalentexperts.co.za – We appreciate that your CV might not be fully up to date. No problem, just send us what you have. We do respond to everyone! Just give us a few days to work through your application.Applicant Consent
I agree to the processing of my personal data included in this application. I consent to the processing and retention of the personal information contained in my curriculum vitae or resume for the purposes of placements in future roles that become available.
I am aware that I have the right to withdraw consent at any time, and that I have agreed to the Privacy Policy. I agree to my information being shared with potential employers for the purposes of applications to available roles after discussions with a member of The Talent Experts.