R&D Project Engineer

R&D Project Engineer (Mechanical)

Product Development Team
Permanent, Full Time
Christchurch, NZ

Following continued growth in our R&D function, we are pleased to invite applications for the role of R&D Project Engineer (Mechanical).

The Role

We are seeking a proactive and technically strong R&D Project Engineer to support early-stage product development and innovation.

This role focuses on resolving technical challenges through concept development, prototyping, and testing. You will play a key part in progressing ideas into viable products by delivering robust technical solutions, clear documentation, and structured development outputs.

You will work closely with the R&D Manager, Product Portfolio Managers, and cross-functional teams to accelerate product development and support successful commercialization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead early-stage product concepting and resolve core functional principles


• Identify and prioritise technical risks and challenges to inform decision-making


• Develop and execute test plans, prototypes, and experiments


• Deliver stage-gate documentation and development outputs


• Maintain clear documentation of testing, results, and learnings


• Support project scheduling, planning, and reporting activities


• Collaborate with engineering, production, sales, and automation teams


• Support customer trials, product demonstrations, and new product introductions

About You

You are a hands-on engineer with strong problem-solving capability and a passion for product development.

You will bring:

• Experience in machinery or product design, ideally within an industrial environment


• Strong mechanical design capability


• Proven experience with prototyping, testing, and concept validation


• Strong CAD skills (Autodesk Inventor or similar)


• Ability to analyse technical problems and develop practical solutions


• Excellent communication and documentation skills


• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines


• A collaborative approach and willingness to support team development


• A relevant engineering qualification or equivalent practical experience