Job Title: R&D Manager
Location: Yate, Bristol
Reporting: CTO
Workplace type: On-site
About us:
At Motion Impossible, we’re redefining what’s possible in camera tracking and robotic motion systems. From cutting-edge tech for film and broadcast to immersive applications, we’re a hub of innovation, combining electronics, mechatronics, embedded software and advanced application development. If you’re looking for a role that challenges you, engages your skills and keeps you on your toes, we’d love to hear from you.
The Role:
As R&D Manager, you’ll play a pivotal role in our journey, leading a talented team of engineers and overseeing a range of exciting projects. Reporting to the CTO, you’ll be responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the R&D department, driving innovation and ensuring our products meet the highest standards. It’s a role for someone who thrives on variety – whether you’re mentoring your team, refining process or rolling up your sleeves to tackle a technical challenge, no two days will look the same.
Your Responsibilities:
Team Leadership
* Lead and inspire a cross-functional team of engineers across electronics, mechatronics, embedded software and special projects.
* Foster a positive, innovative and results-driven team culture.
Project Management
* Oversee the full product lifecycle – from concept and prototype to testing and release.
* Set project milestones, manage resources and keep delivery on track and within budget.
Technical Oversight
* Ensure our designs meet technical specs, quality benchmarks and regulatory standards.
* Validate system architecture and review technical documentation, from test plans to final reports.
Innovation Strategy
* Stay ahead of the curve, identifying emerging technologies and trends to shape our R&D roadmap and ensure MI’s products remain at the forefront of innovation.
* Collaborate with senior leadership to align R&D goals with our broader company strategy.
Stakeholder Collaboration
* Work closely with internal teams – Operations, Supply Chain, Product Management and Sales – to ensure smooth product integration, manufacturing handover, manufacturability and market readiness.
* Engage with external partners, suppliers and research institutions to forge strategic collaborations and accelerate R&D initiatives.
Process Development
* Refine and implement R&D processes, best practices and standard operating procedures to improve efficiency and quality of outputs.
* Ensure compliance with industry standards, health and safety guidelines and environmental regulations.
What you’ll bring:
* Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electronics, Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science or similar.
* Experience: At least 7-10 years of relevant experience in R&D, with 3-5 years in a managerial or leadership role.
* Technical Expertise:
* Proven experience managing cross-disciplinary teams in electronics, mechanical systems, embedded firmware and application-level software development.
* Strong understanding of product development life cycles, rapid prototyping and design-for-manufacture principles.
* Hands-on knowledge of CAD, PCB design software, embedded systems toolchains and relevant programming languages.
* Project Management: Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects with multiple stakeholders, tight deadlines and evolving requirements. Agile/Scrum methodology experience is a plus.
* Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication; ability to distil complex technical concepts into clear, actionable insights for different audiences.
* Leadership & Interpersonal Skills: Proven ability to inspire teams, resolve conflicts, facilitate collaboration and build a positive, productive work environment.
What we’re looking for:
* A strategic thinker with a hands-on approach to problem-solving.
* Results-driven, with an acute attention to detail and quality.
* Adaptable and resilient in the face of technical challenges and market shifts.
* A passion for technology, innovation and pushing the limits of what’s possible.
What we offer:
* Competitive salary
* 25 days’ annual leave
* Bupa private health care
* Pension plan with up to 3% matching
* Regular social activities and team outings
More importantly, you’ll be joining a company where innovation is part of the DNA. This is a chance to work on projects that challenge the status quo and make a real impact in the world of film, TV, broadcast and immersive content.
How to apply:
Think this could be the role for you? Send us your CV, a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and any portfolio examples to careers@motion-impossible.com or apply via LinkedIn. If via email, please include R&D Manager Application in the subject line.
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