Product Development Specialist – Manhole and Other

Job Title: Product Development Specialist – Manhole and Other

Department: Technical and Engineering

Position Type: Full-Time

Location: Gauteng

Job Summary

The Product Development Specialist drives end-to-end New Product Development (NPD) for Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) component portfolios. This role ensures that all new and modified products are developed within a structured NPD framework—from concept through design, validation, testing, and launch—while adhering to applicable engineering standards and quality requirements. The position collaborates closely with the Head of Technical & Engineering, production teams, clients, and suppliers to deliver high-quality FRP solutions.

Key Responsibilities

NPD Framework & Process Management

• Implement and champion a structured Stage-Gate or equivalent NPD methodology across all product lines.

• Manage the complete product development lifecycle: concept, feasibility, design, prototype, testing, validation, and launch.

• Maintain NPD documentation, including design briefs, development plans, risk registers, and product dossiers.

• Track all NPD projects against established timelines, milestones, and budget targets.

Engineering Design & Technical Development

• Develop product design strategies and roadmaps aligned with overall business objectives.

• Identify opportunities for product improvements, innovation, and technology adoption within the engineering function.

• Lead the engineering design of new FRP components and assemblies using appropriate CAD software.

• Review and verify structural calculations for accuracy, completeness, and standards compliance.

• Approve or reject simulation results based on technical validity and compliance requirements.

• Translate customer requirements into precise detailed drawings, specifications, material selections, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).

• Investigate and apply new FRP materials, resins, reinforcement fabrics, core materials, and manufacturing methods.

• Conduct preliminary and critical design reviews (PDR/CDR) at key stage gates.

Testing, Validation & Compliance

• Define and execute tailored product testing plans (structural, mechanical, environmental, durability, fire/smoke/toxicity).

• Coordinate testing schedules with internal labs, third-party test houses, and certification bodies.

• Analyze test results, generate technical reports, and manage non-conformances or corrective actions.

• Ensure full product compliance with relevant standards (SANS, ISO, ASTM, BS, DNV, or client specifications).

• Maintain qualification records, test certificates, and compliance documentation.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Improvement

• Partner with Sales and Business Development to convert client needs into technical specifications.

• Collaborate with Production and Process Engineering to design for manufacturability and cost-efficiency.

• Work with Supply Chain and Procurement on raw material qualification and supplier approvals.

• Support Quality teams in defining in-process controls, acceptance criteria, and inspection plans.

• Conduct value engineering activities and apply lessons learned to optimize existing products.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree or National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Materials Science, Polymer Technology, or a related field. Postgraduate qualifications or certifications in Project Management (PMP/PRINCE2) or composite materials are advantageous.

• Experience: 3–5 years of experience in product development, engineering design, or process engineering within a manufacturing setting. Demonstrated track record managing NPD projects from concept to launch.

• Industry Focus: Strong preference for experience in FRP, GRP, or composite materials manufacturing. Exposure to structural testing, laminate analysis, or material qualification processes is a plus.

• Technical Skills: Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or equivalent). Solid understanding of Stage-Gate, APQP, DFM, laminate theory, mould design, and common FRP manufacturing processes (hand lay-up, infusion, RTM, spray-up, pultrusion).

• Software & Standards: Knowledge of ISO, ASTM, SANS, BS, or DNV standards. Proficiency in MS Office Suite and project management tools (e.g., MS Project).

Core Competencies

• Engineering Design & CAD Drafting

• NPD & Stage-Gate Management

• Material Science & FRP/Composites Knowledge

• Testing, Validation & Regulatory Compliance

• Risk Assessment (FMEA)

• Technical Documentation & Stakeholder Reporting