Research and Development Senior Specialist

The R&D Senior Specialist is responsible for applying specialized knowledge and skills to the redevelopment of mass-produced products, focusing on improving manufacturing processes, reducing costs, and enhancing product quality. The role includes problem-solving, prototype design, and close collaboration with internal teams and external suppliers to optimize production and ensure client needs are met.

Key Responsibilities

• Continuous Knowledge Improvement: Strive to improve specialized knowledge and skills, including gaining knowledge in related fields and apply this expertise to everyday tasks and problem-solving.
• Client Needs Application: Ensure that the needs and expectations of clients are accurately understood and recognized, and apply their insights to the development and improvement of products and processes.
• Redevelopment of Mass-Produced Products: Lead the redevelopment of mass-produced products to ensure ease of design and manageability of production lines, including molding, assembly, adjustment, inspection, and processes.
• Cost Reduction & Productivity Improvement: Work towards reducing manufacturing costs by improving productivity and quality in the production processes. Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the production line.
• Training and Mentoring: Train and mentor specialists in the team to improve their efficiency and performance, ensuring alignment with the department's QCD (Quality, Cost, Delivery) goals.
• Issue Investigation & Confirmation: Investigate and confirm issues in the production process using the actual Manufacturing/Fabrication Process (MFP). Work to resolve technical challenges and ensure smooth operations.
• Data Collection & Analysis: Perform part measurements and collect relevant data for analysis, providing insights that support decision-making on product and process improvements.
• Prototype Design & Testing: Design prototype parts and jigs using 3D CAD Software and assemble them for testing. Test hypotheses and validate design concepts to ensure they meet performance and quality expectations.
• Collaboration with External Suppliers and Partners: Collaborate and exchange technical information with external suppliers and local companies to resolve issues and implement improvements.
• Cross-Department Coordination: Coordinate and collaborate with internal departments, such as production, quality assurance, and engineering to ensure smooth management of R&D activities and support operational goals.
• Product and Process Improvement: Drive improvements in units and parts by addressing issues, proposing, and executing design changes to enhance overall product performance and manufacturability.
• Reporting & Documentation: Prepare and review reports documenting progress, improvements, and issues within the R&D function. Ensure that all documentation is clear, accurate, and delivered on time.

• TA: Report on the progress of production site issues and response policies, including short and mid-term plans.
• ACSPL: Provide updates on production site issues and propose solutions and policies for addressing those issues, along with short to mid-term R&D plans.

• Qualification: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Product Design, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Experience: Proven experience in R&D, product development, and manufacturing processes. Strong proficiency in 3D CAD Software for designing prototypes and conducting product development. Min 3 - 5 years experience in data analysis, part measurement, and troubleshooting in a manufacturing environment.
• Skills: Strong communication and collaboration skills for working with cross-functional teams and external partners. Ability to solve problems, improve efficiency, and propose design changes. Knowledge of mass production techniques and cost-reduction strategies.
• Candidates should possess the ability to relocate to Japan within the next several years and be prepared to work independently in a foreign country.
• Language: Be effectively bilingual in English / Japanese with superior communication.