Adande Refrigeration Ltd is a UK based manufacturer of refrigerated drawers that are trusted across the globe.

The R&D Technician is a key member of Adande’s Engineering team, providing hands-on technical support across prototype development, refrigeration testing, and early-stage product evaluation.

The role focuses on building, preparing, and testing functional rigs, building and evolving prototype modules, and competitor evaluations to support Adande’s innovation and new product introduction (NPI) processes.

Working closely with the other members of the engineering team, the technician contributes to concept verification, data acquisition, structured testing, and practical engineering activities that ensure new designs meet performance, compliance, and reliability expectations.

This role requires a methodical, organised, and proactive individual who can work independently, support engineers with high-quality data, reporting, and maintain strong communication throughout the development cycle.

Core Responsibilities

Prototype Development

• Build, prepare, and modify prototype assemblies and test rigs according to engineering requirements.
• Transfer 2D drawing information into accurate physical builds and provide feedback where issues are identified.
• Liaise with the design team to highlight build observations, improvements, or assembly challenges.
• Assist with the development of conceptual prototypes through to production ready units, for foodservice and retail applications.

Testing & Evaluation

• Set up and conduct controlled tests, including climatic chamber testing, refrigeration performance evaluation, and endurance tests.
• Install and calibrate instrumentation, including sensors, data loggers, and test equipment.
• Collect, analyse, and record test data accurately; produce structured reports for engineering reviews.
• Support engineering design evaluations of competitor products and new concepts.

Technical Support & Problem Solving

• Provide technical assistance to the engineering team and service engineers where required 
• Support component sourcing activities in collaboration with the Purchasing team.  Assist with troubleshooting refrigeration, electrical, and mechanical issues encountered during testing or prototype builds.
• Maintain clear communication and ensure diligent, timely reporting of findings.

Supplier & External Collaboration 

• Visit supplier production facilities to assess production feasibility, test capability, and component suitability. 
• Collaborate with suppliers and OEMs to resolve technical issues and support prototype component development – this will be after gaining experience of the Adande product family

Project Delivery & Documentation 

• Take ownership of individual tasks within wider project plans, ensuring delivery to deadlines.
• Follow Stage-Gate processes and document evidence clearly throughout development cycles.
• Produce accurate, timely reports on new and existing development projects

Key Attributes & Behaviours

• Strong attention to detail when reviewing test data and prototype builds. 
• Logical, methodical, and structured working approach. 
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Clear communication and diligent note-taking during builds and tests.
• Professionalism, flexibility, and willingness to adapt to testing schedules.
• Competence in Microsoft Office, especially Excel, and familiarity with engineering documentation.

Experience & Qualifications

• F-Gas qualification (preferred but not essential). 
• Practical and theoretical knowledge of refrigeration systems.
• Understanding of electrical and electronic control systems.
• Experience with product assembly and use of hand/power tools for prototyping purposes.
• Ability to read 2D engineering drawings; 3D CAD knowledge beneficial 
• Forklift license (beneficial).

Training & Progression Pathway

This role has the opportunity to develop with further study, gaining skills and qualifications across Data Analysis, CAD, Technical drawings and broader areas of responsibilities that can be shared in the full role specification and at interview.

Job details:

• R&D Technician
• Location - Office Based – Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR33 7NL
• Salary - £28,000 - £35,000 based on experience
• Hours of work – Monday to Friday 08:00 – 16:30 with unpaid 30-minute break for lunch

How to Apply:

If you are interested in this role and would like to learn more please attach your CV to the link provided.