R&D Manager

⚙️ R&D Manager – Thermal Annealing FurnacesDivision: Industry – Metals | John Cockerill📍 Based in Liège – International Projects 🌍 Join a committed technology leader Founded in 1817, John Cockerill supports sustainable innovation to address today’s global challenges.With expertise in services and equipment for the energy, defense, industry, environment, transport, and infrastructure sectors, the Group designs tailor-made technological solutions for companies, governments, and communities.With more than 8,000 employees, John Cockerill achieved revenues of €1.417 billion in 2024, across 28 countries on 5 continents. 🏗️ An opportunity within the Metals sector Are you ready to work on impactful international projects in the steel and automotive industries?Join John Cockerill as R&D Manager – Thermal Annealing Furnaces within the Industry – Metals division. 🧩 Position context The metallurgical industry is evolving towards higher performance and sustainability.John Cockerill’s Industry – Metals division designs and supplies advanced industrial equipment: reheating furnaces, surface treatment lines, rolling mills, automation systems, and more.Thanks to our expertise in engineering, international project management, and sourcing, we deliver tailor-made solutions, providing support from installation to transformation and optimization. 🎯 Your role Within the cold steel sector, the R&D Manager – Thermal Annealing Furnaces acts as a technical reference, bringing expertise in furnace design and construction to support projects within the thermal department. You will master the technical knowledge required for the design and construction of annealing/galvanizing furnaces for process lines (carbon steel, stainless steel, silicon steel).You will also lead the strategy and execution of R&D activities, driving innovation in thermal processes at John Cockerill. 🛠️ Your responsibilities 🔹 R&D strategy Identify innovation areas: impact of 3rd-generation steels on annealing furnaces, energy efficiency, emission reduction, automation, artificial intelligence, etc. Plan annual and multi-year R&D projects Conduct technology and regulatory watch 🔹 Project management Draft technical specifications Ensure the safety of innovations and developments Supervise developments, laboratory testing, and industrial trials Collaborate with design, production, maintenance, quality, and safety teams 🔹 Management & coordination Lead a team of engineers and technicians Be the driving force behind R&D in annealing furnaces at John Cockerill Organize and lead project follow-up meetings Develop partnerships internally (across sectors) and externally (with research centers, universities, suppliers) 🔹 Budget & reporting Define and monitor the R&D budget Present results to senior management 👤 Profile Technical skills: Engineering degree or PhD in Thermal Engineering, Materials, Metallurgy, or Industrial Engineering Strong knowledge of annealing processes and environmental standards Experience in project management and furnace instrumentation Proven experience in R&D, preferably in the steel industry Proficiency in French and professional English Personal qualities: Leadership, innovation mindset, and scientific rigor Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly Strong synthesis and communication skills Hands-on approach and ability to manage multi-site projects 🎁 What we offer A central role in high-stakes industrial projects A collaborative, responsible, and innovation-driven culture Technical challenges in an international environment An attractive package including:🚗 Company car🍽️ Meal vouchers💰 Performance-related bonus🏠 Remote working opportunities🌴 31 vacation days📈 Health insurance & pension plan 📅 Recruitment process Initial interview with Antoine Godeo Barrera (Talent Acquisition) Technical & HR interview with project teams Final meeting with division management 🚀 Ready to lead impactful international industrial projects?