Job Description

Knauf stands for opportunity. We know that opportunity looks different to each person and we are proud that we see opportunity in everyone. This exciting role within Knauf Insulation could be the perfect next opportunity for you to build a unique career, in a values-led culture with a clear purpose of making tomorrow a home for all of us.

Knauf Insulation is proud to be part of the Knauf Group, a global manufacturer of construction materials. Our division is approaching 50 years of heritage in manufacturing insulation, with a growing global reach in 40 countries and ambitious goals for the future. We are looking for passionate, ambitious people to join our 6,000-strong team and help us achieve these goals. We are all led by the same core values and believe in the powerful potential of large companies to have a positive impact on the world.

The expansion of our Central R&D Department means we are now looking for a R&D Engineer in our HQ in Visé (Belgium) and reporting to the Fiberizing & Forming Technologies R&D Manager.

Can you say ‘yes’?...

• Do you want to apply physics and advanced modelling to solve real manufacturing challenges with a direct impact on business performance?

• Are you excited by the opportunity to design next-generation processes and equipment that support the journey to net-zero carbon manufacturing?

• Would you thrive in a role where simulation, experimentation, pilot testing and industrial-scale implementation all come together?

• Do you enjoy working with experts across engineering, data science, industry and academia to tackle complex, cutting-edge problems?

As R&D Engineer, you'd have the opportunity to work on high-profile projects that are at the heart of the production process and to have a direct impact on the profitability of the business. You will work on the design of next-generation key equipment and processes to meet the company’s net-zero carbon targets. You will also have the opportunity to work with the latest analytical equipment, simulation software, data science applications, and link with external experts from industry and academia to solve cutting edge problems.

What you’ll be doing:

• Develop physics-based and mathematical models for key manufacturing processes in glass fibre production, including thermal losses, fluid flow and combustion dynamics.

• Build a strong understanding of the physics across the full manufacturing process, including melting, fibreising and curing, to support the CO2-free manufacturing journey.

• Translate modelling insights into proof-of-concept designs and industrial-scale testing on pilot lines and production sites, leading these activities where required.

• Work with CFD engineers, physicists and other specialists to ensure simulations apply the appropriate physics for each application and scale.

• Collaborate with process engineering teams to identify critical parameters, optimise operations, and assess the impact of process changes on forces, flows, stresses and overall behaviour.

• Partner with product development teams to improve understanding of the factors affecting product quality and performance, and recommend enhancement strategies using validated models.

• Act as a consultant to Core R&D teams requiring deeper physics insight.

• Work with internal and external experts, including glass scientists, combustion specialists, CFD modellers and process experts, to deepen understanding of fibreising and related phenomena.

• Develop knowledge of manufacturing processes across Knauf Insulation and produce clear reports to support effective knowledge sharing across process and engineering teams.

This role requires travel to collaborate with plant teams and external stakeholders. Expected business travels is up to 30% of time.

We are interested in you as a person; your attitude, behaviours and values. As long as you have the willingness to learn anything you need for the role that you don't already have, we'd love to speak to you.

What we’d love for you to have:

· Degree in Physics or Physical Science with advanced applied Mathematical content (i.e. Physics, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering)

· Understanding of the key Physics involved in our manufacturing of mineral wool fibres using rotating machinery at high temperatures. e.g. Heat transfer and radiation in semi-transparent grey bodies, combustion, thermodynamics, deriving stress, strain (and their rates) in deforming materials

· Strong interest for experimental measurements, validations and proof-of-concept designs

· Strong taste for innovation, thinking outside the box

· Excellent problem solving / data handling / analytical skills, , ideally with programming knowledge

· Ability to meet deadlines / work under pressure / deal with changing priorities

· Ability to work autonomously and within a team

· Excellent oral and written communication skills; good presentation skills. Fluent in English

· Willingness/ ability to travel

If you have experience in the following areas – this is an added advantage:

· Relevant industrial experience (R&D, process development/ optimisation)

· Knowledge on Combustion dynamics and Induction

· Previous knowledge of CFD or modelling

· Expertise in the glass industry

· Knowledge on thermal/mechanical/electrical/magnetic material properties characterization at high temperature

· Knowledge of French or German

We will provide:

As this is a central, international position, the package and associated benefits will be those of the contract's host country. Our common criterion was to build a comprehensive salary package that stands out in the market.

On top of that, a dedicated time for personal development and potential for leadership training will be provided.

What happens next?

We appreciate that your time is precious and applying for a new job can be a lengthy process - so we have committed to replying to your application within five working days.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion (D&I) reinforces our Knauf Insulation values of Making Tomorrow a Home for all of us. We are committed to creating a workplace where we all can thrive, whoever we are, and inspiring a culture of inclusion and innovation that will drive future business success. We do our best to make sure being at work feels like home. To learn more about our business and culture go here ( People & Culture - Knauf Insulation Western Europe)

If there are any other ways that you need to receive this job information, please contact us on alice.haas@knaufinsulation.com.