R&D Product Designer- Norwich

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: R&D Product Designer

Company: Amcor

Location: Norwich, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Research & Development / Product Design

Date Posted: 2026-04-24

Experience Level: Mid-level (3-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Conceptualize, design, and develop innovative product solutions aligned with strategic business objectives, focusing on sustainability and cost-efficiency.

• Translate market research, customer insights, and emerging trends into tangible product concepts using advanced design tools.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure design feasibility, manufacturability, and alignment with business goals.

• Manage the end-to-end product development lifecycle from ideation through to prototype testing and documentation.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of R&D processes, presenting fresh ideas and insights quarterly to the expert centers team.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within Amcor's Consumer Packaging International (CPI) division, specifically within the R&D Innovation & Sustainability team. The primary focus is on developing new packaging designs that address sustainability, product innovation, and cost innovation, indicating a strong emphasis on circular economy principles and value creation. The role requires a blend of creative design, technical expertise, and an understanding of manufacturing processes.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Generate and ideate innovative product concepts, leveraging market research, customer feedback, and emerging industry trends in packaging technology.

• Develop detailed design specifications, technical drawings, sketches, and preliminary prototypes using CAD software and other relevant design tools.

• Collaborate closely with engineering, marketing, manufacturing, and R&D expert centers to ensure designs are feasible, cost-effective, and meet quality standards.

• Conduct rigorous product testing and analysis, iterating on designs based on performance data, feedback, and sustainability metrics.

• Manage multiple design projects concurrently, ensuring timely delivery, adherence to project timelines, and budget considerations.

• Continuously research and present the latest industry trends, technologies, and materials to the R&D Expert Centers team on a quarterly basis.

• Maintain comprehensive and organized documentation of all design processes, specifications, project progress, and testing results.

• Contribute actively to the R&D Innovation & Sustainability team's objectives, particularly in areas of sustainability, product innovation, and cost innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability, with a requirement to present new ideas quarterly. This suggests a proactive and forward-thinking approach to product development, going beyond standard design tasks to include strategic contribution and knowledge sharing within specialized R&D teams.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Industrial Design, Product Design, Engineering, or a closely related technical field.

Experience: Minimum of 3 years of progressive experience in product design and development, with a preference for experience within an R&D environment.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in CAD software such as SolidWorks, KeyShot, or similar industry-standard tools for 3D modeling and rendering.

• Strong understanding of materials science, manufacturing processes (e.g., injection molding, extrusion, thermoforming), and fundamental engineering principles relevant to packaging.

• Demonstrated ability in conceptualization, sketching, and creating detailed design specifications.

• Proven problem-solving skills with a keen eye for detail and accuracy in design execution.

• Ability to think creatively and generate innovative solutions to design challenges.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration within cross-functional teams.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in packaging design, particularly in consumer goods sectors (Healthcare, Homecare, Food, Beverage, Beauty, and Wellness).

• Familiarity with sustainability principles, circular economy concepts, and eco-friendly material alternatives in packaging.

• Experience with project management methodologies and tools.

• Knowledge of prototyping techniques and rapid iteration processes.

• Exposure to R&D environments and innovation frameworks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 3+ years of experience in an R&D environment suggests that candidates should be able to demonstrate a track record of contributions to new product development and innovation, not just execution of existing designs. Proficiency with specific CAD tools like SolidWorks and KeyShot is critical for the design and visualization aspects of this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of product design projects demonstrating conceptualization, detailed design, and technical problem-solving.

• Include case studies highlighting innovative solutions for sustainability challenges or cost reduction initiatives.

• Present clear documentation of design processes, including ideation, sketching, CAD modeling, prototyping, and testing phases.

Process Documentation:

• Illustrate workflow management for multiple concurrent projects, emphasizing organization and timely delivery.

• Document how feedback from cross-functional teams (engineering, marketing, manufacturing) was incorporated into design iterations.

• Provide examples of how market research and trend analysis informed design decisions and concept generation.

• Detail the process of product testing and how performance data was used to refine designs and ensure feasibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is paramount for this role. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their design process, the rationale behind their creative decisions, and the quantifiable impact of their work, particularly concerning sustainability and cost-efficiency. Demonstrating how they've translated complex requirements into innovative, manufacturable designs will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: £35,000 - £55,000 per annum, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Generous paid time off (PTO) and holiday leave.

• Company-sponsored pension scheme with employer contributions.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and attending industry conferences.

• Employee assistance program (EAP) offering confidential support services.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses and annual salary reviews.

• Access to Amcor's global network and resources.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week), with potential for flexibility based on project needs and team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: Based on the location (Norwich, UK), experience level (Mid-level, 3+ years), and the nature of an R&D Product Designer role in a global manufacturing company like Amcor, a salary range of £35,000 to £55,000 is estimated. This range reflects industry benchmarks for similar roles in the UK, considering the specialized skills in CAD, product design, and R&D. Benefits are typical for a large corporate organization.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Packaging & Containers, Consumer Goods Manufacturing. Amcor is a global leader in developing and producing responsible packaging for food, beverage, pharmaceutical, medical, home and personal care, and other products.

Company Size: Amcor is a large global corporation with over 45,000 employees worldwide (as of recent data), operating across more than 200 locations. This scale offers extensive resources and opportunities.

Founded: Amcor was founded in 1989, building on a legacy of packaging innovation. Its long history underscores stability and deep expertise in the industry.

Team Structure:

• The R&D Innovation & Sustainability team is a specialized unit within the Consumer Packaging International (CPI) division.

• It comprises experienced professionals focused on driving innovation and sustainability across various product lines and geographies.

• The role reports to a Development or Expert Center Manager or an Advance Innovation Manager, indicating a structured reporting hierarchy within R&D.

Methodology:

• Sustainability Focus: Implementing sustainable business practices, reducing environmental impact, and maximizing circularity.

• Product Innovation: Creating new and improved packaging designs to meet evolving customer needs.

• Cost Innovation: Driving value through cost reduction in production and delivery without compromising quality.

• Data-Driven Development: Utilizing market research, customer feedback, and performance data to inform design decisions.

Company Website: https://www.amcor.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Amcor's commitment to sustainability and innovation is central to its operations and culture. For an R&D Product Designer, this means working on forward-thinking projects that aim to reduce environmental impact and enhance product performance, aligning personal career goals with corporate responsibility. The global nature of Amcor provides exposure to diverse markets and challenges.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level R&D Product Designer, typically requiring 3-5 years of experience. It signifies a step beyond entry-level design roles, requiring a solid foundation in design principles, CAD proficiency, and an understanding of manufacturing. The role is expected to contribute independently to design projects and collaborate effectively with other departments.

Reporting Structure: The R&D Product Designer reports to a Development or Expert Center Manager or an Advance Innovation Manager. This structure suggests a focus on technical development, specialized expertise, and strategic innovation within the R&D function.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts Amcor's ability to innovate and remain competitive by developing new packaging solutions. Its contributions to sustainability and cost innovation are critical for market positioning, customer acquisition, and operational efficiency. Successful product designs can lead to increased market share, improved brand perception, and significant cost savings across the value chain.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific materials, manufacturing processes, or sustainable design principles within packaging.

• Project Leadership: Progress to leading design projects, managing timelines, and potentially mentoring junior designers.

• Cross-Functional Advancement: Move into roles with broader scope, such as Senior Product Designer, R&D Project Manager, or even into specialized areas like Sustainability or Market Intelligence within R&D.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on projects with international teams or potentially relocate to other Amcor R&D centers globally.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "R&D Product Designer" title and the reporting structure suggest a career path focused on technical expertise and innovation within product development. Growth opportunities will likely involve increasing responsibility for complex design challenges, leading projects, and contributing to strategic R&D initiatives.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Norwich, UK, and is specified as "Onsite." This indicates a traditional office and laboratory/workshop environment conducive to hands-on design, prototyping, and collaborative work.

Office Location(s): Norwich, England, United Kingdom. This location likely houses R&D facilities, laboratories, and office spaces for the Consumer Packaging International division.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires close interaction with engineering, marketing, and manufacturing teams, suggesting an open and collaborative workspace design.

• Tools and Technology: Access to advanced CAD workstations, potentially 3D printers for rapid prototyping, material testing equipment, and standard office infrastructure.

• Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and project reviews are anticipated, fostering a dynamic and interactive work atmosphere.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time working hours (estimated at 40 hours per week) are expected. While the role is onsite, there may be opportunities for some flexibility depending on project demands and Amcor's internal policies, though core hours will likely be required for team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Onsite" requirement is critical. It implies that hands-on work with materials, prototypes, and close collaboration with manufacturing and engineering teams is a necessary component of the role, which cannot be replicated remotely.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with role requirements.

• Technical Interview: Focus on design process, CAD skills, material knowledge, and problem-solving abilities. Expect questions about past projects and design challenges.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present a selection of their work, detailing their design process, rationale, challenges, and outcomes for specific projects. This is a crucial stage for demonstrating creativity, technical skill, and impact.

• Cross-functional Team Interview: Discussion with representatives from engineering, marketing, or manufacturing to assess collaboration skills and understanding of broader business objectives.

• Managerial Interview: Final interview with the reporting manager to discuss career aspirations, team fit, and overall suitability for the role and Amcor's culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best showcase your abilities in product design, innovation, and sustainability.

• Detail Your Process: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the problem statement, your design process (ideation, sketching, CAD, prototyping, testing), your design decisions, and the final outcome.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, highlight the impact of your designs – e.g., improvements in material usage, cost savings, enhanced functionality, or sustainability metrics.

• Showcase Technical Skills: Include high-quality visuals such as sketches, 3D renders, CAD models, and photos of prototypes or final products. Ensure technical drawings are clear and comprehensible.

• Tailor to Amcor: Emphasize projects that align with Amcor's focus on consumer packaging, innovation, and sustainability.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for hypothetical design challenges related to packaging solutions for specific products or sustainability goals.

• Practice articulating your thought process under pressure, focusing on problem definition, brainstorming potential solutions, and evaluating trade-offs.

• Understand Amcor's product portfolio and sustainability commitments to frame your responses.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio presentation is a critical component. Candidates should be ready to walk through their projects, explaining the "why" and "how" behind their design choices, demonstrating not just technical skill but also strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities relevant to Amcor's business.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in SolidWorks and KeyShot is explicitly required. Familiarity with other industry-standard CAD packages (e.g., CATIA, Fusion 360, Rhino) may be beneficial.

• 3D Modeling & Rendering: Expertise in creating detailed 3D models, assemblies, and high-quality renderings for visualization and presentation.

• Prototyping Technologies: Experience with 3D printing (FDM, SLA, SLS) and potentially other rapid prototyping methods relevant to packaging materials.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary function, the ability to interpret performance data from product testing and market research reports is essential.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this R&D role, but an understanding of how product design interfaces with supply chain, manufacturing, and sales systems could be a plus.

• Familiarity with project management software (e.g., Asana, Jira, Microsoft Project) for managing design tasks and timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on SolidWorks and KeyShot indicates a need for practical, hands-on design and visualization skills. Candidates should be ready to discuss their experience with these specific tools and how they've used them to bring product concepts to life.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: A drive to create new and improved products and processes, constantly seeking better solutions.

• Sustainability: A commitment to environmental responsibility, circular economy principles, and reducing the impact of packaging.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams across functions and geographies to achieve common goals.

• Excellence: Striving for high quality, precision, and efficiency in all aspects of product design and development.

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards and transparency in all business dealings and project execution.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Active participation in teams that include engineering, marketing, manufacturing, and R&D specialists.

• Feedback-Oriented: Openness to constructive criticism and a proactive approach to incorporating feedback from peers and stakeholders.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share insights, best practices, and new ideas with the R&D Expert Centers team and wider organization.

• Results-Driven: Focus on delivering tangible outcomes that contribute to business objectives, such as successful product launches, cost savings, or sustainability improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Amcor's stated values of innovation and sustainability are central. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they embody these values in their work and how they approach collaboration within a large, global organization.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing innovative design with manufacturing constraints, cost targets, and material limitations.

• Integrating complex sustainability requirements (e.g., recyclability, compostability, reduced material usage) into practical packaging designs.

• Managing diverse stakeholder expectations from different departments (marketing, sales, operations, R&D).

• Staying ahead of rapid technological advancements and evolving