Research Engineer, Research & Innovation (R&I)

At AFA, innovation is at the heart of everything we do. As a Research Engineer within our Research & Innovation (R&I) team, you will be the innovation instigator, by finding new opportunities to bring novelty into dispensing systems, through different prisms such as technology, science, sustainability, user experience and business insight. 

You will have a key role to play in generating, exploring and implementing ideas up to a feasible, functional, sustainable, desirable and viable level. In this role, you will be part of a multi-disciplinary team with researchers, mechanical and quality engineers, a designer and a product manager. You will also collaborate with outer partners, such as research labs, experts and technology suppliers. 

You will report directly to the Head of Product Innovation and operate as part of AFA’s global R&I organization, bridging creativity into science and science into technology. 

Key responsibilities 

• Research driven approach to idea generation and development, analysis of patents, scientific content, business reviews, market insights and user experience. 

• Project performance exploration and validation.

• Design and execution of experiments.

• Product benchmark and competitor analysis – technology, performance, usage.

• Create structured reporting with project scope, timeline, risk analysis, in collaboration with the project manager .

Your Profile 

• Bachelor, master degree or PhD in engineering, material science, packaging, innovation or other relatable field. 

• Experience in personal care, packaging, or consumer goods industry is a plus. 

•  Creative thinker with business driven mindset and scientific curiosity towards projects. 

•  Strong communicator who enjoys collaborating with diverse teams with different backgrounds and cultures. 

• Hands-on and proactive.  

• Strong analytical and collaborative skills. 

• Fluent in English (written and spoken). 

• Willingness to travel occasionally to global AFA locations. 

What do we offer?

• Creative Impact: Work on innovative product and technology concepts that shape AFA’s future portfolio.
• Collaboration Across Disciplines: Engage with engineers, designers, scientists, and business professionals in a dynamic environment.
• Inspiring Location: Based in the creative and tech-driven Strijp-T district in Eindhoven — a hub for design and innovation.
• Attractive Compensation: Competitive salary with a performance-based bonus.
• Tools & Flexibility: Company laptop and mobile phone, plus flexibility to work from different locations.
• Contract Stability: One-year contract with the intention of permanent employment after proven performance.
• Time to Recharge: 30 vacation days (based on a 40-hour workweek).
• Pension Plan: AFA contributes 40% toward your pension premium.
• Learning & Growth: Continuous opportunities for professional development and training.
• Inclusive Culture: Work in an international, open, and inspiring team where creativity, courage, and collaboration define success.

Why Join AFA Dispensing?

You’ll join an international, innovation-driven organization that values teamwork, reliability, and growth. If you’re interested, please send your CV and motivation to [email protected], attention to Gertia Haerkens, International Recruiter. We look forward to hearing from you!