R&D Project Lead

Solarge R&D Project Lead 15 juli 2026 Vacancy: R&D Project Lead Weert, The Netherlands | Full-time (40 hours per week) About Solarge Solarge is an innovative scale-up focused on the development and manufacturing of sustainable, lightweight solar energy solutions. Our technology enables solar panels that are not only more sustainable and circular, but also suitable for applications where traditional panels are too heavy. Our mission is to accelerate the energy transition by making solar energy more accessible, efficient, and environmentally responsible. We combine advanced materials, scalable manufacturing processes, and a strong commitment to sustainability to create next-generations solar solutions. At Solarge, you will join an ambitious and hands-on team where innovation, entrepreneurship, and impact go hand in hand. About the role We are looking for a hands-on and driven R&D Project Lead to join our growing Research & Development team. In this role, you will play a key role in the development and industrialization of Solarge's technology. You will lead R&D projects from concept through validation and contribute directly to the optimization of our products and manufacturing processes. Working closely with the R&D Manager, you will operate with a high degree of independence in a dynamic environment where initiative and ownership are highly valued. Key responsibilities R&D Project Execution • Lead and execute R&D projects from concept through validation • Design and run experiments (DOE) to develop and optimize materials and processes • Analyze experimental data, draw conclusions, and translate findings into actionable recommendations • Manage project timelines, deliverables, and reporting Process Development & Optimization • Develop, validate, and optimize manufacturing processes for new and existing products • Define, monitor, and improve key process parameters and performance metrics • Create and maintain process documentation, including work instructions and standard operating procedures • Support continuous improvement initiatives within the R&D and manufacturing workflow Product Qualification & Certification • Contribute to product qualification activities, including reliability testing and material evaluation • Coordinate testing activities with external laboratories and certification bodies • Support certification documentation and regulatory compliance efforts Collaboration & Stakeholder Management • Work closely with Quality, Productions and Engineering teams • Collaborate with external suppliers, technology partners, and research institutes • Contribute to subsidy and funding applications, including WBSO, TKI, and Horizon Europe programs What you bring Required Qualifications • MSc degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical discipline • Minimum of 3 years of experience in process development, R&D, or manufacturing engineering • Experience in photovoltaics, thin-film technologies, or related industries such as semiconductors, composites, or coatings • Hands-on experience with Design of Experiments (DOE), process validation, and data analysis • Proven ability to independently lead technical projects from initiation to completion • Strong written and verbal communication skills in English • A practical, solution-oriented mindset with a focus on results Nice-to-have • Knowledge of IEC certification standards or other product safety certification processes • Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies • Familiarity with R&D funding and subsidy programs such as WBSO, TKI, or Horizon Europe • PhD in a relevant technical field (considered ad advantage, not a requirement) Who you are We are looking for someone who is: • Autonomous and proactive - takes ownership of problems without waiting for instructions • Comfortable operating in a small company where roles overlap and flexibility is essential • Brings structure to work without creating unnecessary bureaucracy • Effective communicator who can collaborate across disciplines • Industry-minded - has worked in environments where results are measured by products, not papers What we offer • The opportunity to contribute directly to the energy transition through innovative solar technology • A key position within a fast-growing and ambitious scale-up • A high level of autonomy, responsibility and influence • A collaborative, informal, and entrepreneurial work environment • Competitive salary and attractive secondary benefits • The chance to work with cutting-edge materials and manufacturing technologies that are shaping the future of solar energy • Salary range: €5,000-€7,000 per month Ready to make an impact on the energy transition? R&D Project Lead Neem gerust contact op. De nieuwe norm in toekomstbestendige zonne-energie.