About the Role
Proforce Limited, a global leader in defense solutions and armoured vehicle manufacturing, is seeking a strategic and innovative Research & Development Manager. Based at our advanced facility in Ode Remo, Ogun State, you will spearhead our engineering design, product development, and technical research teams. This critical leadership role drives product innovation, advanced vehicle architecture, ballistic protection integration, and continuous technical improvement across our comprehensive tactical and commercial vehicle lines. If you are passionate about defense technology and cutting-edge engineering, we invite you to join our dynamic team.
Key Responsibilities- Conceptualize and execute the company R&D strategy, driving vehicle design innovation and advanced military mobility solutions.
- Lead end-to-end design, modeling, prototyping, and testing of new vehicle platforms, armor systems, and mechanical sub-assemblies.
- Supervise CAD design engineers, mechanical designers, stress analysts, and prototype technicians to deliver manufacturable designs.
- Oversee Finite Element Analysis, blast simulation, field testing, and performance validation to meet international military and automotive standards.
- Investigate advanced lightweight metals, composite armor materials, and modern automotive technology to enhance vehicle capabilities.
- Collaborate with production and quality control teams to ensure seamless transition from concept to full-scale manufacturing.
- Manage R&D project timelines, budgets, technical documentation, design patents, and intellectual property portfolios.
- B.Sc, HND, or Master's/Ph.D in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Mechatronics, Metallurgy, or a related discipline.
- Minimum of 6 to 10 years of progressive engineering experience, with at least 3 years in a managerial or lead research role.
- In-depth expertise in automotive systems engineering, chassis dynamics, powertrain integration, and CAD/CAM software.
- Advanced understanding of ballistic material behavior, blast mitigation structures, and protection standards like NIJ, VPAM, and STANAG 4569.
- Proven proficiency in CAE and simulation tools such as ANSYS and Abaqus for structural and impact stress analysis.
- Strong technical leadership, complex problem-solving, project management, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- Competitive salary package commensurate with industry standards.
- Opportunities for professional growth and leadership in the defense manufacturing sector.
- Health insurance and other comprehensive employee welfare benefits.
- Collaborative work environment utilizing state-of-the-art engineering and manufacturing technology.