The Watts Water Technologies family of companies designs and manufactures valves and drains and related products that promote the comfort and safety of people and the quality, conservation and control of water used in commercial, residential, industrial, and municipal applications. Everything we design is made to keep the Earth’s most precious resource safer, cleaner, and more useful for our customers.  
 
The Research & Technology Engineer/Scientist I is responsible for supporting the development of new-to-Watts, new-to-industry, and  new to world technologies through research, experimentation, and innovation activities. The role contributes to research projects by conducting technical investigations, laboratory testing, simulations, prototyping, technology scouting, and data analysis. Under the guidance of experienced researchers, the Engineer/Scientist I is expected to demonstrate strong curiosity, creativity, and inventiveness while helping evaluate, mature, and translate promising technologies into future product and business opportunities for Watts. Collaboration with internal stakeholders, universities, suppliers, start-ups, and other external partners is an important aspect of the position. 

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES: 

• Support research, technology development, and innovation projects under the guidance of senior researchers and engineering leadership. 

• Conduct literature reviews, patent searches, simulations, calculations, laboratory testing, data analysis, 3D modeling, and proof-of-concept prototype development using accepted engineering practices. 

• Apply engineering principles, scientific methods, and creative problem-solving to explore new concepts, technologies, and potential applications. 

• Assist in the execution of assigned research and technology initiatives, completing defined tasks and project deliverables with appropriate guidance. 

• Evaluate emerging technologies and contribute to assessments of their feasibility, value, and potential application within products, services, and operations. 

• Support the advancement of technologies through proof-of-concept, validation, and Technology Readiness Level (TRL) development activities. 

• Document research activities, test methods, results, observations, and conclusions in a clear, organized, and traceable manner. 

• Maintain project documentation, technical records, research files, and reports. 

• Contribute to technical reports, white papers, invention disclosures, presentations, and other research communications. 

• Participate in multidisciplinary project teams, providing technical input during reviews, discussions, and innovation activities. 

• Collaborate with product development teams and other stakeholders to communicate research findings and support technology adoption efforts. 

• Assist in educating and informing engineering and business teams on emerging technologies, research outcomes, and technical opportunities. 

• Support open innovation initiatives and collaborate with universities, suppliers, startups, research organizations, and other external partners. 

• Attend and participate in technical meetings, conferences, trade shows, innovation events, and industry activities to stay informed of emerging technologies and market trends. 

• Contribute ideas during technology reviews, brainstorming sessions, and innovation activities while helping assess technical viability and business impact. 

• Demonstrate curiosity, creativity, and initiative in identifying innovative solutions to technical challenges. 

• Participate in technical training, continuing education, and professional development activities to expand technical expertise and awareness of industry trends. 

• Adhere to all company, laboratory, safety, and departmental policies, procedures, and standards. 

• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned. 

Required Qualifications 

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, Material Science, or a related technical field required.  

• Advanced technical degree preferred. 

• Minimum of 1 year of engineering, research, laboratory, product development, or related technical experience. Relevant internship, co-op, graduate research, or academic project experience may be considered. 

• Working knowledge of engineering principles, scientific methods, and problem-solving techniques.  

• Ability to learn and apply concepts, practices, tools, and procedures within the assigned technical discipline.  

• Ability to identify key assumptions, technical risks, and critical validation needs for new concepts.  

• Demonstrated creativity, intellectual curiosity, and willingness to explore innovative solutions to technical problems.  

• Ability to conduct laboratory testing, analyze data, and communicate technical findings.  

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.  

• Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.  

• Ability to work collaboratively within cross-functional teams while seeking guidance appropriately.  

• Ability to manage assigned tasks and priorities with increasing independence.  

• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other standard engineering and data analysis tools. 

General Applicable Company Competencies  

• Commitment to Watts’ values of integrity, accountability, continuous improvement and innovation, and transparency. 

• Punctuality and dependability. 

• Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing work priorities and stressful conditions. 

• Adherence to all personnel policies, procedures, and standards of process as implemented by Watts. 

• Maintain productive and collaborative relationships with other Watts employees. 

• Adherence to Watts’ seven cultural beliefs: Growth Mindset, Customer-Focused Innovation, Constant Communication, Clear Goals, Collaborate Globally, Be Inclusive, and Take Action.  

Working Conditions:  

While performing the job duties, you will be working in an office environment. You will be required to work in the office at the North Andover, MA location three days per week (Monday – Wednesday) and can work remotely two days per week (Thursday and Friday). 

Physical Requirements: Specific physical abilities required for this position include, but are not limited to: 

• Ability to remain seated at a desk or workstation for extended periods. 

• Ability to perform repetitive tasks like typing on a keyboard or using a mouse for extended periods. 

• Ability to physically move around the office, organize or transport files, packages, or other office-related materials. 

• Ability to read documents, use a computer, and perform data entry tasks. 

• Ability to communicate clearly with management and coworkers, particularly in meetings or phone calls. 

• Ability to operate standard office equipment such as computers, printers, phones, and copiers. 

• Ability to occasionally lift and carry light objects, such as office supplies, documents, or small equipment. 

If applicable, use the Watts standard language: “The expected salary range for this position is $72,000-82,000 yearly. Actual compensation will be dependent upon individual skills, experience, qualifications, and applicable law.” 

Nothing in this job description restricts Watts’ right to assign or reassign duties, responsibilities, and working hours/conditions to this position at any time. This position is “at will,” which means that either the employee or Watts may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice, and for any lawful reason. 

#LI (Hybrid)