Circular Economy Researcher

Who we are?

Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) is a leading Research and Technology Organisation providing a portfolio of operations research, training, and consultancy services to Industry across the following four thematic pillars: Digitisation, Sustainable Manufacturing, Design for Manufacturing, and Robotics and Automation. As a leading manufacturing Research & Technology Organisation (RTO) with labs and industrial pilot lines in Dublin and Mullingar, IMR works with leading global and indigenous brands to demystify and derisk new and emerging technologies and to deliver high-impact collaborative research and services to enable advanced manufacturing for a broad range of clients across Ireland’s manufacturing network.

What IMR offers:

• An opportunity to contribute to the national economic growth agenda
• A competitive salary and pension
• A friendly and flexible working environment with State-of-the-art Innovation Centres
• Lots of diversity in terms of people, technology, projects and ideas
• The opportunity to join a dynamic and committed team
• Interaction with a diverse range of industrial clients and state partners
• 5 weeks holidays

The Role:

Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) is seeking motivated and self-driven graduates who want to join our Circular Economy Innovation team to support the delivery of cross-sectoral circular economy Research, Development & Innovation (RD&I) projects. As a Circular Economy Researcher the successful candidates will support the technical delivery of industry-oriented circular economy research and innovation projects in high-impact sectors from construction to electronics to agri-food and drinks to packaging and everything in between. If you are a digital savvy graduate with a passion for driving industry-oriented sustainability - this early-career role may be of great interest to you.

Key Responsibilities:

The Circular Economy Researcher roles are expected to evolve over time based on the project portfolio in execution and will encompass a variety of the following duties:

• Contributing to the delivery of circular economy research in key sectors of the Irish economy – including survey design, interviews, focus groups and technical pilot design and implementation.
• Supporting the technical delivery of circular register of opportunities and impactful circular economy action plans for cross-sectoral industrial clients (e.g. preparation for client site visits, development of clear and compelling presentations) leveraging advanced technologies and RD&I.
• Providing administrative, stakeholder engagement and reporting support associated with the delivery of cross-sectoral circularity acceleration activities and cascade funds.
• Developing and disseminating insightful case studies which bring to life the economic, environmental, and social benefits from adopting circular practices to inspire industry replication.
• Contributing to the design and delivery of high calibre desktop reviews, synthesis reports and blogs highlighting cutting edge circular economy implementation – both sectoral deep-dives and cross-sectoral comparative analysis.
• Supporting the maintenance and evolution of existing circular economy capacity building toolkits and best practice (online) knowledge libraries.
• Undertaking administration duties which include but are not limited to supporting the development of standard operating procedures, creating purchase orders, contributing to monthly, quarterly and annual reporting and workflow administration associated with the role.

Required Skills and Experience:

• Degree-level qualification in Business, Engineering, Environmental Science, Communications or similar discipline (although strong experience and skillset is most important).
• 1-2 years’ experience working in research, consulting or knowledge transfer preferably with some sustainability experience.
• Knowledge of key trends, advanced technologies, manufacturing and industry-oriented innovation in circular economy and sustainability – particularly in high-impact sectors.
• A can-do attitude with the ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and collaborate effectively with team and cross-functional colleagues while maintaining attention to detail.
• Strong analytical & communication skills required - attention to detail and ability to communicate – both written and orally.
• Awareness of design thinking and user experience (UX) particularly industry requirements for knowledge assets to be utilised/useful.
• Fluent English.
• Driving license desirable.

Location:

IMR offices are located in Rathcoole, Co Dublin and Mullingar, Co Westmeath. This position is based in our Rathcoole office. We offer a hybrid working model. Travel between offices and client sites will be required from time to time.

Salary & Benefits:  

This position will command a package consisting of basic salary (€33,791 - €37,725 depending on qualifications and experience), employer pension contribution and 5 weeks holidays.

Closing Date:

All applicants must include an up-to-date version of their CV with their application. Electronic applicants only via LinkedIn or to [email protected]

Closing date for receipt of all applications is 12 noon Tuesday, 19th May 2026. Interviews are expected to take place week commencing 25th May 2026.

IMR is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We actively promote equity and equal opportunity in all aspects of employment and welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities. We do not discriminate based on age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. We strive to ensure our recruitment processes are fair, accessible, and free from bias.