Modelling the competences of research and development employees in high-tech companies

Purpose The purpose of the article is to construct a competency model for R&D employees in advanced-technology enterprises. Design/methodology/approach The empirical research was quantitative. The unit of analysis comprised 82 R&D employees operating within advanced-technology enterprises headquartered in the Silesian Voivodeship. Data collected via CATI/CAWI were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis and structural equation modelling (SEM) to estimate the impact of individual KSA components on the overall competency model of R&D employees in advanced-technology enterprises. Findings SEM analysis confirmed that the competency profile is significantly constituted by all three KSA components. Knowledge emerged as the strongest determinant, followed by skills, while Attitudes showed the weakest, though still significant, influence. Specific domain knowledge and analytical skills were identified as the core pillars of professionalism in the R&D sector. Research limitations/implications SEM analysis showed that the competency model is significantly composed of knowledge, skills and attitudes, but their relative importance depends on the organisational role. Originality/value Although many studies address employee competencies, relatively few focus on R&D personnel in advanced-technology enterprises. This article helps fill that gap. The findings on competency models can serve employers in the surveyed sector as a valuable information source for effective competency management of their R&D workforce.