R&D Manager: Pune

Title              :   R&D Manager

Department:    R&D

Location      :    Pune, Maharashtra

Reports To :      R&D Head

Company Profile

Sika is a specialty chemicals company with a globally leading position in the development and production of systems and products for bonding, sealing, damping, reinforcing, and protection in the building sector and automotive industry. Sika has subsidiaries in 103 countries around the world and, in over 400 factories, produces innovative technologies for customers worldwide. In doing so, it plays a crucial role in enabling the transformation of the construction and vehicle industries toward greater environmental compatibility. With more than 33,000 employees, the company generated sales of CHF 11.2 billion in 2023.

Overview

This position will be responsible to develop new formulation based on local requirements / adapt Sika formulation for local manufacturing in accordance with PCP procedures, assisting in the scale up from Laboratory scale to full production, optimizing of production efficiency, developing test methods, quality control criteria and manufacturing instructions for chemicals, adhesives & sealants.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead product development projects crucial to the business and identify opportunities for new technologies (I.e. E-mobility), products or performance improvements.
• Set up laboratory equipment and instrumentation needed for tests with minimal supervision.
• Designing and executing laboratory/application testing for Automotive & Industry projects according to Sika’s standard procedures.
• Document the results of the tests in form of a test report in a very professional matter.
• Assist in the scale up from laboratory scale to full production.
• Place order to Test Centre and other internal or external units for specific tests.
• Manage the projects as per Sika PCP guidelines.
• Recognise irregularities, product problems, etc and communicate it properly.
• Consult with the Senior Technical and R&D Colleagues regarding lab projects/activity and provide appropriate follow-up.

• Education:

Master or PhD degree in Chemistry, Polymer, Materials Science or Engineering related fields.

• Experience: Minimum of 10 years’ experience in R&D, Application Test, customer support, technical service in relevant market field of Specialty Chemicals, Adhesives  and Sealants (Preferably Polyurethane / SMP / Epoxy / Dispersions).

Skills:

• Strong technical background in chemistry, including polymer chemistry, organic chemistry and material science.
• Hands on experience in product development of adhesive, sealants and coatings.
• Strong collaborator and team player.
• Good communication in english.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong background in Project Management.

Knowledge:

• Proficient in MS Office, DoE, etc.
• Methodical and accurate documentation.
• Ability to meet deadlines in a timely manner.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.