R&D Manager

Agile Consultants; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction materials company seeks an experienced R&D Manager to oversee research and development operations. This role involves leading R&D projects to deliver innovative and market-ready products, supporting production processes, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of experience in R&D, a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related fields, and a strong background in polymer chemistry and insulation materials. Effective communication and team management skills are crucial.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in R&D, preferably in building materials or HVAC sectors.
• In-depth knowledge of polymer chemistry, including XLPE and NBR formulations.
• Experience with thermal/acoustic insulation materials, particularly HVAC.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D projects and implement strategies to meet goals.
• Conduct lab-scale research and transition to pilot production.
• Collaborate with production to resolve technical issues.

Skills

Polymer chemistry expertise

Team management

Communication skills

Proficiency in chemical testing

Understanding of environmental safety regulations

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, or Industrial Engineering

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Job description

Job Code: 230/001/879

Industry: Manufacturing - Insulation / Chemicals

Job Brief

The R&D Manager will oversee research and development operations including testing, analysis, and product development. The role involves leading R&D projects, coordinating with production and quality teams, and ensuring the development of innovative, compliant, and market-ready products.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead R&D projects, develop and implement R&D strategies, and monitor progress to meet development goals.
• Conduct lab-scale research and transition to pilot and commercial-scale production.
• Collaborate with the production team to certify raw materials, guide pilot testing, and resolve technical issues.
• Manage and prioritize multiple projects efficiently and complete tasks independently.
• Draft and maintain documentation for CE marking and conformity certifications.
• Develop new products and recipes based on market trends and customer needs.
• Improve and enhance existing products based on customer feedback.
• Coordinate with other departments for nomenclature improvements.
• Summarize and present experimental results clearly.
• Test and release raw materials and finished products as required.
• Maintain accurate project documentation and contribute to innovation processes.
• Communicate with international test houses, certification bodies, and marketing teams.
• Ensure compliance with the company's safety regulations and protocols.
• Interact with global site QC and R&D teams to address their requirements as part of a centralized R&D function.
• Maintain the global R&D center, ensuring regular calibration and efficient operation of testing equipment, and support sustainable work processes.

Job Requirements

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in R&D, preferably within the building materials, HVAC, or polymer insulation sectors.
• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, or Industrial Engineering.
• In-depth knowledge of polymer chemistry, including cross-linked polyolefin (XLPE) and nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) formulations.
• Proficiency in handling and testing chemicals, with a strong understanding of polymer morphology.
• Experience with thermal and acoustic insulation materials, particularly in HVAC applications.
• Familiarity with international standards and certifications relevant to insulation products (e.g., CE marking, FM approval).
• Demonstrated experience in preparing and maintaining documentation for product conformity certifications.
• Knowledge of environmental and safety regulations pertaining to chemical handling and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to interact effectively with global QC and R&D teams, serving as a central point of contact.
• Proficiency in using laboratory equipment and maintaining calibration schedules.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe and compliant work environment.
• Strong team management skills.
• Experience in prototype simulation field studies.
• Familiarity with certification documentation and 3rd-party audits.
• Effective communication with global teams; accent neutralization preferred