Product R&D Lead

Information & Technology Management; Bintulu; On-site; MYR 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading energy company in Bintulu, Malaysia is seeking a Product R&D Lead to drive R&D testing for new GTL products and ensure compliance with quality standards. The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor's degree in a related field and at least 4 years of relevant experience, showcasing strong leadership and collaboration skills. The role offers opportunities for innovation in a dynamic work environment with competitive benefits.

Benefits

Flexible working

Competitive salary

Parental leave

Diversity and inclusion initiatives

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in the oil & gas or related industry.
• Membership in Institut Kimia Malaysia (IKM) or similar.
• Experience in product R&D, certification, and laboratory operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute R&D testing for new GTL products.
• Support product applications, specifications, and certifications.
• Develop capabilities in product R&D and innovation.

Skills

Leadership and coaching

Collaboration and communication

Problem-solving

Innovation

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, engineering, or related field

Job description

Reference ID R180528 Updated 08/13/2025

Production and Manufacturing Downstream

Malaysia

Bintulu

N/A

What’s The Role

The Product R&D Lead is integral to Shell MDS’ Vision 2028. You will lead the R&D team, support SMDS Product Innovation, and collaborate with other Extended Site Leadership Team members to drive the site to best-in-class performance as the world’s leading Gas-to-Liquids specialties facility.

You will be accountable for leading and executing R&D testing for new GTL products, supporting product applications, specifications, and certifications to ensure marketing deliveries meet quality and certification standards, including providing technical expertise and troubleshooting.

This role also involves leading the business strategy for GTL product innovation, R&D testing, and ensuring safety, effectiveness, and efficiency in all activities. You will develop capabilities in product R&D and innovation to accelerate bringing new products to market, maintaining a competitive edge.

What You’ll Be Doing

You will report to the Product Innovation & Technical Manager and be an individual contributor with significant collaborative roles.

Your Accountabilities Will Include

HSSE

• Support high HSSE performance through effective safety leadership and coaching of the Product R&D team and contractors.

Technical

• Lead an analyst executing product development, analysis, and testing to develop technical capabilities, aligning with business targets and standards like ISO17025, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and OHSAS 18001.
• Provide technical expertise for product development, troubleshooting, and deployment.
• Evaluate and implement new analytical technologies and test methods, managing related budgets and change processes.
• Ensure calibration and validation of test methods and equipment.
• Support routine and non-routine laboratory operations to maintain product quality assurance.
• Lead initiatives for product R&D, innovation, and technical activities at the Bintulu facility, including coordinating with various departments and monitoring progress.
• Support site governance and continuous delivery of innovations aligned with business goals.
• Assist in marketing activities, product launches, and technical presentations.
• Deliver high-impact tasks as directed, working closely with the Product R&D Manager.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Provide technical advice to raise competence in the product quality and laboratory teams.
• Maintain effective communication between marketing and manufacturing to facilitate R&D programs.

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, engineering, or related field with 4+ years of oil & gas or related industry experience.
• Membership in Institut Kimia Malaysia (IKM) or similar.
• Experience in product R&D, certification, laboratory operations, and technology management.
• Ability to lead innovation, simplify complex issues, and drive change.
• Strong collaboration, communication, and learning mindset. Leadership and coaching skills.
• Knowledge of HSSE management, analysis, problem-solving, process safety, and plant operations.
• Project management, supply chain, and production process knowledge.

What We Offer

Join Shell to work with talented, committed people on major global challenges. We offer opportunities for skill development, technology leadership, and a values-driven culture emphasizing honesty, integrity, and respect. Benefits include flexible working, competitive salary, parental leave, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and diverse career paths.

Shell aims to be one of the most diverse and inclusive companies in the world. Learn more about our efforts towards this goal.

Shell in Malaysia

Shell has been a key partner in Malaysia’s progress for over 130 years, contributing to the development of the energy sector and local communities, from onshore oil discovery to deepwater exploration. We operate a strong retail network and support Malaysia’s economic growth through various investments and initiatives.