Lead Materials Scientist / Engineer

Singapore Polytechnic; Singapore; On-site; SGD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Singapore Polytechnic is seeking a Lead Materials Scientist/Engineer to drive innovation in sustainable construction materials. The role involves managing projects in coating formulation, mentoring interns, and collaborating with industry partners. Candidates should have a relevant degree and substantial experience in building coatings and recycling technologies.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in building coating formulation and solid waste recycling.
• Solid knowledge of antimicrobial coating evaluation and formulation scale-up processes.
• Strong understanding of local building codes and construction regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage innovation projects in coating formulation for building applications.
• Oversee end-to-end product development and provide technical consultation.
• Develop and deliver training programmes in construction chemicals.

Skills

Project Management

Stakeholder Engagement

Communication Skills

Innovation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science or related field

Job description

[What the role is]

Most Positive Workplace Collaboration Award - Singapore International Chamber of Commerce Awards 2025

Top 20 most attractive employers in Singapore - The Straits Times Singapore's Best Employers 2024 & 2025

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Lead Materials Scientist/Engineer to join our innovative team. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in delivering high-impact consultancy and R&D services to the construction industry, with a strong focus on Specialty Chemicals (particularly functional coatings for building applications) and Sustainability (chemical processes for solid waste recycling).

As a key technical expert, you will spearhead innovation projects in collaboration with local built environment (BE) enterprises, drive product development, and contribute to capability building through training and mentorship.

[What you will be working on]

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage innovation projects in coating formulation for interior and exterior building applications, including:
• Antimicrobial coatings
• Surface protection and restoration solutions
• Chemical processes for solid waste treatment and recycling
• Oversee end-to-end product development, including:
• Requirements gathering and technical specification
• Formulation design and laboratory testing
• On-site application supervision and performance evaluation
• Technical consultation and advisory services for clients
• Develop and deliver professional training programmes in construction chemicals and materials technology
• Mentor interns and supervise student R&D projects
• Collaborate with academic staff and industry partners on joint innovation projects
  
  

[What we are looking for]

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Coating or Surface Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Construction Materials, or any related discipline from a reputable university
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in building coating formulation and/or solid waste recycling
• Solid knowledge of antimicrobial coating evaluation and formulation scale-up processes
• Familiarity with:
• Green Mark Certification
• Singapore Green Labelling Scheme
• Green Product Certification
• Strong understanding of local building codes and construction regulations
• Proven experience in waste recycling technologies and sustainable materials development
• Demonstrated success in product development within the built environment sector
• Strong project management and stakeholder engagement skills
• Self-motivated, independent, and a collaborative team player
• Excellent communication skills—both written and verbal
• A passion for innovation and a drive to deliver impactful technology solutions to the built environment industry
  
  

Join us in shaping the future of sustainable and high-performance construction materials. If you are passionate about innovation, thrive in multidisciplinary environments, and are ready to make a real-world impact—we’d love to hear from you.

Successful applicant will be offered a 2-year contract in the first instance.

Closing Date: 3 June 2025

If you are shortlisted for the position, you should hear from us within 30 days of the closing date of the advertisement.