(Principal) Research Officer, Facilities Management, Centre for Strategic Projects & Operations

A*STAR - Agency for Science, Technology and Research; Singapore; On-site; SGD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research agency in Singapore seeks an experienced Deputy Director to oversee facilities management and operations across research and office environments. The role involves strategic planning, project oversight, and implementing sustainability initiatives. Candidates should have a Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Facilities Management or related fields and at least 10 years of relevant experience in managing large and complex facilities portfolios. Strong leadership and project management skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of experience in facilities management or estates operations.
• Experience leading large and complex facilities portfolios.
• Excellent people management and coaching skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning and development of infrastructure and facilities.
• Manage operational excellence in facilities operations.
• Drive sustainability and digital initiatives within facilities.

Skills

Leadership

Interpersonal skills

Problem-solving

Project management

Sustainability initiatives

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Facilities Management, Engineering, or related fields

Professional certifications (e.g., IFMA, PMP, Green Mark)

Job description

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and strategic leader to oversee the planning, development, and operations of facilities across our research and office environments. This role will play a key part in ensuring world‑class, sustainable, and future‑ready facilities that enable cutting‑edge scientific research. The Deputy Director will lead the facilities management team, drive transformation in building operations, and enhance the overall workplace experience for our research community.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Infrastructure Planning, Management and Transformation: Provide leadership in the long‑term planning and development of infrastructure and facilities to support organisational growth and evolving research needs. Develop plans, procedures, and conduct audits to ensure governance.
• Operational Excellence: Strategic sourcing of facilities‑related contracts, subject matter expert to provide technical support, oversee facilities operations, including building maintenance, energy management, and workplace services, ensuring safety, reliability, and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Facilities Management & Project Oversight: Oversee facilities‑related projects and capital asset renewal, including renovations, system upgrades, and infrastructure enhancement, ensuring delivery on‑time, within budget, and to quality standards. Monitor and analyse facilities performance data to inform planning and decision‑making.
• Sustainability, Green & Digital Initiatives: Champion and implement innovative practices in upgrades, operations and maintenance to create an optimal research and office environment.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Facilities Management, Engineering, or related fields.
• Professional certifications (e.g., IFMA, PMP, Green Mark, or equivalent) would be an advantage.
• At least 10 years of relevant experience in facilities management or estates operations, including leading large and complex facilities portfolios.
• In‑depth knowledge of building systems, utilities capacity planning, maintenance best practices, contract management in facilities operations.
• In‑depth knowledge in preventive maintenance planning, maintenance and repair execution, and capital asset replacement planning to ensure long‑term reliability and performance of facilities infrastructure.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills in business partnering and stakeholder management, working closely with internal users, leadership, and external service providers.
• Strong people management skills, with a track record of coaching, developing, and motivating teams to achieve operational excellence.
• Experience in management reporting, including the setting and tracking of operational metrics to drive continuous improvement and accountability.
• Demonstrated success in driving sustainability initiatives, workplace transformation, and process efficiency improvements.
• Strategic thinker with strong problem‑solving skills and hands‑on execution ability.