Job Description

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 industry. Sika has subsidiaries in 103 countries around the world, produces in over 400 factories, and develops innovative technologies for customers worldwide. In doing so, it plays a crucial role in enabling the transformation of the construction and transportation industries toward greater environmental compatibility. In 2024, Sika’s around 33,000 employees generated annual sales of CHF 11.76 billion.

Job Description

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and innovative R&D Chemist/R&D Project Manager to develop and optimize liquid-applied waterproofing membranes for the construction industry. We encourage applications from diverse scientists who are passionate about material science and eager to make an impact in sustainable waterproofing solutions. The candidate will be responsible for formulating, testing, and improving waterproofing coatings, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and supporting the scale-up of new formulations for production. This position open for both natives and foreigners who masters Japanese language. While English skills should be ideally at least on intermediate level.

Main function/responsibility/competencies

• Research and Development: Lead the design, planning, and execution of R&D projects focused on liquid-applied waterproofing membranes (polyurethane, acrylic, hybrid systems). This includes exploring novel formulations, materials, and manufacturing processes to improve product performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Testing & Analysis: Conduct laboratory testing (mechanical, chemical, thermal, and water resistance) to evaluate the performance of formulations.
• Raw Material Evaluation: Research and assess raw materials, additives, and polymer technologies to optimize product properties and cost efficiency.
• Process Optimization: Improve manufacturing processes for consistency, performance, and production efficiency.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with international and regional standards.
• Technical Support: Collaborate with production, quality control, and sales teams to resolve technical issues and support product application in the field. Provide technical expertise and support to internal teams, customers, and external partners. Offer guidance on product selection, application techniques, troubleshooting, and quality assurance.
• Innovation & Sustainability: Explore sustainable and eco-friendly material alternatives to align with environmental regulations. Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitive developments. Proactively identify opportunities for innovation and differentiation and drive the development of new products or enhancements to maintain our competitive edge.

Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate records of R&D activities, experimental data, and project milestones. Prepare comprehensive reports, technical documents, and presentations to communicate findings, recommendations, and progress updates to stakeholders at all levels

Qualifications

Qualifications

Required:

• Education: Bachelor’s/Master’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience: 3-5 years in R&D for waterproofing coatings, adhesives, sealants, or protective coatings preferred.
• Technical Skills: Expertise in polymer chemistry, emulsions, and rheology.
• Hands-on experience with formulating liquid-applied waterproofing membranes (PU, acrylic, or hybrid).
• Knowledge of testing methods (tensile strength, elongation, adhesion, permeability, and UV resistance).
• Understanding of manufacturing processes (dispersion, curing, mixing, and application methods).
• Experience with analytical instruments (FTIR, DSC, TGA, Rheometer, etc.).
• Soft Skills: Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, ability to work independently and in a team, excellent communication skills.

Preferred (but not required – we encourage all to apply!):

• Familiarity with solvent-based, water-based, and reactive resin systems.
• Experience with construction chemicals, protective coatings, or industrial waterproofing solutions.
• Knowledge of green chemistry and sustainable material alternatives.
• Prior involvement in patent development and innovation.

We at Sika are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive workplace and encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply - even if you don’t meet 100% of the criteria!

Additional Information

Reporting line:

• Innovation & Sustainability / Head of Coating Systems

This role will closely work with:

• Teams of Operations, Target market, Technical service and Sales.
• Other teams of Innovation & Sustainability (from Sika Japan or from other sister companies).
• Customers and Applicators.

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