Chemist – Coating Systems

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 & Experience

Required:

• Education: Bachelors/Masters 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 dont 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.

Remote Work :

No

Employment Type :

Full-time