Enter a job title or keyword

R&D Team leadManager, Gunsan

Sika AG


Job Location:

Gunsan-si - South Korea

Monthly Salary: Not provided by the employer
Posted: 30 June 2026 (30+ days ago)
Application Deadline: 27 September 2026
Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

**Research & Development**

  1. Lead development of innovative automotive adhesives and industrial/construction products with focus on formulation optimization and cost competitiveness.
  2. Design and execute laboratory experiments DOE studies and product validation plans; scale formulations to pilot and commercial production.
  3. Evaluate raw materials and identify alternative suppliers to improve performance and supply security.
  4. Support customer projects through technical discussions sample preparation application testing and troubleshooting.
  5. Maintain technical documentation including formulations technical reports specifications and test methods.
  6. Monitor industry trends competitor technologies and emerging materials to support innovation.

**Quality Control & Quality Assurance**

  1. Establish and maintain quality control systems for raw materials in-process products and finished goods; develop and optimize QC testing methods and acceptance criteria.
  2. Investigate customer complaints and quality issues using structured root cause analysis (8D Fishbone 5 Why); implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
  3. Support ISO quality management systems and internal/external audits; monitor quality KPIs and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

**Manufacturing & Process Support**

  1. Provide technical support to manufacturing for troubleshooting process optimization and production efficiency improvements.
  2. Support new product scale-up process validation and technology transfer from R&D to production; collaborate with Operations to improve consistency and reduce waste.

**Customer & Business Support**

  1. Provide technical presentations and training to customers distributors and internal teams.
  2. Support customer qualification field trials and product approvals; work with Sales and Marketing to identify market opportunities.

**Team Leadership**

  1. Lead and develop the R&D and QC team through coaching mentoring and performance management; allocate resources effectively for timely project execution.
  2. Foster a culture of innovation collaboration quality and safety; promote laboratory best practices and ensure EHS compliance.

Qualifications :

Requirements

  1. Master or Doctoral degree in Polymer Science Chemistry Chemical Engineering Materials Science or a related discipline.
  2. 10 years of experience in adhesive product development preferably in automotive or industrial adhesives.
  3. At least 3 years of people management experience in R&D or Quality.
  4. Automotive textile lamination packaging or industrial adhesive experience is preferred.
  5. Strong awareness of EHS standards and commitment to safety compliance.
  6. Strong knowledge of:
  • Polyurethane dispersion (PUD) technology
  • Polymer chemistry and formulation development
  • Adhesive application and testing methods
  • Experience with analytical instruments and laboratory testing.
  • Knowledge of Design of Experiments (DOE) Statistical Process Control (SPC) and quality tools.
  • Familiarity with ISO 9001 IATF 16949 and EHS requirements is an advantage.

 

SOFT SKILLS

  • Innovation and problem-solving
  • Strong technical leadership
  • Project management
  • Customer orientation
  • Cross-functional collaboration
  • Continuous improvement mindset
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills
  • Fluent in English

Additional Information :

The R&D Manager is responsible for leading the development optimization and quality management of mainly automotive adhesives (i.e. PUD adhesives coating etc) and some construction products (i.e. flooring etc). This role ensures that products meet customer requirements industry standards and regulatory compliance while driving innovation manufacturing excellence and continuous improvement. The position works closely with Sales Production Supply Chain and customers to support business growth and operational excellence.

We offer competitive salaries aligned with local market benchmarks and the specific scope and responsibilities of each role. Compensation is determined based skills relevant to the position education and/or training.  We are committed to fair and equitable pay practices in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.


Remote Work :

No


Employment Type :

Full-time


About Company

Company Logo

With more than 100 years of experience, Sika is a worldwide innovation and sustainability leader in the development and production of systems and products for commercial and residential construction, as well as the transportation, marine, automotive, and renewable energy manufacturing ... View more

View Profile View Profile