Technical Manager – Industry

About the role

Sika Australia is seeking a Technical Manager to lead technical services and laboratory operations for its Industry division. The role combines technical leadership, customer support, and commercial enablement to drive product performance and market success.

Key responsibilities

• Define and execute the technical services strategy aligned with industry market objectives.
• Oversee laboratory testing, substrate compatibility, durability testing, and equipment/robotic simulations.
• Provide expert on‑site technical support, lead customer trials, mock‑ups, plant audits and production‑line validations.
• Conduct rapid root‑cause analysis, troubleshooting and corrective actions for application challenges.
• Partner with Sales, BDMs and R&D to translate technical expertise into commercial specifications and manage product validation documentation, including PPAP.
• Prioritise lab projects, allocate resources and collaborate with regional and global technical networks.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years progressive experience in technical service, application engineering or R&D within specialty chemicals, adhesives or sealants.
• Proven experience leading technical teams, lab operations and cross‑functional projects.
• Excellent consultative presentation, stakeholder‑facing and troubleshooting skills with willingness to travel.

Required skills

• Laboratory testing and durability evaluation.
• Adhesive and sealant application technologies (polyurethane, silicone, epoxy, acrylics, SMP/MS polymers).
• Substrate compatibility and structural bonding knowledge.
• Root‑cause analysis and corrective action implementation.
• Product validation processes, including PPAP for automotive/industrial accounts.

What we offer

• Competitive salary package.
• Supportive working environment with strong company culture.
• Training and development opportunities.
• Equal Employment Opportunity and diversity commitment.