Research & Development [R&D] Manager and Lead Chemist

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EarthEnable Uganda is hiring a Research & Development [R&D] Manager and Lead Chemist

with expertise in chemistry or chemical engineering to lead our research in sustainable construction materials and eco-friendly coatings. This role blends strategic leadership of large-scale research projects with hands-on laboratory experimentation in areas like drying agents, catalysts, binders, paints, and sustainable construction alternatives.

The ideal candidate is a project manager and a passionate chemist who thrives in the lab, understands materials at a molecular level, and can innovate greener, durable, and affordable solutions for low-income housing. From optimizing catalysts to rethinking paint formulations and pioneering natural binders, the R&D Manager will drive EarthEnable’s sustainable construction innovation in Uganda while collaborating globally with teams in Rwanda and Kenya to ensure knowledge transfer and efficient product development.

The R&D Manager will design, pilot, and analyze experiments, translating insights into actionable solutions for senior management and operational teams. This role demands hands-on material expertise, strong people management, and exceptional organizational skills.

Reports to

: Chief Technology Officer or Product Integration Manager

Location

: Mbarara, Uganda – with significant time in rural villages

Responsibilities

Strategic R&D Leadership

Develop Uganda’s R&D strategy aligned with EarthEnable and global R&D goals.

Identify new research areas (e.g., eco-friendly coatings, natural additives, faster curing methods) based on market trends, client feedback, and operational challenges.

Prioritize projects, allocate resources, and set science-backed objectives and timelines.

Chemical & Materials Innovation

Design and supervise lab experiments in coatings, plasters, and flooring technologies.

Innovate with catalysts, oils, and binders to optimize durability, drying time, and environmental impact.

Stay updated on chemical engineering advances and apply best practices to lab and field pilots.

Team Management & Development

Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary R&D team (chemists, engineers, officers, interns).

Foster creativity, experimentation, and rigorous documentation.

Support team members’ professional development and technical expertise growth.

Experimentation & Piloting Oversight

Ensure experiments are scientifically rigorous and operationally feasible.

Oversee district pilots, ensuring accurate execution, monitoring, and documentation.

Translate lab learnings into practical, field-ready solutions.

Collaboration & Knowledge Sharing

Address district challenges with timely investigations and solutions.

Partner with district and construction teams to integrate R&D outputs.

Develop SOPs and training materials for consistent application of solutions.

Present findings to senior leadership to shape company strategy.

Collaborate weekly with global R&D teams in Rwanda and Kenya for knowledge transfer.

Data Analysis & Reporting

Ensure accurate data collection, analysis, and interpretation of R&D results.

Maintain an organized repository of experimental results (successes and failures) for institutional learning.

Track metrics to evaluate R&D’s impact on product performance, durability, sustainability, and efficiency.

Required Qualifications & Key Capabilities

Education

: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field like Civil Engineering (advanced degree strongly preferred).

Expertise

: Strong knowledge of chemical formulations and a proven track record in leading R&D or product development projects from concept to implementation.

Innovation

: Ability to translate lab results into field-ready applications.

Leadership

: Excellent skills in leading and mentoring technical teams.

Analytical Skills

: Strong attention to detail in designing, documenting, and analyzing experiments, with the ability to translate findings into actionable recommendations.

Hands-On

: Comfortable working in both lab and field settings, including experimentation with earth-based materials.

Adaptability

: Thrives in a fast-paced, resource-constrained, entrepreneurial environment.

Communication

: Capable of engaging diverse audiences, from scientists to field staff to senior management.

Technical Skills

: Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and data management tools.