About the Company Our client is a leading Australian manufacturer of industrial lubricants and chemical solutions, operating as an independent, family-owned organisation with a long-standing reputation for technical excellence. With over 100 years of experience, the business specialises in the development, manufacture and supply of high-performance greases, lubricants and specialty formulations to domestic and international markets. The organisation is known for its strong focus on customised solutions, rigorous testing, advanced instrumentation, and ongoing investment in research, development and innovation. The company employs a highly experienced technical team and offers a dynamic, high-performing environment where quality, collaboration and continuous improvement are at the core of the culture. About the Role Reporting into senior leadership, the Technical Manager will have full responsibility for the technical function, overseeing Research and Development, Quality Control and Laboratory Services. This is a senior leadership position requiring strong technical depth, commercial awareness and the ability to translate laboratory development into robust, scalable manufacturing outcomes. The role will lead strategic R&D planning, ensure product and process quality, and partner closely with manufacturing, engineering, commercial and external stakeholders to support business objectives. Key ResponsibilitiesLead and manage the R&D function, driving new product development and ongoing formulation improvement across lubricants and specialty productsDevelop and execute R&D strategy aligned with commercial and operational goalsOversee laboratory-based production trials and manage technology transfer from laboratory to manufacturingManage and develop the Quality Control and Laboratory Services teams to ensure consistent compliance with product and quality standardsProvide subject matter expertise on quality compliance, test methods and specificationsLead technical discussions with customers, including participation in customer quality auditsMaintain laboratory databases, technical documentation, SOPs and information systemsMaintain and improve formulations, bills of materials and technical data within the ERP systemManage rework, flush and SLOBS levels to support efficient and compliant manufacturing operationsProvide technical guidance, mentoring and training to laboratory and technical staff, including experimental design and task managementProvide technical advice and project leadership across cross-functional teams including Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology and InnovationIndirectly supervise production staff during plant trialsBuild and maintain strong professional relationships with customers, suppliers and external technical expertsFoster a collaborative, high-performance culture across the technical and operational teamsSkills and ExperienceProven experience in laboratory or technical management roles within a manufacturing environmentIndustry experience within lubricants, greases or related chemical formulations is highly regardedStrong background in research and development, quality control and manufacturing supportDemonstrated experience managing staff at task and project level, including cross-functional teamsTertiary qualifications in Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related disciplineWell-developed analytical and problem-solving skillsStrong understanding of WHS requirements within laboratory and manufacturing environmentsCommercially driven with the ability to balance technical excellence and business outcomesClear and confident communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively across all levelsDemonstrated strategic thinking and the ability to set priorities and drive continuous improvementValid driver licence and willingness to travel across AustraliaFlexibility to travel internationally on an annual basis (EU and South East Asia)Culture and BenefitsCompetitive performance‑based bonus schemeFlu vaccinations, corporate health fund discounts and ergonomic assessmentsEmployee Assistance ProgramVolunteer leaveBirthday leaveFree on-site parkingReimbursement programsInnovative, collaborative and technically focused work environmentApply Ready to take the next step in your technical leadership career? Submit your application today. Please include a detailed resume in Word format. For a confidential discussion, contact Mairead Dineen at Evolve Scientific Recruitment on mairead.dineen@evolvescientific.com.au or 61 2 8071 4290. All enquiries and applications will be treated in strict confidence. The client’s identity will be shared with shortlisted candidates during the briefing stage.With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.