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 Responsibilities- Lead and manage the R&D function, driving new product development and ongoing formulation improvement across lubricants and specialty products
- Develop and execute R&D strategy aligned with commercial and operational goals
- Oversee laboratory-based production trials and manage technology transfer from laboratory to manufacturing
- Manage and develop the Quality Control and Laboratory Services teams to ensure consistent compliance with product and quality standards
- Provide subject matter expertise on quality compliance, test methods and specifications
- Lead technical discussions with customers, including participation in customer quality audits
- Maintain laboratory databases, technical documentation, SOPs and information systems
- Maintain and improve formulations, bills of materials and technical data within the ERP system
- Manage rework, flush and SLOBS levels to support efficient and compliant manufacturing operations
- Provide technical guidance, mentoring and training to laboratory and technical staff, including experimental design and task management
- Provide technical advice and project leadership across cross-functional teams including Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology and Innovation
- Indirectly supervise production staff during plant trials
- Build and maintain strong professional relationships with customers, suppliers and external technical experts
- Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture across the technical and operational teams
Skills and Experience- Proven experience in laboratory or technical management roles within a manufacturing environment
- Industry experience within lubricants, greases or related chemical formulations is highly regarded
- Strong background in research and development, quality control and manufacturing support
- Demonstrated experience managing staff at task and project level, including cross-functional teams
- Tertiary qualifications in Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related discipline
- Well-developed analytical and problem-solving skills
- Strong understanding of WHS requirements within laboratory and manufacturing environments
- Commercially driven with the ability to balance technical excellence and business outcomes
- Clear and confident communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively across all levels
- Demonstrated strategic thinking and the ability to set priorities and drive continuous improvement
- Valid driver licence and willingness to travel across Australia
- Flexibility to travel internationally on an annual basis (EU and South East Asia)
Culture and Benefits- Competitive performance‑based bonus scheme
- Flu vaccinations, corporate health fund discounts and ergonomic assessments
- Employee Assistance Program
- Volunteer leave
- Birthday leave
- Free on-site parking
- Reimbursement programs
- Innovative, collaborative and technically focused work environment
Apply 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.
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