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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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