Director, Service Technologies Lab

We are the leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. For more than 55 years, our innovations have improved the lives of billions of people around the globe who may never know us by name, but who rely on us every day as they interact with technology.

The world’s brightest minds—visionaries, engineers, scientists—bring their expertise in materials engineering and come together at Applied with a collection of diverse opinions, experiences and backgrounds.

We deliver material innovation that changes the world.

We are seeking a visionary and technically adept  Lab Director to lead ourService Technologies Lab in Singapore. This lab is at the forefront of innovation, developing cutting-edge solutions in collaborative robotics (cobots), AI-driven service automation, and intelligent hardware-software systems. The Director will be responsible for setting the strategic direction, managing a multidisciplinary team, and ensuring successful delivery of high-impact technologies that redefine service experiences.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategy

• Direct an engineering group responsible for all issues across business unit product line, including the design, development and implementation of complex engineering programs in accordance with project budgets and release schedules

• Define and drive the lab’s vision, roadmap, and innovation strategy in alignment with corporate goals

• Foster a culture of experimentation, agility, and technical excellence

• Represent the lab in global leadership forums and cross-functional innovation councils

• Interfaces with internal and external customers on technology and roadmap requirements

Team & Project Management

• Build, lead and mentor a team of engineers and researchers across software, hardware, AIand systems integration

• Oversee project planning, resource allocation, and execution to ensure timely and high-quality deliverables

• Attract, retain, and develop top technical talent

Technology Development

• Guide the development of next-gen service technologies including cobots, autonomous service routines, and AI-data driven platforms

• Ensure robust integration of hardware and software components for scalable, real-world deployment

• Promote best practices in prototyping, testing, and iterative development

Collaboration & Partnerships

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders (e.g., product, operations, IT) to align lab output with business needs

• Build partnerships with universities, startups, and research institutions to accelerate innovation

• Engage with regulatory bodies and industry groups to stay ahead of compliance and standards

Operations & Governance

• Manage lab operations including budget, infrastructure, and compliance

• Establish KPIs and reporting mechanisms to track progress and impact

• Ensure IP protection and contribute to patent strategy

Qualifications:

• Master’s or PhD in Robotics, Computer Science, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, AIor related field

• 10+ years of experience in R&D leadership roles, preferably in robotics,automation, or advanced service technologies

• Proven track record of managing multidisciplinary technical teams and delivering complex projects

• Strong understanding of AI, embedded systems, mechatronics, and cloud-connected platforms

• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and strategic thinking skills

• Experience working in or with teams across Asia is a plus

• Understanding of Semiconductor Equipment applications and Fab environments is a plus