Manager, Operations Management (R&D)

Who We Are

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips – the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world – like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world. 

What We Offer

Location:

You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more. 

At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We’re committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits. 

As Manager, Operations Management in R&D, you will lead operational activities that enable the successful execution of research and development programs. This role requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure efficient resource utilization, compliance, and timely delivery of R&D milestones.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead a team of multi-disciplinary engineers, planner, and technicians to ensure day-to-day smooth operations of a semiconductor lab environment.

• Responsible for new facility cleanroom setup and equipment layout, material flow, manning planning and implementation to ensure efficient and productive use of resources in production.

• Manage lab tools startup, retrofit, PM, CIP, lab safety, lab security, customer demo, lab facility, logistic, vendors, purchasing and finance activities.

• Provide direction and leadership to ensure lab operation KPI and schedule are met, enhancing delivery responsiveness.

• Develop and execute KPU strategy project and manage AOP spending, budget, and support finance on government grant submission. 

• Plans and evaluates optimal resource utilization and efficiency of operation to minimize costs and allow for on-time delivery of product to customers. Accurately establishes plant capacity

• Establishes and monitors production using metrics/budgets through systems, and initiates appropriate corrective action as needed and based on results. Establishes and controls project schedules, timelines.

• Directs, guides, monitors, and evaluates personnel to accomplish specific production and supply chain goals consistent with established operational, housekeeping (5S), and safety procedures and processes.  Engage in problem solving in complex situations and process improvements in streamlining work processes.

• Leads continuous improvement efforts and projects to refine production methods and processes to produce quality products that meet customer requirements in the most cost-effective manner.

• Identifies and pursues new and complex technologies to improve production and cycle time, increase efficiency and resource utilization and maximize profitability.

• Works closely with members of Senior and Executive Management to align overall operations development with business needs/opportunities. Promotes an environment of cooperation and trust.

• Provides senior leadership, guidance, mentorship, and personal development of his/her direct reports in the areas of daily operational management, systems development, and optimization. And ensures that all direct reports are sufficiently skilled and trained to perform their functions in a high-quality and efficient manner.

• Identifies process and quality changes designed to improve manufacturing or department capabilities. Drives Lean, Safety and Quality.  Takes corrective action.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.

• 8+ years of experience in semiconductor operations, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.

• Strong background in R&D or advanced technology environments.

• Expertise in operations planning, resource management, and process optimization.

• Strong leadership and team development capabilities.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

• Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, and project management tools.

Work Location:

• Science Park II (Moving to Tampines in end 2026)

Additional Information

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Travel:

Relocation Eligible:

Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.