Job Purpose

Innovation-as-a-Service Centre for Sustainability Innovation (IaaS CSI) is an ecosystem-level platform helmed by SIT to support innovation projects (from POC test-bedding to implementation) and talent development, thus enabling agencies and enterprises to accelerate innovation for the green economy.

IaaS CSI aims to champion innovation within Singapore innovation ecosystem by bringing together capabilities from Universities, Polytechnics, ITE, Research Institutes, Industry. It is supported by the National Research Foundation (NRF) and staffed by Professional Officers/RE/RF who will link the industry to the research performers.

The Professional Officer (Sustainability for Chemical Processes). POs, with more than 15 years of industry experience, would enhance the performance outcomes of the IaaS CSI. The PO will work with industry partners to co-create commercially viable solutions by co-ideating and co-executing innovation projects. These projects will help the industries and businesses move up the value chain. While working on these projects, the PO will have the opportunity to leverage or be equipped with applied research skill sets that are relevant to industry demands. The success of these initiatives will bring about deeper collaboration with key industry stakeholders that will translate industry engagement into more innovation projects with SIT and/or the greater innovation ecosystem at large.

The PO for Centre for Sustainability Innovation will play a pivotal role in advancing sustainability-focused research and projects that are relevant to the food and chemicals domain. Collaborating closely with faculty, industry partners, researchers, and students, the PO will co-create impactful, practical, and commercially viable solutions that address critical sustainability challenges, encompassing environmental, social, and economic dimensions.

Key Responsibilities

Applied Research and Innovation

• Lead and manage projects impacting the Food and Chemicals ecosystem i.e., food manufacturers, chemical producers, supply chain operators, technology providers, regulatory bodies, policy makers, etc, focusing on sustainability innovation, including but not limited to carbon accounting and management, food waste reduction, circular economy, sustainable packaging, green chemistry, and hazardous substance reduction technologies. 
• Collaborate with other domain in the IaaS CSI to leverage cross functional capabilities to enhance innovation outcomes. 
• Support life cycle analysis (LCA), enviornmental impact assessments, and resource optimization studies to address real-world sustainability challenges. 
• Explore emerging technologies, frameworks, and practices to advance sustainable solutions in industries.

Industry Engagement

• Technical professionals who will work with local enterprises to frame projects, identify capabilities needed from the industry ecosystem, IHLs and centers.

• Collaborate with industry partners to co-create sustainable solutions that enhance their operations and align with sustainability goals.
• Foster partnerships with businesses, government agencies, and other stakeholders to develop impactful projects that enhance environmental, social, and economic outcomes.
• Involve in industry engagements, help to bring in higher value-added projects for the centres in SIT, Polytechnics, ITE and other IHLs and RIs.
• Identify emerging trends and opportunities in sustainability to position SIT as a key partner in environmental sustainability innovation.
• Demonstrate thought leadership by speaking at conferences or publishing opinion pieces to promote the mission of IaaS CSI

Project Management

• Secure funding for research and innovation projects through grant applications and proposals.
• Oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of sustainability-related projects, ensuring timely completion and high-quality outcomes.
• Monitor project progress, budgets, and milestones, providing regular updates to stakeholders.

Professional Development and Expertise

• Stay updated with developments in sustainability innovation, including new technologies, regulations, and industry practices.

Job Requirements 

• A degree in Chemical Engineering, Food Science and Technology, Food Engineering, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Engineering with sustainability training, or a related field. A Master’s or PhD is preferred.
• At least 15 years of relevant industry experience, with a proven track record in sustainability innovation and ESG integration.

• Representation on National committees e.g., Standards Organisation or Industry Association will be key for industry networks and an added advantage

• Strong knowledge of environmental technologies, resource management, and sustainable business practices.

• Familiarity with relevant sustainability certifications and standards, such as ISO 14044, etc.

• Experience in life cycle analysis, carbon accounting, ESG reporting, and sustainability metrics.

• Strong analytical, project management, and communication skills.

• Possess relevant industry certifications in sustainability or ESG is an advantage.

• Experience in writing project proposals and grants will be an added advantage.

• Extensive experience and knowledge of industry practices to bring industry perspective to SIT.

• Keen interest in innovation projects, with demonstrated ability in developing solutions to technical problems.

• Strong supervisory skills and enjoy working closely with students in an educational environment.

• Demonstrate proficiency to keep abreast of development in the field and pursue professional certification programs. Possess industrial certifications in relevant areas will be an added advantage.

Key Competencies

• Strong understanding of the sustainability challenges faced by industries and the market landscape in Singapore and the region.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate effectively with industry partners, students, and stakeholders.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional and multidisciplinary environment.
• Proactive approach to continuous learning and professional development in the sustainability field.
• Proficient in technical writing and presentation
• Possess good analytical and critical thinking skills
• Shows good initiative and takes ownership of work undertaken
• Project management skills, including planning, execution, and monitoring of sustainability projects.