Technical Manager & Field Support – Automotive OEM (SEA)

About the role

We are seeking a Technical Manager who will split his time between leading the Local Application Technology team and providing on‑site Technical Field Support for automotive OEM customers across South‑East Asia. The role is based in Bangkok and combines strategic lab leadership with hands‑on troubleshooting at customer plants.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the SEA Application Technology team, manage labs, HR matters, EHS and quality compliance.
• Develop and optimise application processes, handle customer samples and support product approvals.
• Prepare and monitor lab budgets (CAPEX, headcount) and align resources with business needs.
• Provide on‑site technical support for new line start‑ups, line switches and ongoing troubleshooting, including chemical analysis and application testing.
• Advise on plant layout design, process optimisation and continuous improvement for key accounts.
• Collaborate with sales and product development to secure new customer projects.

Required profile

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related field (MSc preferred).
• At least 5 years of experience in surface treatment or chemical pretreatment.
• Strong English communication skills (written and spoken).
• Proven leadership experience in a laboratory or technical service environment.

Required skills

• Chemistry
• Chemical Engineering
• Surface Treatment
• Chemical Pretreatment
• Chemical Analysis
• Lab Management
• EHS compliance
• Budgeting & CAPEX planning
• Product Localization
• Bath make‑up calculations
• Plant layout design
• Troubleshooting
• Chemetall product application knowledge

What we offer

• Permanent contract with competitive compensation.
• Opportunity to lead a regional technical team.
• Exposure to leading automotive OEM customers across SEA.