Chief Researcher

Job Description:

• Support General Manager in strategic and operational planning, including budgeting, resource allocation, and project portfolio management, while overseeing project delivery, risks, outcomes, and the development of standard workflows for wider implementation.
• Engage regularly with construction sites to identify operational challenges and translate site-specific needs into practical digital construction and robotics solutions.
• Lead digital construction and robotics projects from technology evaluation and planning through on-site trials, field validation, implementation, and outcome assessment.
• Evaluate, adapt, and implement advanced technologies, including AI, BIM, drones, mobile robots, construction robotics, reality capture, and digital twin solutions, to enhance construction operations.
• Collaborate with site teams, engineers, technology vendors, internal stakeholders to ensure proposed solutions are safe, practical, and suitable for construction operations.
• Establish and manage partnerships with universities and research institutions to identify collaborative research opportunities and facilitate the practical application of research outcomes in construction.
• Lead and develop group members through effective work allocation, technical guidance, field-based coaching, knowledge transfer, and represent the General Manager when required.
• Communicate and showcase project outcomes through technical presentations, reports, industry forums, and professional conferences.

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, or an equivalent qualification.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in construction site management and project execution.
• Proven experience in leading digital transformation initiatives or technology deployment in actual construction projects.
• Experience engaging with construction site teams, engineers, technology vendors, industry partners, universities, and research institutions to identify operational challenges, develop practical solutions, and support collaborative initiatives.
• Strong understanding of digital construction technologies, with exposure to areas such as AI, BIM, robotics, drones, autonomous mobile robots, sensing systems, or construction automation.
• Relevant qualifications in occupational health and safety management.
• Proficiency in Japanese communication is required to effectively communicate and collaborate with Japanese-speaking HQ staff on technical and project-related matters.