Innovation Manager - Industrial Wastewater Treatment

Innovation Manager - Industrial Wastewater Treatment

We are seeking a strategic and technically accomplished Head – Industrial Waste Management to lead the research and development of treatment solutions for complex industrial effluents. This position requires a deep understanding of process chemistry, advanced oxidation, and physico-chemical treatment technologies applicable to industrial sectors such as refineries, steel, petrochemicals, and pharmaceuticals. 

The candidate will define R&D strategy and guide multi-disciplinary teams to develop, validate, and scale technologies that can handle high-strength wastewaters and emerging pollutants. The role also requires close engagement with industry clients, process licensors, and technology start-ups to co-develop practical and cost-effective solutions tailored to challenging industrial effluents. A balance of deep scientific understanding and commercial pragmatism is essential for success. 

Key Responsibilities 

1. Lead and oversee R&D programs on industrial wastewater and hazardous effluent treatment from lab scale studies followed by pilot trials and field implementation. 

2. Evaluate existing industrial waste challenges, conduct bench and pilot-scale treatability studies. 

3. Develop integrated flowsheets combining multiple means of treating industrial waste such as physico-chemical, biological, and advanced oxidation processes. 

4. Collaborate with digital teams for real-time monitoring and process optimization. 

5. Mentor and supervise teams working on process design and testing. 

6. Evaluate ready to use external technologies and evolve technologies at the early stages to bring the required differentiation. 

7. Build partnerships with external research organizations and industry associations. 

8. Present findings at technical conferences and contribute to L&T’s IP portfolio. 

Qualifications 

• Education: PhD in Chemical Engineering, Industrial Chemistry, or Biotechnology. 

• Experience: 20 years total, including 5 years in industrial wastewater R&D or technology development. 

• Strong expertise in high TDS/TSS effluents, refractory organics, and ZLD integration. 

• Proven ability to lead pilot-scale deployments and field troubleshooting. 

• Publications: Minimum 5 peer-reviewed papers and at least one patent or book chapter preferred. 

• Excellent leadership and project management skills.