Deputy Director General (R&D)

Deputy Director General (R&D) – National Engineering Research and Development Centre (NERD)

Job Overview

The National Engineering Research and Development Centre (NERD) invites applications from highly experienced and dynamic professionals for the post of Deputy Director General (Research & Development). This is a senior leadership role responsible for driving national-level engineering research, innovation, and technology development initiatives, with a strong focus on industrial application, commercialization, and strategic R&D direction.

Position Details

• Position: Deputy Director General (Research & Development)
• Organization: National Engineering Research and Development Centre (NERD)
• Job Grade: HM 2-1
• Job Category: Engineering & Technical, Government Jobs, Management
• Location: Gampaha, Sri Lanka
• Employment Type: Senior Government Position
• Closing Date: 21 July 2026

Company Overview

The National Engineering Research and Development Centre (NERD), operating under the Ministry of Science and Technology, is Sri Lanka’s premier engineering R&D institution. The organization focuses on multidisciplinary engineering research, innovation, industrial consultancy services, testing, calibration, and technology commercialization. With a strong workforce of engineers and technical experts, NERD plays a key role in national development and industrial advancement.

Qualifications & Experience

• A Bachelor’s Degree (4-year duration) in Engineering recognized by the UGC Sri Lanka
  OR Associate Membership of the Institute of Engineers Sri Lanka
• AND Corporate Membership (Chartered) of a recognized professional engineering body OR a Master’s Degree
• Minimum 18 years of relevant post-qualification experience
• At least 5 years in a managerial-level position in a corporation, statutory board, or reputed institution

Internal Candidates:

• Must meet the above qualifications
• OR minimum 5 years’ experience as Director (Technical) or Principal Research Engineer

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage national-level engineering R&D programs
• Drive innovation, technology transfer, and commercialization initiatives
• Oversee multidisciplinary engineering research projects
• Ensure efficient management of industrial testing, evaluation, and calibration services
• Provide strategic direction for research and development activities
• Collaborate with government, industry, and academic stakeholders
• Monitor project performance and ensure delivery of national objectives
• Guide senior engineering teams and research units

Required Skills

• Strong leadership and strategic management capabilities
• Advanced engineering research and development expertise
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Ability to manage large-scale technical and multidisciplinary teams
• Strong decision-making and analytical thinking skills
• Computer literacy and familiarity with modern management systems
• High ethical standards and professional integrity

Salary & Benefits

• Salary Scale: HM 2-1 (2025) – Rs. 161,140 – 219,340
• Gross Monthly Salary: Approx. Rs. 140,317 + Rs. 25,000 allowance + Rs. 17,800 cost of living allowance
• EPF: Employer 15% contribution, Employee 10%
• ETF: Employer 3% contribution
• Transport Allowance: Rs. 50,000 (as per government circulars)
• Fuel allowance and medical reimbursement benefits
• Other government-approved allowances and privileges

How to Apply

Applicants must submit a full bio-data including educational, professional, and experience details along with copies of relevant certificates and two non-related referees.

Applications should be sent via registered post to:

Chairman
National Engineering Research and Development Centre of Sri Lanka
Industrial Estate
Ekala, Ja-Ela, Sri Lanka

Applicants from government corporations or public sector institutions must forward applications through the respective Heads of Institutions.

Important Notes

• Applicants must be between 35 and 55 years of age (upper age limit not applicable for government sector employees)
• Applicants must be Sri Lankan citizens
• Strong leadership and proven managerial experience is essential
• Only shortlisted candidates will be called for interviews
• Applications must clearly mention the applied position on the envelope
• Late or incomplete applications will not be considered
• Appointment will be based on performance, qualifications, and interview evaluation
• This is a senior executive role with high responsibility in national R&D development

Source :

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