Engineering Project Manager (m/f/d) - Optics

Join a cutting-edge engineering environment supporting the development of next-generation optical technologies, imaging systems, and instrumentation. We are looking for an Engineering Project Manager to drive complex, cross-functional programs, working closely with internal engineering teams and external vendors to ensure successful delivery.

This role requires a proactive, hands-on individual who can manage multiple priorities, bring structure to fast-paced optical and instrumentation development, and effectively coordinate across engineering, operations, and supplier teams.

Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end project planning, scheduling, tracking, and reporting across multiple optics and engineering programs
• Monitor project progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies
• Collaborate closely with program managers, optical engineering teams, and technical stakeholders
• Drive execution across cross-functional teams including Engineering, Operations, Procurement, and Commercial
• Coordinate development activities across optics, imaging, optical systems, mechanical, electrical, software, and related engineering disciplines
• Manage external vendors, ensuring alignment on timelines, technical deliverables, quality, and project requirements
• Track vendor performance, escalate issues when needed, and ensure timely resolution
• Support the development and integration of new optical technologies, imaging systems, and instrumentation by helping unblock technical and organizational issues
• Coordinate prototype development, testing, validation, and implementation activities
• Improve governance, processes, and reporting structures across engineering programs
• Motivate teams to deliver on commitments and deadlines
• Provide regular updates and clear communication to stakeholders

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience managing engineering, optics, or technical development projects
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects with competing priorities
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Experience working with cross-functional engineering teams and project management tools
• Experience monitoring milestones, project scope, and deliveries utilizing Jira or similar tools
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, fluent in English
• Experience collaborating across different time zones
• Proactive, self-driven mindset with strong problem-solving skills
• Ability to build trust and maintain strong working relationships

Preferred Skills & Background

• Technical degree (BS/MS/PhD) in optical engineering, optics, photonics, imaging, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, software engineering, or a related field
• Experience in optics, optical systems, imaging systems, photonics, vision algorithm development, or metrology is a strong plus
• Understanding of optical system development, integration, testing, and validation
• Ability to understand technical requirements and engage effectively in engineering discussions
• Experience coordinating deliverables across engineering and supplier teams
• Strong vendor management and stakeholder coordination skills
• Familiarity with project management and engineering development tools
• Experience working with prototype development and technical validation programs

Team Leadership Responsibilities

• Oversee team deliverables and ensure quality standards
• Support resource planning, scheduling, and workload distribution
• Manage onboarding, training, and ongoing team support
• Act as first point of contact for escalations
• Monitor team progress and provide regular summary reports
• Ensure continuity through proper planning and coverage

Success Criteria

• Timely delivery of key milestones across all project phases, including planning, optical design, prototype build, integration, testing, validation, and implementation
• Successful execution of optical prototype development and validation activities
• Effective coordination of internal engineering and vendor deliverables
• Clear visibility into project status, risks, dependencies, and technical deliverables
• Strong collaboration across optical, engineering, operations, and supplier teams
• Continuous improvement of processes, governance, and reporting

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 70.000,00€ - 95.000,00€ per year

Experience:

• Optics: 2 years (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in München