Head of Machining Processes ETH Zurich Switzerland

Head of Machining Processes

100%, Zurich, permanent

inspire AG is the Swiss competence center for production technology and a strategic partner of ETH Zurich for technology transfer. Our goal is to swiftly implement scientific findings into industrial practice. We are looking for a dedicated Group Leader for our Process Group to strengthen our innovation capabilities.

Project background

The Process Group at inspire is renowned for its cutting-edge research in machining technology and production engineering, covering processes such as milling, turning, grinding, EDM, and related modeling techniques. With strong industry connections, we are looking for a successor to lead our team and drive forward our research and development efforts.

Job description

  • Lead and manage a team of over 10 members (scientists and project engineers)
  • Create and setup the scientific profile in the field of machining for inspire 
  • Develop and implement strategic plans and goals together with ETH professors
  • Plan and allocate group resources, manage budgets, and ensure adherence to financial plans
  • Acquire projects and prepare funding applications
  • Give scientific guidance to the group in theory and experimentation
  • Supervise Postdocs, PhD, MSc, and BSc studies
  • Publish and promote publishing in scientific and industry-relevant media, organize, and co-organize conferences and participate in conferences
  • Build and maintain strong customer relationships, promptly addressing inquiries and concerns
  • Foster relationships with ETH professors and other universities, national and international collaboration on research topics and opportunities and joint projects

Profile

  • Enjoy a dynamic, science-driven work environment with far-reaching creative freedom
  • Benefit from opportunities for personal and professional development
  • Collaborate with a motivated team passionate about innovation and sustainability
  • Access to cutting-edge equipment in a research environment
  • Receive a competitive salary tailored to your profile and experience

We offer

  • PhD in Engineering (e.g., Electrical, Mechanical, Computer Science) or related fields
  • Deep understanding of machining processes, including milling, turning, grinding or EDM
  • Over 5 years of professional experience, ideally within industry
  • Proven expertise in managing research or industry projects, especially in machining and production technology
  • Successful track record in securing public project funding (e.g., Innosuisse, European funding)
  • Strong ability to build and maintain collaborative relationships with industry partners
  • Competence in scientific process metrology and monitoring
  • Excellent project execution and scientific publication record
  • Fluency in German and English
  • Outstanding communication and presentation skills
  • High level of initiative, organizational skills, and analytical thinking
  • Effective team player with the ability to collaborate with other groups of inspire and ETH

Curious? So are we.

Please send your complete application

  • cover letter
  • transcripts
  • CV
  • references

with the reference "Head Machining Processes" to our HR department (hr@inspire.ch). For technical questions, please contact Dr. Ralf Gerdes (ralf.gerdes@inspire.ch). Please also visit our websites.