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.