Engineering Expert – Post-Processing Technology (Washing & Drying) - Hamburg

Mission

Own and drive the development of Zellerfeld’s post-processing systems – particularly washing and drying – as the company’s leading technical authority. This is not a people management role, but a deep technical one: hands‑on, execution‑oriented, and innovation‑driven. The role requires combining years of engineering experience with the ability to build high‑quality systems while supporting and challenging a growing team of younger engineers.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, prototyping, and implementation of next‑generation washing and drying systems for 3D‑printed footwear
• Serve as the company's go‑to expert for anything related to water treatment, washing machine technologies, and drying systems
• Develop and implement reliable, scalable, and efficient processes to improve drying speed, energy usage, and cleaning effectiveness
• Act as technical mentor and quality gatekeeper for a team of younger engineers – not managing them, but ensuring engineering excellence
• Stay deeply hands‑on: test, iterate, and refine prototypes and systems
• Collaborate closely with production, hardware, and material teams to align system design with real‑world constraints and opportunities
• Keep up to date with industry best practices, technologies, and innovations and apply them pragmatically
• Ensure all developments are well‑documented, tested, and ready to scale

Your profile

• 10+ years of engineering experience in water‑based processing systems (e.g., washing machines, dryers, industrial cleaning systems, or water treatment)
• Proven track record of building reliable, cost‑effective, and energy‑efficient solutions
• Deep knowledge of fluid dynamics, heat transfer, materials compatibility, and system integration
• Strong prototyping and test engineering skills – able to go from concept to functional rig
• Experience working in a manufacturing, lab, or industrial R&D setting
• Comfortable coaching younger engineers and setting high engineering standards without formal disciplinary responsibility
• Hands‑on mentality, low ego, high credibility – approachable and respected by the team
• Fluent in English (German a plus)

What We Offer

• A role in shaping the future of 3D‑printed footwear and brand partnerships.
• A dynamic and fast‑paced work environment within an industry‑disrupting company.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• The opportunity to collaborate with top‑tier brands and industry pioneers.
• A flexible and creative workspace in Hamburg.

If you are results‑driven and have a growth mindset, we’d love to hear from you! Apply now to join Zellerfeld R&D and play a key role in shaping the future of footwear innovation.