Head of Engineering - Plant Based Food Manufacturing

Head of Engineering - Plant Based Food Manufacturing

European Tech Recruit are working closely hannover, based, at a plant‑based food tech company in Berlin to find a talented Head of Engineering.

In this role you will lead the engineering organization, define the technical strategy and build scalable systems that power an innovative food technology platform. As a hands‑on technical leader you will guide a team of engineers while ensuring robust, scalable solutions that meet ambitious product and business goals.

Responsibilities

• Build & Scale New Production Facility: Expand the client’s food production capacity by 10–20× within 12 months. Design, construct, and commission a fully automated production facility from the ground up after a successful nationwide supermarket launch in Germany. Lead equipment selection, site development and automation integration to deliver Germany’s most advanced food production line.
• Technical Project Leadership: Oversee complex multidisciplinary engineering projects across mechanical, electrical, and automation domains. Move seamlessly between strategic planning and hands‑on problem‑solving, guiding projects from concept through detailed implementation.
• Cross‑Functional Project Management: Direct large‑scale engineering initiatives involving contractors, suppliers and internal teams. Coordinate closely with R&D, operations, QA, regulatory and supply chain to ensure smooth execution. Act as the bridge between food scientists, engineers and business stakeholders. Lead an 8‑person in‑house engineering team for machine development, prototyping and integration.
• Resource Planning & Allocation: Develop and manage detailed project resource plans, covering budget forecasting, headcount and equipment procurement. Optimize resource use միջազգային projects while balancing competing priorities.
• Risk Management & Mitigation: Identify and assess technical, operational and business risks. Implement proactive mitigation strategies and robust project controls to ensure early detection and resolution of issues.
• Team Leadership & Development: Build and lead a high‑performing engineering team. Provide mentorship, set clear performance goals and establish growth pathways to foster long‑term career development.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Electrical or Mechatronics Engineering, with a strong foundation in machine design, materials science and automation systems.
• 10 years of mechanical engineering experience in automated manufacturing with at least 5 years in leadership roles managing mechanical, electrical, controls/software and/or automation engineering teams. Proven track record in food technology or advanced manufacturing environments with automated systems.
• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD), electrical and controls software (EPLAN, Beckhoff, Siemens), mechanical simulation tools and design for manufacturing principles.
• Experience with precision machinery design, material selection and mechanical system optimisation for high‑volume production environments.
• Experience in critical hygiene environments and equipment design requirements for hygienic manufacturing.
• Understanding of applicable safety and technical standards including VDE100, DGUV V3, EU Machinery Directive, EN 60204‑1 and related industrial compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross‑functional teams, align diverse stakeholders and communicate effectively across levels.
• A proactive, solutions‑oriented mindset with the ability to adapt quickly in a fast‑paced, dynamic start‑up environment.
• Fluency inaiste English and German, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.

If this role is of any interest, please apply directly on LinkedIn or send a copy of your CV to

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