Intrapreneur / Business & Tech Lead - Agriculture Robotics (m/f/x) - limited for 2 years

Intrapreneur / Business & Tech Lead – Agriculture Robotics (m/f/x) – limited for 2 years

Are you passionate about driving robotic solutions through artificial intelligence? Join us in innovating agriculture through cutting‑edge robotics and AI technology! We are searching for an experienced, motivated, inquisitive, and results‑oriented entrepreneur to help us build a robotic system in our newly formed AgTech department. ZEISS has launched a large strategic initiative to deliver robotic solutions to high‑end greenhouses, initially focusing on labour automation. We have established a dedicated team to lead this effort with a start‑up mindset within ZEISS. As the selected candidate, you will build an internal startup, steer prototype and product development, shape the roadmap, build the team, and drive progress with an entrepreneurial spirit. You will work closely with engineering to guide developments around USPs and future customers, leveraging the latest in robotics, computer vision, simulation, machine learning and AI to automate greenhouse labour. Additionally, you will support business‑development activities and report progress to senior management. We are looking for someone with a hands‑on mentality, start‑up experience, and who thrives in a fast‑paced, innovative environment.

Your Role

• Build an internal startup and drive prototype and product development.
• Interact with key internal and external stakeholders and future customers to understand product requirements.
• Shape startup‑like development and business‑building environment.
• Lead and coordinate development teams, ensuring strong focus and fast iterations; regularly report progress to top management (incl. executive board).
• Define and validate technical specifications and KPIs.
• Shape roadmap and long‑term product vision while ensuring efficient budget spending.
• Build and lead a high‑performing team, including recruiting top talent.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
• Establish collaboration channels with industry partners, start‑ups, or research institutions.

Your Profile

• A degree with excellent grades in natural sciences, computer sciences, or engineering.
• Background as entrepreneur in a tech start‑up (e.g., founder, CTO, lead engineer).
• Experience building high‑performing teams and organizations in a fast‑paced environment.
• Experience in computer vision and robotics is a plus.
• Proven experience developing prototypes and rapidly iterating them to market readiness.
• Ability to translate technical concepts into business value.
• Experience leading cross‑disciplinary teams and strong communication skills.
• Keen interest in investigating complex problems and driving labour‑automation solutions.
• Proficiency in English, both written and spoken; German is a plus.

The contract is limited for 2 years.

At ZEISS, we value innovation, collaboration, and a passion for driving change. If you are ready to take on this exciting role and contribute to the future of labour‑automation solutions in high‑end greenhouses, we look forward to receiving your application.

Your ZEISS Recruiting Team
Vanessa Reißle