Head of Engineering / engineering Lead

Your mission

We are currently looking for an Engineering Lead / Head of Engineering to join our growing team. The role will ideally be performed full-time, but part-time models can be discussed.

The Role
Our roles are not set in stone. In case you feel that you are not a 100% fit, but
bring some elements to the table and are eager to learn,

As a Planeteers Engineering Lead / Head of Engineeringyou will be responsible for the following tasks:

• Own and continuously refine Planeteers’ technology roadmap in close alignment with the Managing Directors, the R&D Lead, and theLeadership Team.
• Translate company strategy, customer needs, scientific progress, and field experience into clear engineering priorities and execution plans.
• Lead the development of new solutions from concepts and prototypes through pilot systems and industrial designs, improving performance, reliability, operability, and cost.
• Take ownership of the safe and reliable operation of Planeteers’ plants, using field experience and operational data to feed lessons learned back into R&D, design, and future plant generations.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the Engineering & Operations department, including its structure, capabilities, hiring, and ways of working.
• Define the standards needed to scale engineering, plant integration, automation, maintenance, and project delivery.
• Work closely with the Managing Directors, the Leadership Team, the R&D Lead, project leads, commercial teams, and external partners to align interfaces and address risks early.
• Establish a strong feedback loop from operations into technology and design, and help bring the next generation of Planeteers’ technology into real-world operation.

Your profile

What do you bring to the Planeteers team?

• You have a minimum of 8 years of professional engineering experience, including extensive industrial experience ideally in complex process plants, reactor systems, plant engineering, EPC delivery, or comparable technical environments.
• You have proven experience leading and developing Engineering teams, either as a formal people manager or through clear functional leadership responsibility.
• You have a track record of taking complex systems from concept or prototype into reliable operation and scale‑up.
• You hold a degree in process engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, or a related technical field. Equivalent practical engineering experience will also be considered.
• You have experience working with engineering partners, EPC contractors, suppliers, and other external stakeholders.
• You combine strategic thinking with hands‑and practical decision‑making under uncertainty.
• You speak and write English at a professional C1 level or above. German is not required.
• You are willing to work closely with plants, project sites, suppliers, and partners, including occasional travel where needed.
• You show strong ownership, communicate clearly, build trust across functions, and lead with high standards, humility, and a hands‑on mindset.

Data Protection Notice

We process your data in accordance with applicable data protection laws. Your application will only be stored for as long as necessary, and inclusion in our talent pool is based on your consent, which you can withdraw at any time.