Chief Technology Manager - Optics Pilot Line

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel is seeking a Chief Technology Manager for its Extreme Optics Pilot Line. This leadership role involves overseeing daily operations, coordinating advanced optical manufacturing and metrology activities, and managing a multidisciplinary technical team. Applicants need a Master's degree in a relevant engineering or science field, 5-10 years of experience in advanced manufacturing or photonics, and demonstrable leadership and technical skills.

• Providing day-to-day leadership, coaching, and technical guidance to the team of technology experts operating the Extreme Optics Pilot Line.
• Coordinating and supervising activities related to optical design, ultraprecision manufacturing, replication technologies, assembly, testing, and metrology.
• Ensuring the efficient, safe, and reliable operation of the pilot-line infrastructure.
• Contributing to the strategic development and continuous improvement of B-PHOT's manufacturing and metrology capabilities.
• Working closely with researchers and industrial partners to translate innovative concepts into manufacturable and scalable solutions.
• Supporting technology transfer, industrial innovation projects, and collaborative R&D activities at Flemish, European, and international level.
• Identifying opportunities for process optimization, technology upgrades, and operational excellence throughout the pilot line.
• Fostering a culture of quality, innovation, teamwork, and continuous learning.

• You hold a Master's degree in Engineering Technology or Engineering Sciences, specialization Mechanical Engineering, Electromechanics, Optics, Photonics, Physics, Electronics, Industrial Engineering , or a related discipline . A PhD is considered an asset.
• Mechanical Engineering, Electromechanics, Optics, Photonics, Physics, Electronics, Industrial Engineering
• You have at least 5–10 years of relevant experience in advanced manufacturing, photonics, precision engineering, optics, or a related high-technology environment.
• 5–10 years of relevant experience
• You have demonstrable experience in the operation, management, or development of advanced manufacturing and/or metrology infrastructures.
• You possess a solid understanding of CAD/CAM environments , precision manufacturing technologies, and industrial production workflows.
• Experience with ultra-precision machining, diamond turning, injection moulding, replication technologies, optical assembly, and/or optical metrology is considered a strong asset.
• ultra-precision machining, diamond turning, injection moulding, replication technologies, optical assembly, and/or optical metrology
• Experience in supervising technical teams and coordinating multidisciplinary activities is highly desirable.
• You have excellent written and oral communication and reporting skills in English . Knowledge of Dutch is considered an asset or you are willing to acquire it.
• Experience in interacting with industrial clients, technology transfer projects, or collaborative R&D programmes is considered a strong advantage.