Senior Engineer/Senior R&D Specialist Systems Innovation (opens in new tab)

Nestlé S.A.; Orbe; Remote; CHF 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Nestlé S.A. in Orbe, Switzerland, seeks a Senior Engineer/Senior R&D Specialist Systems Innovation to lead research and early-stage innovation for new coffee systems, from idea generation to pre-development and know-how transfer.

You will partner with Nespresso and Nescafé Dolce Gusto, explore new technologies, create prototypes, and contribute to the next generation of coffee experiences enjoyed by millions worldwide.

Qualifications

• Experience leading research and early-stage innovation projects.
• Strong background in machine design and embedded systems.
• Prototyping, CAD and simulations skills.
• Ability to collaborate across functions and partners.
• Familiarity with quality, safety and compliance expectations.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects and early-stage innovation for coffee systems.
• Develop technical components and system building blocks.
• Identify technology trends and consumer insights to shape pipelines.
• Turn ideas into prototypes and validate new solutions.
• Coordinate internal and external partners to deliver on time and budget.

Skills

Machine design

Embedded systems

System performance

Mechatronics

Prototyping

CAD

Data acquisition

Collaboration

Job description

Senior Engineer/Senior R&D Specialist Systems Innovation

Location: Orbe, Switzerland
Work model: Full time
Contract type / duration: Permanent
Deadline for applications: 7th August 2026

Be a force for good and grow through experiences that push you further.

As a Senior Engineer/Senior R&D Specialist Systems Innovation at Nestlé NPTC, your mission is to lead research and early-stage innovation for new coffee systems, from idea generation and concept design to pre-development and know-how transfer. A coffee system combines the machine, the beverage ingredients (e.g., capsule, pod, or sachet), and the preparation process to create a unique consumer experience.

You’ll work closely with business partners, primarily Nespresso and Nescafé Dolce Gusto, as well as operations, research and development teams, suppliers, universities, and technology partners. Whether your passion is microengineering, mechatronics, machine design, or connected products, you will have the opportunity to explore new technologies, turn ideas into prototypes, grow your expertise, and help shape the next generation of coffee experiences enjoyed by millions of consumers around the world.

How you’ll make an impact as a Senior Engineer/Senior R&D Specialist Systems Innovation

• Leading research projects and early-stage innovation behind the next generation of Nespresso and Nescafé Dolce Gusto systems.
• Driving the development of technical components, subsystems and system building blocks that support future beverage experiences.
• Identifying technology trends, competitor developments and consumer insights to shape a strong innovation pipeline.
• Turn ideas into reality through rapid prototyping, testing, experimentation, and technology exploration, and validate new solutions for machines, capsules, products and preparation methods.
• Coordinating internal and external partners to deliver projects on time, within budget and in line with quality, safety and compliance expectations.

What will make you successful

• Bringing strong expertise in machine design, system performance, machine intelligence, components, materials and quality by design.
• Bringing strong expertise in embedded systems (hardware and software development), inter-connected devices, signal processing and data acquisition for systems.
• Using prototyping (in mechanics and electronics), computer-aided design, simulations and testing methods to create, assess and refine innovative technical concepts.
• Collaborating with confidence across functions, suppliers and business partners while managing priorities, timelines, risks and project costs.
• Demonstrating courage, collaboration, speed and continuous learning.

What to expect from our hiring process

We are committed to an inclusive and respectful hiring experience and are happy to provide reasonable accommodations if needed. Our workplaces are fully accessible and supported by a strong safety culture, with modern installations and procedures to ensure a safe environment for everyone.

The hiring process typically includes a video interview with Talent Acquisition, an interview with the hiring team, and a final discussion and offer. We review applications as they are received and close the role once a strong list of relevant candidates is identified, so we encourage the applications early. All information is treated confidentially.