Project Manager – Support to the Head of Supply Chain Logistics & Production Planning (f/m/x)

Carl Zeiss SMT GmbH; Oberkochen; On-site; EUR 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

C?arl Zeiss SMT GmbH in Germany seeks an experienced leader to drive strategic initiatives in Supply Chain Logistics and Operations Planning. You will independently manage cross-functional projects, guiding teams from problem statement to measurable transformation.

You bring a strong background in production control, SAP, MES, and Lean/Six Sigma methodologies, with fluent German and English. You will shape change processes and coach senior stakeholders to achieve operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Technical degree in mechanical engineering, industrial engineering or science-based field.

Responsibilities

• Independent management of strategic, cross-functional projects; lead interdisciplinary teams from problem statement to implementation.

Skills

Strategic project leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Data-driven problem solving

Agile/Lean thinking

Education

Engineering degree (Mechanical / Industrial) or science-based degree

MBA (optional)

Tools

SAP

MES

Job description

ZEISS Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology Enabler of smaller, more powerful and more energy-efficient microchips Working where tomorrow is created. What is the one component no smartphone can do without? Exactly - the microchip, the heart of every electronically controlled system. Around 80 percent of all microchips worldwide are manufactured using ZEISS technologies. ZEISS is a technology leader in semiconductor manufacturing equipment. With ultra-precise lithography optics, photomask systems and process control solutions, ZEISS enables the production of ever smaller, more powerful and more energy-efficient microchips - and, through its innovations, plays a key role in shaping the age of micro-and nanoelectronics.

About us

The SMT-OL area is responsible for the strategic, tactical, and operational planning of machines, personnel, and production materials as well as the operational material flow. We think in holistic solutions with end-to-end, standardized, digital, transparent processes to ensure on-time SMT supply and customer delivery. By combining visionary end-to-end planning with AI-assisted tools, we proactively make data-driven decisions and secure long-term competitive advantages. Under strict use of SAP-centered tools, we create consistency, efficiency, and governance across the entire value chain.

Your role

Support the area leadership in the development, structuring, and implementation of strategic initiatives in Supply Chain Logistics and Operations Planning. Independent management of strategic, cross-functional projects; leading interdisciplinary teams from problem statement to implementation. Analysis of complex operational/strategic questions; development of robust decision options; preparation of management and decision papers. Support the departments in achieving area goals; drive strategic priorities in collaboration with those responsible. Design of transformation and change processes; ensure measurable operational impact from concepts. Preparation, moderation, and consistent tracking of steering committees, strategy meetings, and management workshops. Promotion of cross-functional experience and best-practice exchange; identification of synergies in logistics and planning; impulses for digitization, automation, and operational excellence. Coordination of external consultants, service providers, and internal service units; sparring partner to the area leadership; taking on increasing responsibility for strategically relevant topics.

Your profile

With a successfully completed technical degree (e.g., mechanical engineering, Industrial Engineering) or a science-based university degree, you have solid foundations as well as a solution-oriented mindset. You bring several years of experience, ideally 5+ years, in strategic or cross-functional projects in supply chain, logistics, production planning, operations, or value stream optimization, and you deliver measurable results. Independent management of complex projects as well as leadership of interdisciplinary teams are part of your profile; your communication and moderation skills across hierarchical levels set you apart. A deep understanding of industrial production and supply chain processes, as well as solid knowledge in production control, SAP, MES, and relevant IT systems, complement your profile. Your methodological competence in Lean Management, KVP, Six Sigma, or comparable Operational Excellence approaches is strongly developed; your analytical, structured working style supports you in addressing complex questions. You also work agile, flexible, and show pronounced resilience. Entrepreneurial thinking, high initiative, and a will to implement; you shape changes sustainably and adapt your approach to changing conditions. You possess fluent German and English skills and work goal-oriented with high social skills toward common goals, ideally bringing a relevant additional qualification (e.g., MBA) or consulting experience.

Your ZEISS Recruiting Team: Simone Kundler, Werner Baldauf

Step out of your comfort zone, excel and redefine the limits of what is possible. That's just what our employees are doing every single day - in order to set the pace through our innovations and enable outstanding achievements. After all, behind every successful company are many great fascinating people. In a spacious modern setting full of opportunities for further development, ZEISS employees work in a place where expert knowledge and team spirit reign supreme. All of this is supported by a special ownership structure and the long-term goal of the Carl Zeiss Foundation: to bring science and society into the future together. Join us today. Inspire people tomorrow.

Diversity is a part of ZEISS. We look forward to receiving your application regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, philosophy of life, disability, age, sexual orientation or identity.