Head of Engineering - Plant Based Food Manufacturing

Head of Engineering - Plant Based Food Manufacturing

European Tech Recruit are working closely with an exciting plant based food tech company, based in Berlin, who are looking for a talented Head of Engineering to join their team.

In this role you will be responsible for leading the engineering organization, defining the technical strategy, and building scalable systems that power an innovative food technology platform. As a hands‑on technical leader, you’ll guide a team of engineers while ensuring the delivery of robust, scalable solutions that meet ambitious product and business goals.

Responsibilities

• Build & Scale New Production Facility: Expand the client’s food production capacity by 10–20× within 12 months. Following a successful nationwide supermarket launch in Germany, design, construct, and commission a fully automated production facility from the ground up. Lead equipment selection, site development, and automation integration to deliver Germany’s most advanced food production line.
• Technical Project Leadership: Oversee complex, multidisciplinary engineering projects across mechanical, electrical, and automation domains. Move seamlessly between strategic planning and hands‑on problem‑solving, guiding projects from concept through detailed implementation.
• Cross‑Functional Project Management: Direct large‑scale engineering initiatives involving contractors, suppliers, and internal teams. Coordinate closely with R&D, operations, QA, regulatory, and supply chain to ensure smooth execution. Act as the bridge between food scientists, engineers, and business stakeholders. Lead an 8‑person in‑house engineering team for machine development, prototyping, and integration.
• Resource Planning & Allocation: Develop and manage detailed project resource plans, covering budget forecasting, headcount, and equipment procurement. Optimize resource use across parallel projects while balancing competing priorities.
• Risk Management & Mitigation: Identify and assess technical, operational, and business risks. Implement proactive mitigation strategies and robust project controls to ensure early detection and resolution of issues.
• Team Leadership & Development: Build and lead a high‑performing engineering team. Provide mentorship, set clear performance goals, and establish growth pathways to foster long‑term career development.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Electrical or Mechatronics Engineering, with a strong foundation in machine design, materials science, and automation systems.
• 10 years of mechanical engineering experience in automated manufacturing with at least 5 years in leadership roles managing mechanical, electrical, controls/software engineering, and/or automation engineering teams. Proven track record in food technology or advanced manufacturing environments with automated systems.
• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD), electrical and controls software, specifically EPLAN, Beckhoff and Siemens, mechanical simulation tools, and design for manufacturing principles.
• Experience with precision machinery design, material selection, and mechanical system optimization for high‑volume production environments.
• Experience in critical hygiene environments, and equipment design requirements for hygienic manufacturing.
• Understanding of applicable safety and technical standards including VDE100, DGUV V3, EU Machinery Directive, EN 60204‑1, and related industrial compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross‑functional teams, align diverse stakeholders, and communicate effectively across levels.
• A proactive, solutions‑oriented mindset with the ability to adapt quickly in a fast‑paced, dynamic startup environment.
• Fluency in English and German, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.

If this role is of any interest please apply directly on LinkedIn or send a copy of your CV to nh@eu-recruit.com.

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Seniority level

• Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

• Full‑time

Job function

• Engineering, Management, and Project Management

Industries

• Food and Beverage Manufacturing, Manufacturing, and Industrial Machinery Manufacturing