Lead engineer - Optical Fiber interconnects(m/f/d)

ficonTEC Service GmbH is a global technology leader in automated assembly and testing systems for photonic and optoelectronic devices. Since 2001, our solutions have enabled customers worldwide to manufacture cutting-edge components such as co-packaged optics, high-speed transceivers, LiDAR modules, and next-generation optical I/O.

Our systems combine high-precision motion control, fiber alignment, machine vision, and laser-based interconnect technologies — all essential for building the photonic infrastructure behind AI, autonomous driving, quantum technologies, and high-performance computing.

We are growing and looking for talented people who want to shape the future of photonics.

Are you looking for a job in a forward-looking industry? Then become part of our strong and experienced team as a:

Lead engineer - Optical Fiber interconnects (m/f/d)
R&D – Photonics Packaging & Precision Automation
immediately & full time

Why this role is exciting:

• Work on state-of-the-art optical fiber alignment and packaging for AI/datacenter applications
• Design and test co-packaged optics and optical I/O technologies
• Shape photonic solutions used by hyperscalers, automotive suppliers, quantum companies, and advanced manufacturing
• Drive innovation in a fast-growing photonics company and grow into a leadership role with full support from R&D management

This position is also highly suitable for candidates with experience in high-precision automation, fiber processing, cable assembly, or connector manufacturing who want to move into next-generation photonics.

Technical Leadership & Collaboration

• Lead and support a team of engineers and researchers working on optical fiber interconnect technologies
• Foster a motivating, collaborative, and growth-oriented team culture
• Grow gradually into leadership responsibilities with mentorship from R&D management

• Manage customer-driven, internal, and publicly funded projects
• Drive the development of fiber alignment, optical packaging, and co-packaged optics concepts

• Stay actively involved in lab activities: prototyping, characterization, assembly trials, metrology, and testing
• Evaluate and refine new process concepts and precision automation approaches

• Shape the technical roadmap for fiber interconnects together with R&D, Business Development, and Sales
• Contribute to long-term planning for optical I/O, AI-related interconnects, and advanced packaging

• Work closely with Sales, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Application teams for smooth project execution
• Interface with customers, vendors, and academic partners
• Present project outcomes confidently in internal and external settings

• Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, Physics, Photonics, Mechanical Engineering, or similar
• Minimum 3 years industrial experience in:
  • Photonics,
  • Fiber alignment,
  • Telecom/datacom,
  • High-precision automation
  • Optical connector technologies,
  • Or electrical cable/fiber assembly systems
• Strong motivation for people leadership and team development
• Inspiring, empathetic, and engaging personality
• Hands-on mentality and experience with experimental setups (mechanical, electrical, programming-related)
• Knowledge in optical fiber alignment, photonics packaging, or equivalent precision assembly processes
• Strong communication, analytical thinking, and project management skills
• Fluent English; German is an advantage

• Unlimited employment relationship & flexible working hours
• The opportunity to shape the future of photonics assembly for AI, datacenters, and advanced applications
• Appropriate remuneration opportunities & company pension plan
• Daycare allowance for children up to the age of 3
• Bike leasing
• Distinctive prospects incl. international career opportunities
• Exciting, international clients from a wide range of industries
• Professional Onboarding program and individual support
• Annual employee appraisals for your targeted and individual development/personal development
• Company fitness and discount opportunities for employees (e.g., City for two, benefits app)
• Company pension scheme and other benefits
• Top hardware incl. ergonomic workplace conditions
• Of course: regular company events (e.g., summer party, Christmas party, B2Run)

You can find out more about ficonTEC here:
www.ficontec.com