Manufacturing Engineer (f/m/d)

Job Description

For our location in Freiburg im Breisgau, we are looking for a Manufacturing Engineer (f/m/d). In this role you will have the opportunity to contribute to the commercialization of groundbreaking technology. At NexWafe, we are redefining how silicon wafers are manufactured. Our epitaxial wafer technology reduces process steps, energy consumption, and CO₂ footprint-setting a new benchmark for next-generation photovoltaics. As a Manufacturing Engineer (f/m/d), you will be a key contributor in transferring prototype learnings into robust, production‑ready tools for high‑volume wafer manufacturing. You will work closely with process development, design engineering, and machine builders to turn complex requirements into clear equipment specifications and ensure that new production tools meet NexWafe's performance, safety, and quality standards.

Your Mission

• Translate technical, process, and operational requirements into functional specifications for customized automated process equipment.
• Act as tool owner for assigned production tools and be the primary technical contact during design, build, commissioning, and ramp‑up.
• Aggregate requirements from cross-functional experts (process, automation, safety, operations) into comprehensive specification documents.
• Evaluate vendor proposals and lead technical alignment-including design reviews, risk assessments, and acceptance criteria definition.
• Plan and manage equipment-related project timelines to ensure readiness for factory launch schedules.
• Support system integration, commissioning, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of tools across the production floor.
• Drive cost-awareness and creative problem solving to ensure technical solutions meet performance and budget targets.

Your profile

Hard Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• 3-5 years of relevant industry experience (semiconductor, PV, custom machinery, automation, precision equipment manufacturing, or similar).
• Experience developing and writing specifications for special-purpose automated equipment.
• Strong background in requirements engineering across multiple technical disciplines.
• Hands-on experience evaluating machine builder proposals and supporting equipment design and acceptance phases.
• Familiarity with automation systems, sensors, and PLC-controlled equipment (no programming required; functional understanding is sufficient).
• Knowledge in machine design, automation handling systems, and project management.
• Experience with commissioning, FAT, and SAT for automated equipment.

Soft Skills

• Strong communication skills in English OR German.
• Self-starter with problem-solving mindset and willingness to explore new topics (e.g., CVD processes, silicon wafer handling).
• High sense of ownership, urgency, and drive for project completion.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and maintain oversight in a dynamic environment.
• Collaborative attitude and willingness to work closely with external vendors and internal cross-functional teams.

Why us?

• A diverse team: Short decision-making processes, flat hierarchies and collaboration with experts from different areas await you.
• A diverse and exciting job: A company that contributes to the commercialisation of environmentally friendly solar energy with a low carbon footprint.
• Stability with a certain degree of flexibility: A permanent position with flexible working hours.
• Attractive remuneration programme: An attractive salary, a company pension scheme and profit-sharing for employees.
• Healthy balance: Take your physical and mental health to the next level with an annual health budget and a HanseFit membership!
• Expand your language skills: Optimise your career prospects with the English and German courses offered.