Senior Manager, Robotic Platforms Engineering - M/F/D

About NavflexAt Navflex, we're pioneering the future of logistics automation through cutting-edge AI androbotics. Our autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are transforming the way goods are loadedand unloaded, enabling plug-and-play solutions that streamline operations and enhanceefficiency across the global supply chain for some of the world’s most demanding warehouseEnvironments. Our international, cross‑disciplinary team in the EU and USA pairs robust mechatronics with cutting‑edge navigation and perception to deliver safe, reliable autonomy in real‑world warehouses and yards. Join us in shaping the future of intelligent logistics. What makes us differentWe bring hardware and AI into production, not just prototypesWe work directly with real warehouse operations and customer environmentsWe build systems that must be safe, reliable, and economically viable What you can expect at the Munich TeamYou will join a highly skilled, hands-on engineering team working at the intersection of robotics, product development, and real-world deployment, with direct impact on systems used by global customers. What We OfferThe opportunity to work on robotics systems that are already used in real-world environmentsA role where you can actively shape systems and see the impact of your workA collaborative, international team with diverse backgrounds and perspectivesPlenty of room for personal and professional growth as we continue to scaleChallenging work alongside experienced engineers who are passionate about what they doA culture that values ownership, learning, and continuous improvementCompetitive compensationThe RoleThe Manager, Robotic Platforms Engineering is responsible for executing and delivering our mobile robotic platforms (hardware and software) while serving as a senior on-site engineering leader in Germany. This role ensures hardware systems are built, validated, and deployed reliably, supports system-level integration with robotics software and algorithms, and provides day-to-day technical guidance and people leadership to the Munich-based team, including coaching, performance management, and team development.Why this role mattersThis role plays a key role in advancing Navflex’s European innovation footprint through university collaborations and participation in EU research and innovation programs.Success Measures - Success in this role will be measured by:Reliable, on-time delivery of platform milestonesHardware performance, durability, and fleet reliability in live deploymentsQuality and completeness of validation and test evidenceEffectiveness of on-site technical leadership and support for the Munich teamGrowth, engagement, and performance of direct reportsQuality of collaboration with software and algorithms teams at the system levelProgress in establishing academic partnerships and supporting EU-funded R&D initiativesWhat You’ll DoRobotic Platforms Hardware Execution & DeliveryExecute robotic platform’s hardware development and aligned with product requirementsTranslate requirements into executable hardware workstreams, schedules, and technical plansDrive delivery of prototypes, pilot units, and production-ready robotic systemsEnsure platform’s hardware designs meet requirements for reliability, safety, manufacturability, and serviceabilityPeople Management & Team DevelopmentDirectly manage a team of hardware engineers based in Munich, including hiring, onboarding, and performance managementSet clear expectations, provide regular feedback, and conduct performance reviewsIdentify development opportunities and support the growth of each team memberFoster a high-performance, collaborative team culture that attracts and retains strong engineering talentPartner with leadership and HR on compensation, leveling, and organizational planning for the Munich teamOn-Site Technical LeadershipAct as the primary technical reference point on site in MunichProvide hands-on technical guidance, mentorship, and direction to the local engineering teamSupport cross-team alignment and day-to-day problem solving across hardware, software, algorithms, and field activitiesRepresent engineering leadership locally with partners, customers, and collaboratorsSystem-Level Robotics UnderstandingMaintain a working knowledge of Navflex’s robotics software stack and core algorithmsPartner closely with Software and Algorithms teams to ensure effective hardware - software co-design and integrationIdentify system-level integration risks early and drive appropriate engineering trade-offsResearch Grants & Innovation (EU focus)Build relationships with European universities, applied research institutes, and innovation partnersSupport joint research initiatives aligned with Navflex’s technical roadmapContribute to relevant EU research and innovation programs (e.g., Horizon Europe)Provide technical expertise and coordination for grant proposals and funded projectsWhat You’ll BringCore ExpertiseHardware engineering for robotics, automation, or electromechanical systemsDeployment and validation of robotic mobile platforms in real-world operational environmentsSystem-level integration of hardware with robotics software and algorithmsApplied research collaboration and European innovation ecosystemsDirect management of engineering teams, including performance management and team developmentCore SkillsStrong execution and deliveryHands-on leadership and mentoringStructured problem-solvingClear communication across disciplines and culturesAbility to operate effectively without formal authorityEngineering judgment in complex, real-world environmentsAbility to attract, develop, and retain engineering talentQualificationsMaster’s degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field8+ years of experience in hardware engineering, robotics, automation, or electromechanical systems2+ years of direct people management experience in an engineering environmentExperience leading hardware engineering efforts in production or deployment environmentsWorking knowledge of robotics software and algorithmsExperience collaborating with external OEMs, suppliers, or research partnersProfessional fluency in EnglishWillingness to travel up to 25%Preferred, But Not RequiredExperience with AMRs, forklifts, or industrial automation platformsPrior involvement in university research collaborations or EU-funded programsFamiliarity with Horizon Europe or similar R&D funding mechanismsExperience working in international or distributed engineering teamsExposure to safety-critical or regulated systems (ISO, CE, ANSI)German language proficiencyIf you’re excited about building robotic systems that don’t just work in theory, but perform reliably in complex, real-world environments, we’d like to hear from you.Find Jobs in Germany on Arbeitnow