Manufacturing Lead (m/f/d)

Our Mission

At Circus (Xetra: CA1), headquartered in Hamburg with offices in Berlin and Munich, we are pioneering global developments in on-demand autonomous food production. From creation to production and operation, we are driving a paradigm shift powered by seamlessly integrated robotics and transformative AI technology.

Our foundation rests on groundbreaking robotics development fueled by artificial intelligence—innovations that bridge the gap to true autonomous food automation. Just as autonomous driving is redefining urban life, we are reimagining the world of food.

Backed by a team of brilliant minds in Robotics, AI, Engineering, and Culinary Arts, and collaborating with industry-leading partners, we are transforming the food service experience. With the upcoming launch of the CA1, our first commercial autonomous kitchen system, and additional product versions in development, we are redefining the intersection of technology and culinary arts.

Join us as we revolutionize the way the world creates, serves, and experiences food.

About the Role

We are seeking a Manufacturing Lead to establish and oversee the manufacturing processes, equipment setup, and production facilities for the CA1, as well as other versions of our autonomous kitchen systems currently in development. Initially, you will work closely with our manufacturing partners to ensure scalable, high-quality production. As the department grows, this role has the potential to evolve into the Head of Manufacturing, leading a dedicated team and shaping our production strategy.

Your Daily Business

• Lead the manufacturing setup and processes for the CA1 and future product iterations, from factory layouts to equipment optimization.

• Define manufacturing process for the CA1 product. Collaborate with the development team on the DFM to ensure the product is ready for mass production.

• Act as the primary contact with manufacturing partners to ensure production readiness and scalability.

• Oversee cost reviews, production approaches, and factory integration to achieve operational excellence.

• Ensure seamless delivery, deployment, and installation of production units at customer sites.

• Collaborate closely with R&D, Engineering, and Quality teams to maintain product quality and innovation standards.

• Build and lead the manufacturing department as we scale, including recruitment and training.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance production efficiency and reduce costs.

Base Qualifications

• Proven experience in manufacturing leadership roles, particularly in robotics, automation, or industrial production.

• Strong expertise in setting up and scaling high-volume production facilities, including factory and equipment setup.

• Experience in transitioning products from R&D to high-volume production.

• Effective communication skills and cultural awareness for managing relationships with international manufacturing partners.

• Hands-on experience in deployment, installation, and commissioning of complex production systems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Engineering background with expertise in process automation, industrial robotics, or manufacturing technology.

• Start-up mindset with a proactive, problem-solving approach.

Our Offer

• Competitive Compensation: Receive a competitive compensation package with offered stock options for full-time employees.
• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy regular team events, a hybrid work setup, 2 months/year remote work (Worcation), and unlimited vacation days, along with a corporate pension plan.
• Personal Development: 500€ personal budget for training, in-house trainings, and growth opportunities in a fast-paced environment.
• Mobility: Benefit from a 50€ monthly budget for mobility or other expenses and a subsidized Dance Mobility Subscription for E-Bike/E-Moped.
• Well-Being: Get access to discounted Urban Sports Club membership and Wellhub for a variety of well-being offerings.