Senior Project Engineer - Research Development & Coordination (Team Lead track)

ETH Zurich seeks a Senior Project Engineer in Lugano to lead AI and automation research projects, bridging academic innovation with industrial application and offering a path to team leadership.

This position operates at the intersection of applied research and industrial implementation, combining direct technical delivery with the strategic acquisition and coordination of projects. The role is designed for a professional who can manage complex initiatives while gradually taking on greater leadership responsibilities, with a clear prospect of moving into a team lead capacity.

Responsibilities

• Execute technical tasks related to AI, automation, and predictive quality for industrial use cases.
• Manage industry and grant-funded projects, handling both technical execution and organizational oversight.
• Identify and secure new project opportunities, developing ideas from initial concept through to launch.
• Plan, conduct, and oversee pre-studies and feasibility assessments.
• Draft proposals for industry contracts and funding bodies such as Innosuisse and Eurostars.
• Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with other research entities and external partners.
• Assist the group head with administrative and organizational duties.

Requirements

• A doctoral degree in engineering, specifically focused on industrial applications.
• Demonstrated expertise in artificial intelligence and advanced proficiency in Python.
• Minimum of three years of experience in applied research or industrial R&D environments.
• Excellent command of the English language.
• Fluency in at least one of German, Italian, or French.
• Holding CH/EU/EFTA citizenship or possessing a valid Swiss work permit.

Nice to have

• Proficiency in additional national languages is considered an asset.

What the company offers

• A full-time role at the forefront of AI for manufacturing, with a clear pathway to team leadership.
• Engaging projects that span both academic research and industrial practice.
• A flexible, self-organized work culture that encourages autonomy.
• Opportunities to build a professional network through close cooperation with project partners.
• Support for attending conferences, workshops, and exhibitions.
• Mentorship and internal training provided by experienced professionals to foster career growth.

About the company

The research group at ETH Zurich specializes in developing AI algorithms for industrial applications. The environment is characterized by a fast-moving and dynamic pace, seeking solution-oriented individuals who combine technical depth with a proactive, curious mindset.

• Focus on developing AI algorithms specifically for industrial contexts.
• A dynamic and fast-paced work environment.
• Value placed on solution-oriented, highly motivated individuals with a can-do attitude.