Chief Technology Manager of Optical Manufacturing and Technology

Chief Technology Manager of Optical Manufacturing and Technology

Working at the VUB

For more than 50 years, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel has stood for freedom, equality and solidarity , and this is very much alive on our campuses among students and staff alike.

At the VUB, you will find a diverse collection of personalities: innovators pur sang, but above all people who are 100% their authentic selves . With some 4,000 employees , we are the largest Dutch-speaking employer, in the private sector, in Brussels ; an international city with which we are only too happy to connect and where (around) our 4 campuses are located.

Add to this our principle of free research - in whichself-reflection, a critical attitude and an open, creative mind aroundscientific and social issues are central - and you have a universitythat is fundamentally groundbreaking and pioneering in education andresearch. In short: the VUB all over again .

Moreover, the VUB is a member of EUTOPIA , an alliance of like-minded European universities, all ready to reinvent themselves.

The Brussels Photonics Team (B-PHOT) at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) has been at the forefront of photonics research, technology development, and innovation for more than 30 years.

Through its unique Extreme Optics Pilot Line , B-PHOT offers a complete value chain for the design, prototyping, manufacturing, characterisation, and validation of advanced optical and opto‑mechanical components and systems. Combining state‑of‑the‑art optical design capabilities, ultraprecision manufacturing platforms, replication technologies, and a dedicated optical metrology cleanroom, B-PHOT is internationally recognised as a leading centre of excellence in extreme optics and photonics engineering.

B-PHOT currently brings together more than 70 experts , including researchers, engineers, and technology specialists, working closely with industrial and academic partners across Europe and beyond. More information can be found on our website. To discover our facilities at the VUB Photonics Innovation Campus in Pajottegem , visit .

As Manager of Optical Manufacturing and Technology , you will hold a pivotal leadership position within the B-PHOT Extreme Optics Pilot Line. You will oversee the daily operation of the pilot‑line infrastructure and ensure the successful execution of technology development, prototyping, manufacturing, and characterisation activities.

You will lead a multidisciplinary team of technology experts and serve as a key link between researchers, engineers, industrial clients, and strategic partners. Your role combines technical leadership, operational management, and people development within one of Europe's most advanced photonics innovation environments.

Your key responsibilities include:

• Providing day‑to‑day leadership, coaching, and technical guidance to the team of technology experts operating the Extreme Optics Pilot Line.
• Coordinating and supervising activities related to optical design, ultraprecision manufacturing, replication technologies, assembly, testing, and metrology.
• Ensuring the efficient, safe, and reliable operation of the pilot‑line infrastructure.
• Contributing to the strategic development and continuous improvement of B‑PHOT's manufacturing and metrology capabilities.
• Working closely with researchers and industrial partners to translate innovative concepts into manufacturable and scalable solutions.
• Supporting technology transfer, industrial innovation projects, and collaborative R&D activities at Flemish, European, and international level.
• Identifying opportunities for process optimization, technology upgrades, and operational excellence throughout the pilot line.
• Fostering a culture of quality, innovation, teamwork, and continuous learning.

Profile

What do we expect from you?

• You hold a Master's degree in Engineering Technology or Engineering Sciences, specialization Mechanical Engineering, Electromechanics, Optics, Photonics, Physics, Electronics, Industrial Engineering , or a related discipline . A PhD is considered an asset.
• You have at least 5–10 years of relevant experience in advanced manufacturing, photonics, precision engineering, optics, or a related high‑technology environment.
• You have demonstrable experience in the operation, management, or development of advanced manufacturing and/or metrology infrastructures.
• You possess a solid understanding of CAD/CAM environments , precision manufacturing technologies, and industrial production workflows.
• Experience with ultra‑precision machining, diamond turning, injection moulding, replication