Head of Robotics & Automation Engineering (f/m/d)

About the role

At Circus (Xetra: CA1), headquartered in Munich, we are pioneering global developments in on-demand autonomous food production. Everything from creation to production and operation - enabled by seamlessly integrated cutting-edge robotics and transformative AI technology. Our foundation rests in the extensive developments of groundbreaking robotics driven by artificial intelligence, previously the missing link in achieving true autonomous food automation. This is the moment for a new status quo: Just as autonomous driving will disrupt how we build cities, organize our days, and live our lives, so will we shift our whole reality around food. Our Team is backing a paradigm shift in one of humanity's most important sectors with the sharpest minds in Robotics, AI, Engineering and Culinary, collaborating closely with industry-leading partners to revolutionize every aspect of the food service experience. Join us as we forge ahead, crafting a future where the art of cooking and the science of technology converge to create a world that thinks differently about food than it has for thousands of years-a world where food means something new. As Head of Robotics & Automation, you are responsible for building and leading the team that develops the core automation stack behind our robotic kitchen systems. You define the technical direction, ensure delivery across product milestones, and build a high-performing engineering organization across robotics, embedded systems, and industrial automation. This role sits at the intersection of technology, product, and real-world operations - working closely with mechanical, electrical, and product teams to bring complex systems into production. You'll have real ownership: over the architecture, the team, and the direction. Own the technical direction across robotics, embedded systems, and industrial automation - and stay close to the engineering Set up, drive, and own a modern approach for embedded programming in C++ and ROS2 Drive delivery from prototype to production-ready systems, hands-on where it matters Define and oversee architectural decisions together with the team Ensure tight integration between robotics software, control systems, and hardware Partner with product and operations to translate real-world requirements into scalable systems Establish engineering standards, processes, and team structure Lead, mentor, and grow the Robotics & Automation team 8+ years in robotics, automation, or related fields Proven experience leading and scaling technical teams Strong background in industrial automation (PLC, control systems) Strong understanding of robotics systems and embedded environments Expert-level C++ for embedded / real-time systems Experience delivering complex hardware-software systems into production Strong cross-functional collaboration skills Clear and structured communication across technical and non-technical stakeholders Competitive Compensation: Competitive compensation package with stock options for full-time employees. Work-Life Balance: Regular team events, hybrid work setup, 2 months/year remote work (Worcation), unlimited vacation days, and a corporate pension plan. Personal Development: Personal budget for training, in-house trainings, and growth opportunities in a fast-paced environment. Mobility: Monthly budget for mobility or other expenses, and a subsidized Mobility Subscription for E-Bike/E-Moped. Well-Being: Discounted Urban Sports Club membership and Wellhub for a variety of well-being offerings.