R&D Project Manager (m/f/d) - RFID + Access Control Hardware

at  Elatec GmbH

Hidden champion - this not only applies very well to ELATEC as a company, but also to our RFID readers and Access Control solutions. Hardly anyone notices them, and yet they are omnipresent when you authenticate yourself using an access card, RFID transponder or mobile phone. When accessing the office in the morning , the printer in the open-plan office, in the elevator or at the charging station. With over 35 years of experience, we are one of the technology leaders and even the world market leader in some segments.
R&D Project Manager (m/f/d) - RFID + Access Control Hardware*
Puchheim
Permanent
Fulltime
Development

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• Degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field with a focus on radio engineering or electronics.
• Proven experience (5 years) leading R&D projects in the field of hardware engineering, preferably with a focus on radio components and PCBs.
• Excellent project management skills, with a track record of successfully delivering complex R&D projects on time and within budget.
• Expertise in managing electronic manufacturing services for both components and finished products.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams.
• Passion to support and guide technical experts with hands on know-how but leaving enough space for the project team to develop and grow.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, with a flexible and adaptable approach to problem-solving.
• Prior experience in industrial research and development environments is highly desirable.
• Fluency in English and at least conversational German.

Position Overview: As the R&D Project Manager for RFID based components and access control products, including but not limited to RFID-readers, intelligent terminals, and access controllers (edge controllers) you will guide and manage the research and development activities critical to our technological advancement. Collaborating closely with a multidisciplinary team of engineers, product managers and both internal and external stakeholders, you will lead the conceptualization, design, prototyping and early productization phases of our product development projects. Your role will be pivotal in supporting driving innovation, overcoming technical challenges, and translating ideas into tangible solutions. This position offers an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of RFID-based technology and access control development within a dynamic and collaborative environment.

• Lead the R&D projects focused on RFID based hardware components (PCBs and finished products) and access control products (access controllers and intelligent terminals), from ideation through proof of concept to ready for series production.
• Define project objectives, technical requirements, and success criteria in alignment with stakeholder goals and market demands.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams of hardware, firmware and mechanical engineers, product managers and electronic manufacturing services, providing guidance and support throughout the development process.
• Oversee prototype and 0-series fabrication and testing activities, ensuring adherence to project timelines and quality standards.
• Collaborate with external partners and industry experts regarding qualification and certification of the components and products according to industry and legal regulations, especially international RF standards.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, competitive landscapes, and technological advancements, providing insights and recommendations to inform future R&D initiatives.
• Plan and document project progress, results, and lessons learned, and communicate findings effectively to internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Manage and mitigate the risks arising from technical challenges and tight timelines.