Project Manager Operational Excellence

About AZUR SPACE Solar Power GmbH

AZUR SPACE Solar Power GmbH is the European market leader and a global player in the development and production of solar cells to power satellites and high end terrestrial photovoltaic applications. In business since 1964, the current global market for space solar cells is going through an unprecedented growth, creating unique opportunities. Late 2021, AZUR Space joined 5N Plus Inc., a Canadian supplier of specialty semiconductors and performance materials essential to critical industries, from different locations of Germany.

Mission

As a Project Manager Operational Excellence, you will support the Operational Excellence Director in driving the strategic development and continuous improvement of our highly advanced semiconductor and cleanroom manufacturing processes for space applications. You will lead data-driven improvement initiatives, optimize value streams, and ensure sustainable process stability and highest quality standards in a technologically demanding production environment. We are looking for a strongly semiconductor-minded professional with a clear focus on scalable processes and high-volume manufacturing excellence.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute strategic Operational Excellence and Lean Six Sigma initiatives within wafer and cleanroom manufacturing
• Analyze, standardize, and optimize complex semiconductor production processes across the entire value chain
• Drive process improvements with a strong focus on scalability, repeatability, and high-volume production readiness
• Conduct value stream mapping and implement sustainable improvement measures
• Apply structured problem-solving methodologies (DMAIC, Root Cause Analysis, SPC, FMEA)
• Ensure stable, robust, and scalable manufacturing processes under cleanroom conditions
• Define, monitor, and continuously improve relevant production KPIs (yield, throughput, cycle time, OEE)
• Plan and facilitate workshops and training sessions on Lean and continuous improvement methodologies
• Develop and implement Operational Excellence standards, governance structures, and best practices
• Collaborate closely with Production, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Management
• Support technology transfers, process ramp-ups, and production scaling activities
• Promote a high-performance culture focused on operational efficiency and manufacturing excellence

Profile

• Degree in Physics, Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Production Engineering or a comparable field
• Several years of experience in operational excellence, production or project management in semiconductor, microelectronics, or high-tech manufacturing environments
• Strong semiconductor manufacturing mindset and understanding of wafer fabrication environments
• High mass production / high-volume manufacturing mindset with strong focus on scalability, yield improvement, and process stability
• Strong expertise in Lean Management and Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt preferred)
• Experience with cleanroom or wafer manufacturing processes is highly desirable
• Strong analytical mindset and experience with data-driven process improvement and statistical methods
• Proven experience in change management and cross-functional project leadership
• Structured, solution-oriented working style with strong stakeholder management skills
• Fluent in English and German

We offer

• Opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge technologies for space and high-performance applications
• High level of responsibility and impact in strategic improvement initiatives
• Professional development opportunities in an international high-tech environment
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Collaborative company culture with short decision-making processes