Supply Chain Engineer (f/m/d)

Job description

About Focused Energy Focused Energy is an international deep-tech company based in Germany and the US, working to commercialize laser-driven nuclear fusion. Our mission is to provide clean, safe, and virtually unlimited energy to the world. We are rapidly scaling and looking for talented individuals who thrive in building clarity and structure within fast-growing environments. We are seeking a Supply Chain Engineer to lead the sourcing, development, and delivery of complex engineering systems and components across our programs. This is not a traditional procurement role. You will operate at the intersection of engineering, manufacturing, and supplier development, ensuring that critical components—from precision optics and vacuum systems to mechanical assemblies and control hardware—are technically viable, manufacturable, and delivered on time. You will embed within engineering teams and take ownership of supply chain strategy as part of system delivery, not as a downstream function. Key Responsibilities Engineering-Aligned Supply Chain Partner directly with Mechanical, Electrical, and Controls teams to define supply strategies aligned to system design. Translate engineering requirements into sourcing and manufacturing plans. Ensure early supplier involvement in concept and design phases. Supplier Identification & Development Identify, qualify, and develop suppliers for high-spec, first-of-a-kind components. Build long-term partnerships with key vendors across Europe and globally. Assess supplier technical capability, capacity, and scalability. Technical Procurement & Delivery Support procurement of complex systems (e.g. vacuum equipment, precision machining, diagnostics hardware, control systems). Manage RFQs, technical bid evaluations, and supplier selection in collaboration with engineering. Drive on-time delivery while maintaining technical and quality requirements. Manufacturing & Build Strategy Define make vs buy strategies in collaboration with engineering leadership. Support development of manufacturing routes for bespoke components. Ensure design for manufacturability (DfM) is embedded early. Quality & Compliance Establish quality expectations and inspection strategies with suppliers. Support FAT/SAT processes and acceptance criteria definition. Ensure traceability and documentation standards are met. Cost & Risk Management Develop cost models and c…