Project Manager, Strategic Initiatives, LDRS

Focused Energy is the leading laser-driven fusion company pursuing the most promising path to clean, limitless fusion power. The global company, based in Darmstadt, Germany and the San Francisco Bay Area, has brought together the top scientific and engineering minds using proven technologies to unlock fusion power at commercial scale. Focused Energy is working to unleash the next chapter of economic growth and scientific innovation through the widespread adoption of clean, abundant fusion power.

At Focused Energy, we are developing NeoLyte, a breakthrough initiative that pioneers compact, laser-driven radiation sources (LDRS) based on high-power laser technology. These dual-mode sources combine MeV X-rays and fast neutrons in a single system. The platform is modular and enables real-time, non-destructive inspection of materials, even when those that are complex or shielded.

NeoLyte’s technology addresses critical challenges across nuclear waste analysis, contraband detection, infrastructure inspection, and medical isotope production. With its unique combination of resolution, material specificity, and deployment flexibility, LDRS opens up new possibilities far beyond conventional systems.

We bring together a cross-disciplinary team of laser and plasma physicists, engineers, and AI experts. We are building our first pilot facility in Biblis (Germany), with the goal to reach market readiness and commercial deployment quite soon.

Be part of shaping this deep-tech venture from the ground up!

As a Project Manager, Strategic Initiatives at LDRS/NeoLyte, you will be a key partner to the Director Product Development and Integration in establishing and scaling our company-wide Project Management Office. Your mission is to develop and implement standardized processes, structures and tools to ensure transparency, efficiency, and the successful execution of strategic initiatives across the company. You will act as the central point of contact for project management methodologies and take responsibility for critical projects. This role offers significant creative freedom and the unique opportunity to build the foundation for a scalable and effective organization in a dynamic deep-tech environment.

What you’ll do:

• Actively shape and implement project management structures, processes, tools and governance in close collaboration with team leadership.

• Project Leadership: Independently manage the operational planning, execution, and successful completion of selected strategic and company wide projects—from initiation to closure.

• Strategic Support: Support the Senior Leadership Team in strategic planning, the OKR process, and the translation of company goals into concrete, actionable project plans.

• Reporting & Transparency: Establish transparent and meaningful project reporting to provide the leadership team and stakeholders with a clear overview of project progress, risks, and resource allocation at all times.

• Fostering Collaboration: Actively promote cross-functional collaboration and communication by breaking down silos and acting as a facilitator between teams, enabling cohesion across different departments

• Within Product Development and Integration: Strengthen & continuously improve V-Model methodology across different technical development projects

Who you are:

• 3+ years of professional experience in project management, a PMO, or management consulting, ideally in a technology-driven or fast-growing environment.

• Proven experience in defining, implementing, and optimizing project management processes and structures in a technical environment

• Certifications in common project management methodologies (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2, SAFe Agile) are advantageous.

• A "hands-on" mentality combined with strategic foresight and the ability to structure complex issues clearly.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills to create buy-in for new processes and unite teams.

• A high degree of independence, initiative, and a solution-oriented approach to work.

• Proficiency with common project management tools (e.g., Asana, Jira, Monday.com).

• Fluency in English is required; strong German language skills are a major plus.

What we offer:

• Innovative Technology & Mission: Be part of a cutting-edge company working on groundbreaking research in clean energy and scientific discovery.

• Career Development: We invest in our people. This is an opportunity to join an early, growing company at the forefront of new technology, where you’ll have the opportunity to develop and grow your career.

• Collaborative Culture: Work with grea