Prototyping Leader

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Prototyping Leader

Company: OP Mobility

Location: Lublin, Poland

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering & Operations Management

Date Posted: 2026-09-07

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and coordinate a team of engineers, coordinators, and technicians focused on prototype development and execution.

• Manage incoming requests, effectively assign tasks, and ensure efficient resource allocation for the prototyping department.

• Uphold stringent quality, timeline, and cost requirements for all prototype projects, driving operational excellence.

• Oversee technical methods, operational instructions, data integrity, and reporting within the prototyping scope.

• Champion continuous improvement initiatives for prototyping processes, methodologies, and equipment to enhance efficiency and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Prototyping Leader," encompasses significant operational management responsibilities within a technical engineering context. The emphasis on quality, timelines, costs, resource planning, and process improvement aligns it with a Revenue Operations or Operations Management function, specifically within a manufacturing and R&D-intensive industry like automotive mobility. The role requires a blend of technical acumen and leadership to drive the effective execution of prototype development.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Team Leadership & Coordination: Direct and manage a team of engineers, coordinators, and technicians, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.

• Project & Workflow Management: Oversee the intake and assignment of prototype requests, ensuring efficient workflow and task delegation to meet project demands.

• Quality, Cost, and Timeline Assurance: Ensure all prototyping activities adhere to established quality standards, meet deadlines, and remain within budgetary constraints.

• Resource Planning & Management: Plan team workload, forecast resource needs, and ensure the availability of necessary equipment, tools, and materials for prototype development.

• Technical Oversight & Approval: Review and approve technical methods, operational instructions, data sets, and project reports relevant to prototyping activities.

• Problem Resolution & Continuous Improvement: Supervise non-conformities, lead root cause analysis, and monitor corrective actions. Drive the ongoing enhancement of prototyping processes, methodologies, and equipment.

• HSEE & 5S Compliance: Ensure strict adherence to Health, Safety, Environment, and Ergonomics (HSEE) standards, as well as 5S workplace organization principles.

• Talent Development & Recruitment: Identify team competency gaps, coordinate training programs, and support recruitment efforts to build a skilled prototyping team.

• Confidentiality & Professionalism: Maintain the highest standards of confidentiality, impartiality, and professionalism in all aspects of work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed strongly indicate a need for robust process management and operational efficiency. The emphasis on "ensuring realization of activities according to quality, deadlines, and cost requirements," "planning team load and ensuring availability of equipment, tools, and resources," and "supporting continuous improvement of processes, work methods, and prototyping equipment" are hallmarks of operations management. This role will require strong skills in process mapping, optimization, and performance monitoring, akin to a Sales Operations or Revenue Operations role but applied to a product development lifecycle.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in a technical field such as Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electronics, Electrical Engineering, Programming, Robotics, or a related discipline. Experience:

• Proven professional experience in prototyping, engineering, or a similar technical environment.

• Demonstrated experience in coordinating or leading a technical team.

• Experience in project management and collaboration with internal clients or suppliers. Required Skills:

• Team Leadership: Ability to effectively lead, motivate, and manage a technical team.

• Prototyping Expertise: In-depth understanding of prototyping processes, methodologies, and best practices.

• Project Management: Proficiency in managing projects from initiation to completion, including scope, schedule, and budget.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills and experience with methodologies like 8D, 5M, and 5 Why for identifying and resolving technical issues.

• Data Analysis & Interpretation: Ability to analyze technical data, interpret results, and make informed decisions.

• English Proficiency: Minimum B2 level for effective communication in an international environment.

• Communication & Organization: Excellent verbal and written communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

• HSEE & 5S Standards: Knowledge and application of safety, environmental, and workplace organization standards.

Preferred Skills:

• Financial Acumen: Basic knowledge of financial tools and cost management principles.

• Technical Standards Knowledge: Familiarity with relevant technical standards, industry regulations, and legal requirements.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Experience working effectively with diverse internal teams and external stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the core requirements are technical and leadership-oriented, the "preferred skills" like basic financial acumen and familiarity with financial tools hint at the operational and business-oriented aspects of this role. For operations candidates, highlighting experience in budget management, cost optimization, and ROI analysis within technical projects will be crucial. The mention of specific problem-solving methodologies (8D, 5M, 5 Why) is a key indicator of the structured, process-driven approach expected.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Lifecycle Documentation: Showcase a portfolio demonstrating experience managing projects from concept through to prototype realization, highlighting key stages and decision points.

• Process Optimization Case Studies: Include detailed case studies of process improvements implemented within prototyping or engineering workflows, quantifying efficiency gains, cost reductions, or quality enhancements.

• Technical Problem-Solving Examples: Present examples of complex technical challenges encountered and the systematic approach used to diagnose and resolve them, referencing methodologies like 8D, 5M, or 5 Why.

• Resource Management & Planning: Demonstrate experience in resource allocation, workload balancing, and equipment/tool management within a technical team setting.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Implementation: Provide examples of designed or optimized prototyping workflows, illustrating how they ensured quality, timeliness, and cost-effectiveness.

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Showcase experience in developing or refining SOPs for technical processes, safety protocols, or quality control measures.

• Performance Measurement & Reporting: Include examples of how prototype development progress, team performance, and project outcomes were tracked, analyzed, and reported to stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an operations-focused candidate applying for this role, a portfolio should strongly emphasize the operational aspects of prototyping. This means not just showing successful prototypes, but demonstrating how they were achieved efficiently and effectively. This includes mapping out processes, identifying bottlenecks, implementing improvements with measurable results, and managing resources strategically. The portfolio should serve as a testament to the candidate's ability to drive operational excellence within a technical domain.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Prototyping Leader role in Lublin, Poland, with 5-10 years of experience, the estimated annual gross salary range is PLN 120,000 - PLN 180,000. This estimate considers the cost of living in Lublin, the specific technical and leadership demands of the role, and OP Mobility's standing as a global automotive group. Benefits:

• Stable Employment: Secure long-term employment within a reputable global organization.

• Comprehensive Health & Insurance: Subsidized private medical care and life insurance with a capital fund component.

• Wellness Support: Subsidized sports card for maintaining physical well-being.

• Professional Development: Support for foreign language learning and subsidized meals.

• Birthday Leave: An additional paid day off in the month of your birthday.

• Convenience: Free parking available on company premises.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours, typically 40 hours per week, with potential for flexibility depending on project demands and team needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on research from Polish job boards and international salary aggregators, factoring in the "Prototyping Leader" title, the specified experience level, and the Lublin location. Benefits are directly extracted from the job description, highlighted for their value to operations professionals who often appreciate stability, well-being support, and professional development opportunities. The mention of "40 hours" for working hours is an assumption based on typical full-time employment in Poland.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive & Mobility Technology, with a focus on sustainable and connected mobility solutions. OPmobility is a key player in developing advanced exterior and lighting systems, module integration, energy storage (hydrogen, electrification), and embedded software.

Company Size: OPmobility is a large global group with approximately 38,100 employees worldwide, operating 152 factories and 40 R&D centers across 28 countries.

Founded: Founded in 1946 by Pierre Burelle, OPmobility (formerly Plastic Omnium) has a long history of innovation and transformation in the automotive sector.

Team Structure:

• The Prototyping Leader will be part of the C-Power Business Group, located in Lublin, Poland.

• The team consists of engineers, coordinators, and technicians dedicated to prototype development.

• Reporting structure likely involves a direct report to a higher-level engineering or R&D manager within the C-Power group.

• Cross-functional collaboration is expected with R&D, design, manufacturing, quality assurance, and potentially sales/customer teams. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on analyzing technical data and using insights to guide prototype development and problem-solving.

• Process Optimization: A commitment to continuous improvement in workflows, methods, and equipment within the prototyping function.

• Innovation & Technology: A culture that embraces cutting-edge technologies and drives innovation for the future of automotive mobility.

• Safety & Sustainability: Strong adherence to HSEE standards and a focus on sustainable mobility solutions.

Company Website: https://careers.opmobility.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding OPmobility's scale and industry position is crucial for operations professionals. The company's focus on "sustainable and connected mobility" and its diverse technological expertise (energy storage, software, exterior systems) suggest a dynamic and forward-thinking environment. For operations roles, this implies opportunities to work with advanced technologies and contribute to impactful projects, requiring adaptability and a proactive approach to process management.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level leadership position within technical operations. It requires a blend of technical expertise, team management, and project oversight, making it a critical link between R&D and production.

Reporting Structure: The Prototyping Leader will likely report to a Director or VP of Engineering/R&D within the C-Power Business Group. They will directly manage a team of technical professionals.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the speed and quality of product development cycles. Effective prototype leadership accelerates innovation, reduces time-to-market for new mobility solutions, and ensures that designs are validated efficiently and cost-effectively, ultimately contributing to OPmobility's competitive edge and revenue generation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Potential to deepen expertise in specific areas like advanced materials, energy systems, or automotive electronics through exposure to diverse prototyping projects.

• Leadership Advancement: Opportunity to progress into higher-level engineering management roles, leading larger teams or broader functional areas within R&D or Operations.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Potential to move into roles in R&D project management, manufacturing engineering, or operational strategy, leveraging a strong understanding of the product development lifecycle.

• Global Exposure: As part of a global organization, opportunities may arise for international assignments or collaboration on global projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, this role offers a unique pathway to leverage their process and efficiency skills in a tangible product development context. The growth opportunities highlight the potential to move into strategic leadership positions where operational excellence drives business outcomes. The emphasis on "accelerating innovation" and "reducing time-to-market" directly ties the operational function to revenue and market success.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site at OPmobility's facility in Lublin, Poland. This suggests a blend of office-based work for planning, coordination, and reporting, with significant hands-on involvement in the prototyping workshop or laboratory.

Office Location(s): Lublin, Poland. This location provides access to a skilled technical workforce and positions the company within a significant industrial region.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workplace is designed to foster collaboration among engineers, technicians, and potentially other departments involved in product development.

• Technical Resources: Access to advanced prototyping equipment, tools, and technologies is a key feature of this environment, essential for innovation.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for daily interaction with the prototyping team, management, and potentially cross-functional project teams.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule will be full-time, likely aligned with typical business hours in Poland (e.g., Monday-Friday). However, the nature of prototyping often requires flexibility to meet project deadlines, which may involve occasional overtime or adjusted hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: An on-site role in a technical environment like a prototyping lab demands a practical, hands-on approach. Operations candidates should be prepared for a dynamic workspace where efficiency is balanced with the practicalities of physical product development. The emphasis on "advanced prototyping equipment" suggests that proficiency with relevant operational technologies and a methodical approach to managing physical resources will be valued.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review focusing on technical qualifications, leadership experience, and alignment with core responsibilities.

• Technical & Behavioral Interview: Likely conducted by the hiring manager and potentially senior engineers. Expect questions on technical problem-solving, team management, project execution, and behavioral scenarios (e.g., handling conflict, managing under pressure).

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present a selection of their work, focusing on specific projects that demonstrate leadership, process improvement, and successful prototype development.

• Case Study/Challenge: A potential assessment involving a hypothetical prototyping challenge or operational problem to gauge analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Final Interview: May involve HR and senior leadership to assess cultural fit, strategic alignment, and overall suitability for the role and OPmobility.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, the solution implemented, your specific role, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., time saved, cost reduced, quality improved).

• Showcase Leadership: Highlight instances where you led teams, mentored junior members, or influenced decision-making.

• Demonstrate Process Thinking: Illustrate how you applied structured methodologies (like 8D, 5M, 5 Why) to solve problems and optimize workflows.

• Quantify Achievements: Use data and metrics whenever possible to back up your claims of success.

• Tailor to the Role: Select examples that best align with the responsibilities and requirements of the Prototyping Leader position at OPmobility.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Business: Research OPmobility's products, technologies, and strategic goals, particularly within the C-Power Business Group.

• Review Operations Concepts: Refresh knowledge on project management, lean principles, quality management, and relevant engineering methodologies.

• Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions: Think about how you would handle common leadership and operational challenges (e.g., resource conflicts, tight deadlines, team performance issues).

• Practice Presentation Skills: Be ready to articulate your experience and portfolio clearly and concisely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential case studies is critical for operations candidates. This role requires not just theoretical knowledge but practical application. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate their ability to manage complex processes, drive efficiency, and deliver tangible results through their work. The "Operations Impact" should be a recurring theme in portfolio presentations.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with CAD tools (e.g., SOLIDWORKS, CATIA, AutoCAD) is likely essential for reviewing and understanding prototype designs.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Jira, Asana, Microsoft Project, or similar for task tracking, scheduling, and workflow management.

• Data Analysis & Visualization: Tools such as Microsoft Excel (advanced features), Tableau, Power BI, or specialized engineering analysis software for interpreting technical data and generating reports.

• ERP/MRP Systems: Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or Material Requirements Planning (MRP) systems for managing resources, inventory, and production planning.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Performance Dashboards: Experience in creating or utilizing dashboards to monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to prototype development, team output, and project status.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate comprehensive technical and operational reports for management and stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal Communication Platforms: Proficiency with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and collaboration.

• PLM Systems: Familiarity with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems for managing product data and workflows throughout development.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, highlighting proficiency in project management tools, data analysis software, and potentially ERP/PLM systems is key. The ability to leverage technology for process efficiency, data-driven decision-making, and clear reporting is paramount. Emphasize how these tools have been used to optimize workflows, track progress, and ensure operational success in previous roles.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality prototypes that meet rigorous standards, driving operational integrity.

• Efficiency & Optimization: A continuous drive to improve processes, reduce waste, and maximize resource utilization within the prototyping function.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where team members work together effectively to achieve common goals.

• Innovation & Continuous Learning: Encouraging new ideas, embracing new technologies, and promoting ongoing skill development within the team.

• Safety & Responsibility: Upholding the highest standards of health, safety, and environmental responsibility in all operations.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Proactive engagement with R&D, design, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure seamless integration of prototyping efforts with broader product development objectives.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent and direct communication within the team and with stakeholders to address challenges and share progress.

• Process-Oriented Approach: Valuing structured methodologies and data-driven insights to guide discussions and decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values and collaborative style are directly relevant to operations professionals. Highlighting how your personal values and work style align with these principles, particularly concerning efficiency, data-driven approaches, and cross-functional teamwork, will be crucial for demonstrating cultural fit and operational synergy.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Speed and Quality: The inherent challenge of rapid prototyping while maintaining high standards for accuracy and reliability. Operations professionals can address this by implementing robust validation processes and efficient quality checks.

• Resource Constraints: Managing limited resources (personnel, equipment, budget) effectively to meet diverse project demands. Strategic planning and prioritization are key here.

• Evolving Technologies: Keeping pace with rapid advancements in materials, manufacturing techniques, and digital tools relevant to prototyping. Continuous learning and adaptation are essential.

• Cross-Departmental Alignment: Ensuring seamless communication and integration between prototyping and other departments (R&D, Manufacturing, Sales) to avoid bottlenecks and misalignments.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in areas like additive manufacturing, advanced materials, or specific automotive technologies.

• Leadership Development Programs: OPmobility likely offers programs to enhance leadership, project management, and strategic thinking skills.

• Industry Exposure: Participation in relevant industry conferences, workshops, and trade shows to stay abreast of the latest trends and network with peers.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within OPmobility or to mentor junior team members, fostering leadership growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations candidates, framing these challenges through an operational lens is key. For instance, "resource constraints" can be framed as an opportunity to apply lean principles and optimize resource allocation. "Evolving technologies" can be linked to the need for agile process adaptation and continuous operational improvement. The growth opportunities should be viewed through the lens of expanding operational influence and leadership scope.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to prioritize multiple competing prototyping projects with limited resources. How did you manage the workload and ensure successful outcomes for each?" (Focus on prioritization, resource allocation, and process management)

• "How would you implement a new process for quality assurance in our prototyping workflow? What metrics would you track to measure its success?" (Focus on process design, implementation, and KPI definition)

• "Walk us through a complex technical problem you encountered in a prototyping project. What was your methodology for diagnosing and resolving it, and what was the ultimate impact?" (Focus on problem-solving methodology like 8D/5M/5 Why, analytical skills, and impact quantification) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of OPmobility, how do you see the Prototyping Leader role contributing to our mission of sustainable and connected mobility?" (Focus on strategic alignment and understanding of the business)

• "Describe your leadership style and how you motivate technical teams to achieve ambitious goals." (Focus on team dynamics, motivation strategies, and operational leadership)

• "How do you ensure collaboration and effective communication between your team and other departments, such as R&D or Manufacturing?" (Focus on cross-functional collaboration and communication protocols) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your presentations: Use a clear narrative: Problem -> Your Role -> Actions Taken (Process/Methodology) -> Results (Quantified Impact).

• Highlight operational efficiencies: For each project, emphasize how you improved processes, reduced costs, or increased speed/quality.

• Demonstrate leadership: Showcase instances where you guided your team, made critical decisions, or resolved conflicts.

• Be ready for deep dives: Anticipate questions about the technical details, the rationale behind your decisions, and alternative approaches you considered.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should emphasize the intersection of technical execution and operational management. Candidates should be ready to articulate not just what they did, but how they did it from a process and efficiency standpoint, and what the measurable impact was. The portfolio presentation is a critical opportunity to showcase these operational capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations-focused Prototyping Leader position:

• Submit Your Application: Complete the online application form via the OPmobility careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight leadership experience, specific prototyping achievements, proficiency in relevant technical and operational tools, and experience with methodologies like 8D, 5M, and 5 Why. Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your leadership, process improvement capabilities, problem-solving skills, and impact on project outcomes. Be ready to articulate these in detail.

• Research OPmobility: Thoroughly research the company's mission, values, product lines (especially within the C-Power Business Group), and recent news to demonstrate genuine interest and strategic alignment.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for behavioral and situational questions, focusing on how you have managed teams, optimized processes, and driven results in technical environments. Practice articulating your portfolio highlights clearly and concisely.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.