KERING EYEWEAR Junior R&D & Smart Devices Engineer

Your Opportunity

We are looking for a curious, proactive and technically minded Junior R&D & Smart Devices Engineer to support the development of next-generation Smart Glasses and other Smart Devices and the scouting, assessment and implementation of innovative technologies across manufacturing and operational processes.

The role offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of luxury eyewear, consumer electronics, artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing technologies.

How you will contribute

Smart Devices Development

• Support the management and execution of Smart Devices development projects in collaboration with internal teams, technology partners and external suppliers.
• Monitor project activities, milestones, risks and action plans.
• Collect, organize and analyze technical documentation, specifications and benchmarking information.
• Support cross-functional coordination among Product Development, Industrialization, Quality, Compliance and Supply Chain teams.
• Prepare project reviews, status reports and executive presentations.

Innovation Scouting & Technology Assessment

• Continuously monitor technology trends and emerging innovations in:
  • Smart Glasses and Smart Devices
  • Consumer electronics
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Advanced manufacturing technologies
  • Automation and robotics
  • Innovative materials and sustainable solutions
• Perform market and technology benchmarking activities.
• Analyze and compare alternative technical solutions, suppliers and technology providers.
• Build business cases and recommendation reports supporting decision making.

Digital Transformation & AI

• Support identification and evaluation of AI-based tools capable of improving product development, industrialization and manufacturing processes, consistent with current R&D objectives focused on AI-enabled process improvements.
• Participate in pilot projects related to automation, digitalization and process optimization.
• Explore and test AI productivity tools for data analysis, document generation, reporting and presentation development.
• Support the collection and analysis of project data and performance metrics.

Materials & Technology Development

• Support scouting and evaluation of innovative materials and manufacturing technologies for eyewear applications.
• Coordinate testing activities with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Contribute to technical assessments regarding feasibility, quality, performance, sustainability and industrial scalability.
• Prepare technical summaries and recommendation reports.

Who you are

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering (e.g., Management, Industrial, Mechanical, Electronics, Mechatronics or similar).
• At least 1–2 years of experience in R&D, Process Improvement or Project Management, preferably within Supply Chain or industrial environments.
• Basic understanding of product development, engineering and industrialization processes.
• Genuine interest in consumer electronics, smart devices and wearable technologies.
• Familiarity with project management principles and methodologies.
• Good knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Fluent in English.
• AI literacy, with the ability to responsibly leverage AI tools to improve productivity, support problem-solving and enhance decision-making, while applying critical thinking and sound judgment.
• Knowledge of eyewear products and related manufacturing processes is a plus.
• Exposure to automation, robotics or Industry 4.0 technologies is a plus.
• Familiarity with AI applications in manufacturing, quality control or engineering is a plus.
• Basic knowledge of electronics, sensors and embedded systems is a plus.
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Curiosity, creativity and a genuine passion for innovation and emerging technologies.
• Proactive and entrepreneurial mindset, with a hands-on approach.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Team-oriented attitude and ability to work in international, cross-functional environments.

What we offer

• Applicable CCNL: contratto collettivo per gli addetti alle aziende che producono occhiali e articoli inerenti l’occhialeria.
• Category: impiegato.
• Indicative starting compensation: € 35.000.      
• Benefits: beyond what is required by the National Collective Bargaining Agreement (CCNL) and applicable laws, additional benefits and initiatives are provided in compliance with current company policies. 

Why work with us?     

This is a fabulous opportunity to join the Kering Eyewear adventure and to actively contribute to the development of the business by becoming part of a thriving Company in a global Luxury Group that offers endless possibilities to learn and grow. Talent development is a managerial principle at Kering and we are committed to fostering internal mobility. Our common vision promotes leadership skills and helps every employee to reach their full potential in a stimulating and fulfilling workplace environment.

Kering is committed to building a diverse workforce. We believe diversity in all its forms – gender, age, nationality, culture, religious beliefs and sexual orientation – enriches the workplace. It opens up opportunities for people to express their talent, both individually and collectively and it helps foster our ability to adapt to a changing world. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their background.