openUC2 GmbH · Jena · Full-time

openUC2 is an optics startup based in Jena. With a 14-person team spanning hardware, software, sales and operations, we make high-quality optical systems modular, accessible and affordable. Our customers come mainly from research and industry, but also from education.

For FRAME – our modular, open microscopy platform for research and industry – we’re looking for someone to take ownership of the product and join our team as Product Owner.

What you’ll do

• Develop and deliver the product roadmap in close coordination with the management team
• Shape and steer the software roadmap together with our developers
• Translate customer needs into product requirements, including customer contact at trade fairs and meetings alongside Sales
• Work closely across disciplines: hardware (design, manufacturing), software and commercial (sales, customer success)
• Own acceptance testing and final product sign-off
• Track project progress and keep it transparent for everyone

What you bring

• A completed degree (university or university of applied sciences) in natural sciences or engineering, or comparable qualification
• Several years of professional experience in the optics industry or photonics research; a solid understanding of optical systems is a requirement for this role
• Several years of experience in product development and/or project management
• Good German and excellent English, both spoken and written
• A customer-focused, goal-oriented, systematic and independent way of working
• Strong team and communication skills
• Experience as a Product Owner or with agile methods (Scrum) is a plus, but not a requirement

What we offer

• A product with a mission: as an open-source company, we make microscopy accessible worldwide, from the research lab to the classroom
• The chance to actively shape a profitably growing startup and take it into its next growth phase
• Plenty of room to define your own role and take on leadership responsibility
• A location at the heart of one of Europe’s strongest photonics ecosystems: our office is on the Beutenberg Campus in Jena, with direct access to users in research and industry
• Flexible, hybrid working with remote days
• An international team working in both German and English
• Direct collaboration with the founders and real influence on the product and the company’s culture

How to apply

Send your application to Anja by 31 August 2026. Please include your CV and a short note (max. 5 sentences) on what draws you to openUC2 in particular.

We review applications as they come in and will get back to you promptly with initial feedback. Promising candidates are invited to an interview at our office.

Your contact:
Anja Noster, Founder Associate
anja.noster@openuc2.com