Methods Engineer
Van Cleef & Arpels in Lyon seeks a Methods Engineer (CDD) to industrialise and optimise haute-joaillerie production processes.
Overview
Van Cleef & Arpels is a distinguished haute-joaillerie maison known for exceptional craftsmanship, intricate gem-setting and artisanal ateliers. The brand operates ateliers that combine traditional métiers with technical innovation and cultivates multidisciplinary teams focused on creative excellence and technical precision.
Role & Responsibilities
- Define, document and optimise manufacturing processes and work instructions for jewellery production and ancillary operations.
- Lead industrialisation of new models and collections: prototype-to-production transfer, tooling specification and validation.
- Conduct time-and-motion studies, method studies and capacity analyses to improve productivity and standardise processes.
- Collaborate with design, production, maintenance and quality teams to resolve technical issues and ensure manufacturability.
- Specify tooling, fixtures and shopfloor layouts; oversee trials and pilot runs to validate process parameters.
- Implement continuous improvement initiatives (lean principles, waste reduction, process reliability) and track KPIs.
- Train and coach operators on new methods, work instructions and correct use of tooling and equipment.
Qualifications
- Degree in mechanical, industrial or manufacturing engineering (or equivalent technical diploma).
- Practical knowledge of jewellery or precision metalwork manufacturing strongly preferred.
- Demonstrable experience in industrialisation, process engineering or methods engineering roles.
- Strong ability to read technical drawings and translate design intent into production methods.
- Excellent communication skills and capability to work with cross-functional stakeholders on the shopfloor.
Skills
Experience
Several years (typically 3–5+) of hands-on experience in manufacturing methods, industrialisation or process engineering; experience in jewellery, watchmaking, micro-manufacturing or precision metalwork is highly advantageous.
Education
Bachelor's degree or equivalent in mechanical, industrial, manufacturing engineering or a related technical discipline.
Culture
The maison emphasises handcrafted excellence and meticulous attention to detail, blending traditional métiers with technical rigour. Teams operate in a collaborative, atelier-style environment where craftsmanship, quality and continuous improvement are central to daily work.