Enlightening Science

European XFEL is an international non-profit company located in the Hamburg area in Germany. It operates a 3.4 km-long X-ray laser, which produces X-rays of unique quality for studies in physics, chemistry, the life sciences, materials research and other disciplines. The diverse scientific facilities at European XFEL enable scientists from across the globe to carry out a wide range of experimental techniques.

For our Electronic and Electrical Engineering group we are looking for a

PLC Development and Support Engineer (f/m/d)

The Position

Design of Beckhoff PLC programs (TwinCAT3) based on project specifications and documentation
Support the development of standardized code blocks within existing PLC framework
Test and commissioning of the PLC systems in-the-field
Investigate and solve technical issues in-the-field
Maintain, support and further develop installed systems
Analysis of technical requirements and specifications for developing automation solutions
Close communication with other groups
Document the work accomplished

Requirements

Academic degree in the field of electrical or electronics engineering / industrial automation or comparable education
Experience in PLC programming in Structured Text (IEC61131-3) Language
Experience with electric drives and motion systems (e.g. stepper, linear, nano motion, etc.)
Experience with NC PTP Beckhoff libraries and TwinCAT 3.1 is considered an asset
Knowledge of different industrial communication protocols such as EtherCAT, Modbus, serial interfaces, etc.
Experience with versioning, bug tracking and deploying tools (e.g. GIT, Redmine)
Experience with SCADA/HMI systems for integration with PLCs
Experience with Safety systems integrated into PLCs is considered an asset
Knowledge of different programming languages such as Python or C#, interest for learning new ones
Highly developed problem solving skills
Good communication skills and the ability to work in a multi-lingual, multi-disciplinary team, with English as the working language

For additional information, please contact Patrick Geßler (patrick.gessler@xfel.eu).

Working place will be Schenefeld, in the Hamburg metropolitan area. General information on working in Germany, the Hamburg area and the European XFEL can be found on our Career Page.

Reference Number

E-394

Duration

This appointment is initially limited to 3 years, and might be extended subject to later decision.

Our offer

Become part of a vibrant international and multi-cultural team of scientists, engineers, technical and administrative staff. Be involved in cutting edge scientific and technical progress and participate in our international networks. Experience our atmosphere of tolerance and respect.

Salary and benefits are similar to those of public service organizations in Germany, this includes for example:

family friendly working environment (e.g. additional childcare days)
flexible working times and option for work from home depending on tasks
30 days of vacation, 24th and 31st of December are free as a courtesy of the employer
extensive relocation benefits
generous company pension scheme (6,45% of monthly salary)
monthly social events and subsidized company restaurant
partially financed job-tickets for public transportation
extensive training opportunities incl. subsidized English and German language classes
Easy and free access to a mental health platform to support your wellbeing

Our company language is English.

Application

Please provide your CV and a motivation letter in English as well as any reference letters.

The European XFEL GmbH is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer and we promote and support diverse and heterogenous teams. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference over other equally qualified applicants.

Application Deadline: 26/08/2025

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