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 (TwinCAT 3) 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 in 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

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.

Reference number: E-394

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

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.

Deadline: 26/08/2025

For additional information, please contact Patrick Geßler ( [email protected]).

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 here.