Academic jobs in Germany

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.

Software Developer (f/m/d)

• Further develop PLC internal framework by adding new features, modules, and functionalities based on research and user requirements.
• Develop software tools, services and applications which will serve users to work with the PLC framework.
• Consolidate the framework to improve code consistency, modularity, and re‑usability.
• Develop and maintain CI/CD pipelines to automate the build, testing, and deployment.
• Implement new user requirements and project specifications.
• Create and maintain detailed technical documentation.
• Provide technical support to user and support groups.
• Train users on how to effectively use the framework and its tools, ensure knowledge transfer within team and other groups.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to understand their automation needs and translate them into technical requirements.
• Commission, test and support PLC systems in the field (incl. OCD).

• Academic degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Automation, or a related field.
• Work experience in relevant field of at least 5 years.
• Programming languages with advanced level required: C#, .NET, etc.
• Experience in full stack web development (ASP.NET, Blazor, React etc.).
• Highly developed problem‑solving skills, experience in commissioning and user support.
• Strong communication skills to effectively interact with technical and non‑technical staff within EuXFEL or other facilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Advanced level with versioning and bug tracking tools (e.g., Git, Redmine).
• Experience in PLC programming in IEC 61131‑3 is considered an asset.
• Experience using EtherCAT, ADS, OPC‑UA, NC PTP Beckhoff libraries and TwinCAT 3.1 is considered an asset.
• Ability to work in a multi‑lingual and multi‑disciplinary team.

Schenefeld in the Hamburg metropolitan area. General information on working in Germany, the Hamburg area and the European XFEL can be found here.

• 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 well‑being

Our company language is English.

Reference number: E‑403

Duration: This appointment is limited to 2 years.

Please apply online and 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 heterogeneous teams. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference over other equally qualified applicants.

Apply now

Deadline: 20 January 2026