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Automation Technician (Automatiker) HF/FH
Start Date
01.12.2026 or by arrangement
Employment Relationship
fixed-term
Institution / Workplace
Space Research and Planetary Sciences
About us
The Space Research and Planetology Division at the University of Bern researches the formation and evolution of our solar system. For this purpose, among other things, highly specialized instruments are developed and built for spacecraft, which subsequently carry out measurements in situ, e.g. in the vicinity of Jupiter. Our team is internationally recognized for its achievements and cooperates in numerous space missions, with, for example, the European Space Agency (ESA) and the American space agency, NASA. On top of space-related activities, our Division is also involved in flagship projects for ground-based astronomy, such as for the European 39-m Extremely Large Telescope (ELT). In this context, we were recently awarded funding to develop an adaptive optics (AO) system for the 80-cm telescope of the Zimmerwald Observatory, in collaboration with the Astronomical Institute of the University of Bern (AIUB) and EPFL. To help meet these challenges, we are now seeking an experienced Automation Technician (Automatiker) HF/FH.
The position is available starting soon, or upon negotiation, for an initial period of one year with the option of extension. Our salary range is determined in accordance with the personnel regulations of the Canton of Bern.
Tasks
Your focus will be on the concept of hardware and software development of PLC Systems, in particular in the context of an adaptive optics real-time system for a ground-based telescope.
The position comprises following tasks:
- Electrical concept and system definition, including the design of electrical schematics
- System and subsystem preparation, assembly, and cabling
- System and Sub-system programming on PLC System (Beckhoff)
- Interface programming for testing and script development (Python)
- System and Sub-system, hardware integration, testing, verification and validation
- Creating and maintaining the required documentation
Requirements
- Automation Technician (Automatiker) HF/FH or equivalent engineering B.Sc.
- Experience in programming Beckhoff PLCs and developing test scripts using Python.
- Experience in C/C++ software development would be an advantage.
- Good spoken and written knowledge of English is required. German would be an advantage.
Your Benefits
International reputation
Inspiring work environment
Collaborative environment and ambitious team
Central location in the heart of Bern
Working at the University of Bern
The University of Bern not only offers exciting tasks but also an environment that actively promotes development, diversity, and equal opportunities. Discover what makes us stand out as an employer and how you can grow with us.
Application and Contact
Please upload your application via the red button "apply" IN ONE PDF DOCUMENT including the following documents:
- CV (in months/years)
- Cover letter (maximum 1 page)
- Relevant diplomas / certificates
- Relevant supporting documents
Application deadline: 30.09.2026
Incomplete applications will neither be confirmed nor considered.
Questions about the position?
Sébastien Hayoz
sebastien.hayoz@unibe.ch
Questions about the application?
Tina Rothenbühler
tina.rothenbuehler@unibe.ch