Mechatronics Engineer (m/f/div)

The Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems (MPI-IS) conducts research to advance intelligent systems that perceive, learn, and interact. Through fundamental research across computational, physical, and social dimensions, the institute shapes artificial intelligence and robotics to advance knowledge and benefit society.

The Stuttgart site of the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems (MPI-IS) is seeking a mechatronics expert to join their vibrant and rapidly expanding research community. With over 400 employees distributed between campuses in Stuttgart and Tübingen, MPI-IS is conducting cutting-edge research in the fields of micro- and nano-robotics, haptic interfaces, human-robot interaction, bio-hybrid systems, medical robotics, computer vision, control, machine learning, and much more. In addition, the institute is a founding member of Cyber Valley, a research network comprising key players in the fields of artificial intelligence and robotics, including major industry partners.

To provide professional, high-quality scientific and engineering expertise to their diverse and expanding research community, the institute has established a set of central scientific facilities in the areas of robotics, materials, computer vision, medical systems, high-performance computing, and software development. Working alongside some of the most talented researchers in the field, the scientists and engineers of these central facilities have the opportunity to make significant contributions to an incredibly wide variety of projects.

Your role

The new position seeks to strengthen the team’s capabilities and expertise in the development of new mechatronic and robotics systems, with a particular focus on the coupling of mechanical and embedded intelligent systems. 

Your profile

Applicants should have:

• a Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, mechatronics, computer science, or a related field

• significant hands-on experience with mechatronic, embedded, and/or robotic systems (see below for more details)
• very strong written and oral English communication skills 
• the ability to work independently on a variety of projects 

Ideal candidates will have experience with some of the following:

• Proven track record of designing and developing mechatronic, embedded, and/or robotic systems 
• Experimental system design & realization - work with scientists to define project requirements; select appropriate components; integrate various systems; calibrate, test and, improve final deliverables
• Mechatronic/embedded system design and programming – develop embedded systems; integrate various subcomponents, including microcontrollers, sensors, actuators, and communications; implement and test real-time control systems
• Electrical circuit design & fabrication - component selection; fine-pitch SMD; multi-layer design; flexible assemblies; rapid prototyping
• Measurement and instrumentation – modern sensor systems; calibration; data collection and analysis in various domains (physical, biological, etc.)

The offer

The position will be located in the Stuttgart site of the Max Planck Institute of Intelligent Systems as part of the Robotics Central Scientific Facility. Here you will enjoy an open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. Further benefits include an annual special payment, the possibility of being awarded a performance-related bonus once a year, and a secure workplace. There is also a child-care facility next to the institute with preferential access for Max Planck employees.

Salary and contract will be based on qualifications and previous professional experience according to the Public Service Wage Agreement (TVöD Bund) guidelines. All social benefits of public service apply. You will receive a financial contribution to the job ticket (ÖPNV) and the possibility of mobile working.

Your application

To apply, please include a cover letter, your CV, a link to a project portfolio (if applicable) and the contact details for at least two references in your application. Please upload it as one PDF file to their application portal.

Questions related to this position should be addressed to Dr. Jonathan Fiene, head of the Robotics Central Scientific Facility, at fiene@is.mpg.de.

The position will be open until December 31, 2025.

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in its workforce in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.