Automation Engineer

We are looking for an Automation Engineer to design the control software and automation architecture of our production line. As software and automation designer, you will develop PLC and HMI logic, define the interfaces between robots, transport systems, quality stations and the MES/ERP, and make the line run safely, traceably and at pace.

You will turn a process concept into a line that runs unattended for most of the shift. Your code will decide whether we reach our throughput targets, and your data will tell us why we don't.

About us

We're a Germany-based rocketry startup currently in stealth mode, scaling up rapidly to meet the demand for high-performance, reliable, and scalable solid propulsion technologies for space and defense applications. We are building our first production facility, and are applying our knowledge toward serial production of solid rocket motors.

We are working hard to build something truly spectacular.

To thrive here you will need to be comfortable working at pace, with the autonomy to make decisions and execute on them quickly. If you're excited by hard technical challenges and want a role where you will make a real difference each day to the future of the company, we may be the place for you.

At our company, job titles and career progression are earned, not determined by years of experience alone. They reflect the responsibility you take on and the dedication you bring to each project. If you're ready to rise to the challenge, we'd love to hear from you.

Key responsibilities

• Design the automation architecture of the pilot line: PLC and safety controllers, networks, HMI/SCADA and the data model across all stations.

• Develop PLC control software (IEC 61131-3) for dosing, mixing, casting, curing, transport and buffer stations, including recipe and batch handling.

• Define and implement the interfaces between PLCs, robot controllers, MES and ERP, including order handling and traceability (serial and batch IDs).

• Implement safety-related control functions together with the safety engineering team (e.g., PROFIsafe, ISO 13849), and reflect explosion-protection requirements in the control concept.

• Build the operational data layer: process data acquisition, alarm management, OEE and KPI reporting.

• Commission and debug the line on site, support FAT and SAT, and contribute to process validation.

• Maintain coding standards, version control, test procedures and documentation for all automation software.

What we are looking for

• Significant professional experience in industrial automation (PLC programming and control architecture) in manufacturing or process plants.

• Strong, demonstrable experience with a major PLC platform (ideally Beckhoff).

• Solid knowledge of IEC 61131-3 and structured software development, including version control, testing and documentation.

• Experience integrating PLCs with higher-level systems (MES, ERP, databases) via OPC UA or comparable interfaces.

• Understanding of machine safety and functional safety principles.

• The ability to debug live systems on the shop floor under time pressure.

• A degree in electrical engineering, automation, computer science, mechatronics or a related discipline; equivalent practical experience may also be relevant.

Desirable experience

• Python or a similar language for data analysis, test automation and tooling.

• Robot integration (KUKA, ABB, Fanuc, or Beckhoff motion) and PLC-to-robot communication.

• Recipe management and batch process control (ISA-88).

• SCADA/HMI design (e.g., WinCC, Ignition, TwinCAT HMI).

• Traceability systems, barcode/RFID or serial-number management.

• Knowledge of explosion-protection requirements for electrical equipment (ATEX).

• Commissioning experience in a startup or greenfield plant.

Benefits and important information:

We offer top-decile compensation packages, bonuses and meaningful equity, to attract exceptional aerospace talent.

Every employee is awarded stock options in the company, you will directly benefit from your own hard work and success.

Comprehensive relocation support including flights, shipping and visas.

Lunch, dinner and drinks provided everyday

Free access to shared company housing

Please note, we are a fast paced, hyper-scaling startup. You will need to be comfortable working extended hours with high levels of autonomy, ownership, and flexibility, with contracts structured around a 48-hour working week.

We are committed to building an equitable and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, has equal access to opportunity, and can thrive. We welcome different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences—and believe our differences make us stronger.

Please submit applications in English