Development Engineer (f/m/d) for Satellite Instrumentation (Project ATHENA WFI)

The Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics (MPE) in Garching is a global leader in the field of ground-bound and space-based experimental astronomy with its working areas of infrared and submillimeter astronomy, high energy astronomy, optical astronomy and astrochemistry. It develops, builds and tests scientific instruments intended for operation on large telescopes (VLT, LBT, ELT) and for installation in satellites (XMM-Newton, Herschel, eROSITA, NewAthena). For the development of the Wide Field Imager (WFI) instrument for the space X-ray observatory ATHENA of the ESA we are looking for Development Engineer (w/m/d) für Satellite-Instrumentierung (Project ATHENA WFI) Reference number 12/2025 As part of the ESA Mission ATHENA, the MPE is responsible for the development of the Wide Field Imager (WFI) camera, one of two instruments on the X-ray satellite. The WFI camera allows the spatial and time-resolved spectroscopy of X-ray photons in the energy range from 200 eV to 15 keV over a large field of view. The camera is developed and tested by the WFI consortium. In the written position you work with an interdisciplinary and international team of engineers and physicists.

The independent cooperation in the mechanical design, development, professional design and design of challenging, scientific instruments for astronomy in close cooperation with the project teams, the European partner institutes and the ESA and ESO. The detailed design and design of the instruments as well as the development of the necessary integration and test equipment. The creation of the detailed 3D‐CAD design, the production documents and drawings as well as the associated project documentation. The definition and monitoring of mechanical interfaces. The planning, preparation and maintenance of the production of the components in the house as well as the suppliers of companies and partner institutes. The organization or participation in the integration and testing of the instrument modules transferred to you and their commissioning in the laboratory together with the project teams.

Graduate (Master, Bachelor) Mechanical Engineering, Precision Engineering or Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent qualification. At least 2 years of professional experience through full-time employment, extracurricular project teams or laboratory work. Experiences in 3D-CAD/CAE development. Construction of complex, particularly difficult assemblies and their mechanical design with Siemens NX are desirable. Knowledge of Siemens NX/TeamCenter desired. Experience with space projects and knowledge of ESA design and quality assurance requirements (ECSS standards) are of advantage. Embossed communication skills, presentation of results, excellent conceptual and analytical skills, active solving of problems, team spirit. Current knowledge of English and German in word and writing.

A versatile, demanding and independent activity in a dynamic and international research environment. Interdisciplinary work in a collegial team of experienced engineers and physicists. Need-oriented training opportunities. Compensation according to your qualification and professional experience according to the public service collective agreement (TVöD). Occupational pension (VBL). Canteen nearby. Metro station U6 right in front of the institute, discounted ÖPNV job tickets. Free parking on the institute grounds. Family service at the research campus Garching. Private accident insurance, financed by the employer. Reduced rates for certain insurance. The job is limited to two years and further employment is provided. JOBV1_EN