ENGINEER / RESEARCHER – AUTOMATION in CONSTRUCTION (m/f/d)

Your Opportunity:

Shape the future of construction sites together with Fraunhofer Italia. As an engineer or researcher with a focus on automation in construction, you will work on innovative projects where automated processes, sensing, mechatronics and – as a second step – complementary robotic systems are combined with digital twins and data-driven methods. You will design and test new solutions at the interface between hardware and software, from partially automated workflows to highly integrated, advanced automation concepts for real construction environments.

You will actively contribute to transforming construction processes on site – in the lab and in the field – and help measurably improve productivity, quality, occupational safety and sustainability in the construction sector.

Bring your expertise in mechanical engineering, mechatronics, automation engineering, civil engineering or related disciplines and develop practical, future-oriented solutions together with an interdisciplinary team.

Your Role:

• Develop, integrate and test automation solutions for construction processes (e.g. partially and fully automated construction equipment, assistance systems, automated manufacturing and assembly processes) and, in a second step, extend them with complementary robotic systems
• Design and implement mechatronic prototypes, including actuators, sensors, control systems and overall control architectures
• Build and operate experimental platforms and testbeds (lab and field trials) to validate new automation concepts in realistic construction settings
• Develop control and motion strategies (e.g. trajectory planning, motion control, safety concepts) and integrate them into digital workflows (e.g. BIM-based control, digital twins)
• Support the automation of existing construction processes using AI-, sensor- and model-based approaches (e.g. pose detection, quality assurance, material tracking)
• Conduct applied research, including the design, execution and evaluation of experiments, and develop prototypes and demonstrators
• Contribute to national and international research and innovation projects (e.g. EU or regional projects), including work package planning, coordination and presentation of results
• Collaborate in interdisciplinary teams combining civil engineering, mechanical engineering, automation, software development and AI, together with partners from academia, industry and the public sector

Your Profile:

• Completed master's degree in mechanical engineering, mechatronics, automation engineering, civil engineering or a related engineering discipline
• Solid knowledge in at least one of the following areas:
• • Automation engineering and control systems (e.g. PLCs, industrial fieldbuses)
• • Mechatronic systems and actuators/sensors
• • Application of digital methods for planning, controlling or monitoring construction processes
• Strong interest in applying automation solutions to construction, e.g. for on-site operations, prefabrication, assembly or inspection; initial experience with complementary robotic systems is an advantage
• Practical experience in developing and implementing hardware prototypes (e.g. building test rigs, integrating sensors/actuators, commissioning systems) is a clear plus
• Programming skills (e.g. Python, C/C++, PLC) are highly desirable
• Experience with simulation and 3D environments such as NVIDIA Omniverse and with parametric modelling tools such as Rhino with Grasshopper is an asset
• Basic understanding of or interest in digital construction workflows (BIM, digital twins, simulation) is welcome
• Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research at the intersection of construction, automation, mechatronics and software development
• Initial experience in research or development projects, ideally in publicly funded contexts
• Excellent communication skills in English; knowledge of German or Italian is a plus

What We Offer:

• Participation in cutting-edge research and innovation projects on automation in construction – from conceptual studies to real-world demonstrators, with targeted integration of complementary robotic systems
• Access to state-of-the-art technology, automation, measurement and laboratory infrastructure, and an international, interdisciplinary and supportive working environment
• Individual development opportunities through training, mentoring and further education in automation, digital methods, project management and – if desired – robotics
• Flexible working time models and home-office options for a healthy work–life balance
• Attractive remuneration package and an initial three-year contract with the prospect of permanent employment

Join Us:

Bring your expertise in automation and your passion for innovation in the construction sector to our team We look forward to receiving your application if you want to help shape the construction site of tomorrow – smarter, safer and more efficient.

Become part of a team that drives automation and digital intelligence for sustainable and smart building projects.