Senior Automation Software Engineer (f/m/d)

Intro

For our location in Freiburg im Breisgau, we are looking for a Senior Automation Software Engineer (f/m/d) to strengthen our team. At NexWafe, we are redefining how silicon wafers are manufactured. Our innovative epitaxial wafer technology reduces process steps, energy consumption, and CO₂ emissions, setting a new benchmark for sustainable photovoltaic production. As a Senior Automation Software Engineer (f/m/d), you will support in advancing our Siemens-based automation platform and next-generation process control software. You will work at the intersection of industrial automation, software engineering, process control, and digitalization, developing scalable solutions that enable faster process development and improved manufacturing performance. Join our international team and help drive the transition toward a more sustainable energy future.

Your Mission

• Develop and maintain Siemens PLC applications, reusable function blocks, and standardized control architectures for NexWafe's production equipment.
• Design and implement workflow-driven process automation, recipe management, and orchestration systems using Node-RED or similar platforms.
• Integrate instrumentation, machine equipment, industrial networks, and SCADA/MES systems into a reliable and scalable automation environment.
• Develop industrial software applications, APIs, HMIs, dashboards, and analytics tools.
• Collaborate closely with process engineers and cross-functional stakeholders to translate process requirements into robust and user-oriented automation solutions.
• Support equipment commissioning, troubleshooting, and optimization activities to ensure stable, efficient, and reliable production processes.

Your profile

• Master's degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechatronics, Software Engineering, or a comparable field.
• At least 5 years of PLC programming experience, including TIA Portal and Structured Text.
• Experience with industrial automation, machine control systems, and commissioning.
• Proficiency in at least one modern language such as C#, Python, JavaScript, or C++.
• Practical experience with industrial communication technologies such as OPC UA, Profinet, Modbus TCP, MQTT, or REST APIs.
• A structured and solution-oriented working style combined with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills in interdisciplinary and international teams.
• Fluent English language skills, both written and spoken. German language skills are a plus.
• Experience with Node-RED, workflow engines, or process orchestration platforms.
• Experience with Grafana or other visualization software tools, industrial data systems, and advanced analytics.
• Experience with web technologies and modern software frameworks such as React or Angular.
• Experience with Git and modern software development practices.
• Willingness to occasionally travel within Germany and internationally for project and commissioning activities.

Why us?

• A diverse team: Short decision-making processes, flat hierarchies and collaboration with experts from different areas await you.
• A diverse and exciting job: A company that contributes to the commercialisation of environmentally friendly solar energy with a low carbon footprint.
• Stability with a certain degree of flexibility: A permanent position with flexible working hours.
• Attractive remuneration programme: An attractive salary, a company pension scheme and profit-sharing for employees.
• Healthy balance: Take your physical and mental health to the next level with an annual health budget and a HanseFit membership!
• Expand your language skills: Optimise your career prospects with the language courses offered.

About Us

At NexWafe, we're striving to set a new standard for the future of photovoltaic wafer production. The need for efficient, affordable and cleanly produced solar technology has never been greater - we're rising to meet that challenge.