Development Engineer - Laboratory Automation & Robotics

The Position

Join a dynamic team working at the intersection of technology and innovation, shaping the future of laboratory automation. In an inspiring and highly collaborative environment, you will develop cutting-edge solutions that bridge science and engineering while setting new industry standards.

Bring your passion for technical excellence and help us build the next generation of automation platforms that accelerate scientific discovery and innovation.

Tasks & responsibilities

• In your new role, you will be responsible for the design, integration, and continuous enhancement of solutions for the automation and orchestration of laboratory instruments, robotic systems, and supporting peripheral equipment. You will ensure alignment with and compliance to global automation standards.
• You will automate laboratory workflows end-to-end — from instrument control and workflow orchestration to the integration of data into higher-level IT and laboratory information systems (e.g., LIMS, ELN, MES, Data Lakes). In addition, you will continuously improve the related processes, interfaces, and automation building blocks.
• You will develop concepts for modular, standards-based automation and integration architectures (e.g., based on MTP, OPC UA, REST, or Message Broker technologies) and coordinate their implementation in close collaboration with laboratory stakeholders. Based on these concepts, you will further develop existing standards for automation and software interfaces or establish new technical standards where required.
• Furthermore, you will collaborate closely with internal and external partners, including instrument vendors, IT organizations, and system integration partners, to ensure seamless implementation and operation of automation solutions.
• You will also be responsible for ensuring the reliable operation and lifecycle management of automation and software components, including monitoring, troubleshooting, update strategies, and continuous optimization.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Automation Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline, combined with several years of relevant professional experience; alternatively, a Bachelor's degree with extensive relevant industry experience
• Strong expertise in software development and systems integration, ideally within an industrial automation or laboratory automation environment
• Hands-on experience with Linux operating systems, containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes), and CI/CD methodologies
• Excellent knowledge of communication protocols such as REST, OPC UA, MQTT, and TCP/IP, as well as a solid understanding of hardware interfaces including Ethernet, RS-232, and Digital I/O
• Experience with modular automation standards (e.g., MTP, SiLA2) and/or orchestration platforms is considered a strong advantage
• Quality-focused mindset combined with strong business acumen
• Demonstrated ability to quickly learn and adapt to emerging technologies
• Fluent English and very good German language skills

As part of our commitment to transparency and fairness, salary information will be shared during the recruitment process. We also offer a comprehensive benefits and wellbeing package.

Applications from persons with severe disabilities are warmly welcomed. In cases of equal qualifications, such applicants will be given preferential consideration in the selection process.

Recruitment process:

Step 1: Online application - The job posting is presumably online until August 23, 2026. We reserve the right to take the posting offline beforehand. Applications up to August 13, 2026, are guaranteed to be considered. Step 2: Virtual meeting in the period from end of August till beginning of September. Step 3: On-site interviews end of September till beginning of October.

Please include the following documents when applying for this position: Cover Letter

Ready to contact us?

If you have any questions about the job posting or process - please contact our HR Direct Team, Tel: +49 (0) 6132 77-3330 or via mail: hr.de@boehringer-ingelheim.com

Our Company

Boehringer Ingelheim is a biopharmaceutical company active in both human and animal health. As one of the industry's top investors in research and development, the company focuses on developing innovative therapies that can improve and extend lives in areas of high unmet medical need. Independent since its foundation in 1885, Boehringer takes a long-term perspective, embedding sustainability along the entire value chain. Our approximately 54,300 employees serve over 130 markets to build a healthier and more sustainable tomorrow.