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Jobbeschreibung

We are Europe's research laboratory for the life sciences – an intergovernmental organisation performing scientific research in disciplines including molecular biology, physics, chemistry and computer science. We are an international, innovative and interdisciplinary laboratory with more than 1900 employees from many nations, operating across six sites, in Heidelberg (HQ), Barcelona, Hinxton near Cambridge, Hamburg, Grenoble and Rome.

At our site at EMBL Heidelberg we are looking for an experienced and detail-oriented Precision Mechanic to join our team of the Mechanical Workshop, which is equipped to carry out a great variety of tool-making and precision engineering on metal and plastic materials. The Mechanical Workshop closely interacts with the Mechanical design Office, Electronic Workshop and Scientific Instrument Maintenance Team. The successful candidate will manufacture precision components and interact with internal scientists and visitors on a daily basis to gather requirements, enabling efficient and accurate prototype development and implementation. A willingness for continuous professional development is expected and strongly supported.


  • Manufacture precision components and prototypes.
  • Interact with internal scientists and visitors on a daily basis to gather requirements.
  • Assemble, align, and test precision mechanical components and systems.
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on precision machinery.
  • Use various tools and equipment, including micrometers, calipers, and gauges, to ensure parts meet exact specifications.
  • Reading and interpreting technical drawings, blueprints and specifications.
  • Working with engineers and production teams to improve processes and product quality.
  • Documenting work performed and keeping accurate records of inspections and repairs.
  • Following safety protocols and keeping your work area clean and tidy.
  • Staying up to date with advances in precision engineering and related technologies.

  • Technical training in mechanical engineering.
  • Minimum of 3 years experience in a mechanical workshop environment. In exceptional cases talented beginners may also be considered.
  • Experience with standard CAD methods and software such as Heidenhain TNC 320 and TNC 640, Weiler E 30-SL1 and SolidWorks Basic.
  • Very good working skills in high precision engineering, working with a variety of materials for prototype development.
  • Reliability, precision and good communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently on smaller projects and as part of a team on larger projects.
  • Good knowledge of English and German.

You might also have

  • Readiness for further training is desirable.
  • Basic knowledge of 5-axis and 3-axis CNC milling machines and tools.

** Don't meet every single requirement? We are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply nevertheless.


EMBL is curiosity-driven, community-oriented and international. As an inclusive, equal opportunity employer, we believe that diversity enables us to collaborate more effectively and be innovative in our approaches.

EMBL offers attractive conditions and benefits appropriate to an international research organisation with a very collegial and family-friendly working environment. Competitive salary and social security benefits, financial support for relocation, a relaxed culture, professional development, an on-site nursery, canteen and other staff facilities make EMBL a great place to work.

Enjoy lots of benefits

  • Financial incentives: Income tax exemption, monthly family, child and non-resident allowances, annual salary review, a pension scheme, life insurance, long-term care, accident-at-work and unemployment insurances
  • Flexible working arrangements
  • Certified training and continued development of your professional and personal skills
  • Private medical insurance for you and your immediate family
  • Generous time off: 30 days annual leave per year
  • Generous relocation package including installation grant (if applicable)
  • Family benefits: On-site nursery, 10 days of child sick leave, generous parental leave and monthly family and child allowances
  • Benefits for international newcomers: Visa exemption, education grant for private schooling, financial support to travel back to your home country every second year and a monthly non-resident allowance

Please note that appointments on fixed term contracts can be renewed up to 9 years in total, depending on circumstances at the time of the review.

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