Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences | Application deadline: 17.09.2025
At the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences, Institute of Process Engineering, Process Automation and Metrology (IPM), the Department of Metrology/Process Automation is working on the research project "MetalPCM - Development of latent heat storage systems based on metallic PCM for a sustainable process heat supply" at the earliest possible date for a position (1.0 FTE) as
Research assistant (m/f/d) in the field of
Automation technology for thermal energy systems
- Reference: 44-2025 MetallPCM -
to be filled for a limited period until 30.06.2027.
Your opportunity in the MetallPCM project
In the MetallPCM research project, the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences is developing a demonstrator for a metal-based high-temperature latent heat storage system together with the Fraunhofer IFAM. The aim is to make metallic PCMs (phase change materials) technically and economically viable for storing industrial process heat. The IPM takes on central tasks in system integration, control and validation of the storage system in the pilot plant.
By building up technological expertise in the field of heat storage and automation, the project is making a concrete contribution to structural change in Upper Lusatia.
Your tasks at a glance
Planning, construction and integration of the storage demonstrator into the infrastructure of the Zittau power plant laboratory, including selection and implementation of suitable measurement, control and automation technology,
Programming and calibrating the control and measurement systems (e.g. PLC, HMI), carrying out commissioning and setting up data acquisition,
Monitoring of measurement campaigns, evaluation of relevant thermodynamic data and validation by comparison with simulations,
Close cooperation with project partners from the fields of simulation and energy technology as well as support for external manufacturing partners,
Error analysis and optimization of operation as well as documentation of results for project reports and scientific publications.
What you already have
The following are required
Completed university degree (e.g. automation technology, mechatronics, energy technology or comparable).
Practical experience in the automation and control of processes, ideally with PLC programming (e.g. WAGO, IEC 61131-3) and data acquisition systems,
Basic knowledge of programming languages (e.g. Python) for data analysis or expansion of automation systems,
Understanding of energy technology processes and their metrological recording,
Willingness to collaborate across disciplines and to support partners from industry and research.
Good written and spoken English,
Confident handling of word processing, spreadsheet and presentation programs.
Also desirable are
Knowledge and experience in the implementation of modern control strategies,
preferably many years (3 years) of relevant professional experience,
Experience in the use of cloud services for process control or monitoring,
Experience in the use of edge computing technologies for decentralized data processing in automation systems,
Interest in scientific documentation and publications.
We also value the following
A high level of commitment to practical, application-oriented research,
willingness to collaborate across disciplines and develop technical expertise,
reliable participation in the implementation of a publicly funded third-party project,
a committed and team-oriented way of working,
goal-oriented and independent implementation of work tasks,
Willingness and interest in further professional and personal development.
Good reasons for joining us
A varied job in a future-oriented research project with high practical relevance,
a working environment characterized by openness, respect and mutual appreciation,
an innovative workplace with modern equipment
the opportunity to actively contribute to the sustainable development of the Upper Lusatia region,
flexible and family-friendly working time models in accordance with the applicable service agreements,
a wide range of opportunities for professional and personal development,
30 vacation days per year and time off on December 24 and 31,
additional benefits in accordance with TV-L, such as a company pension scheme, annual special payment and capital-forming benefits,
offers within the framework of company health management and the opportunity to use a job ticket.
The remuneration for tariff employees is up to EG 12 TV-L if the professional requirements are met. The 1st place of work is Zittau. A probationary period will be agreed.
Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences strives for a balanced staff structure and therefore welcomes applications from people of all genders. Persons with severe disabilities will be given preferential consideration if they have the same professional qualifications. Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences has set itself the goal of increasing the proportion of women in teaching and research and therefore expressly encourages women to apply.
If we have aroused your interest, we look forward to receiving your detailed application (including cover letter, CV, degree and work references) by 17.09.2025 (incoming mail) by email to:
stellenangebote@hszg.de
(documents in pdf format only)
For the sake of the environment, we would like to ask you to refrain from sending postal applications[1] if possible (it is not possible to return application documents). We ask for your understanding that any costs incurred during the selection process cannot be reimbursed.
If you have any questions of a technical nature, please contact the project manager, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Alexander Kratzsch; A.Kratzsch@hszg.de; Tel.: 03583/612-4282). Further information can be found at www.hszg.de.
[1] Postal address: Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences, Division of Human Resources and Legal Affairs, Theodor-Körner-Allee 16, 02763 Zittau
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