
Automation Engineer – Prototyping & Development (m/f/d)
Plasmateria GmbH • Vienna, Austria
Salary: €45,000 / year
**Role & seniority: ** Automation/Mechatronics Engineer (R&D), hands-on prototype-to-production; seniority not explicitly stated (early responsibility mentioned).
**Stack/tools: **
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PLC/automation: Siemens, Beckhoff (or similar)
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Industrial comms: Profinet, EtherCAT (or similar)
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Hardware: control cabinets, wiring, electrical components, sensors & actuators
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Docs/design: electrical schematics, technical drawings
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Top 3 responsibilities:
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Design and develop automation concepts/system components for PVD coating equipment (from scratch).
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Build, wire, and commission prototype automation setups; integrate sensors/actuators/mechanics.
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Program PLCs/controllers, test/debug automation solutions, and support industrialization from prototype to series production (with documentation).
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Must-have skills:
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Hands-on automation and system integration experience
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PLC programming skills (Siemens/Beckhoff or similar)
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Wiring/control cabinet work; ability to read electrical schematics/drawings
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Knowledge of industrial sensors/actuators and industrial communication protocols
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Structured, solution-oriented approach; fluent English
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Nice-to-haves:
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German proficiency
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Direct experience with vacuum/PVD-related systems (implied by context)
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Location & work type:
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Location: Vienna (public transport accessible)
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Work type: Full-time (38.5 h/week), flexible hours; part-time option possible; on-site/hands-o
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Full Description
Do you enjoy designing innovative systems and turning ideas into real hardware?
Join Plasmateria, a fast-growing tech start-up developing sustainable PVD coating solutions as a green alternative to chrome plating. As part of our R&D team, you will work on the design and development of advanced vacuum and coating systems, contributing directly to cutting-edge technology and real-world applications. If you are hands-on, solution-oriented, and excited to work in a dynamic environment, this role is for you.
Your Responsibilities
- · Design and develop automation concepts and system components for PVD systems from scratch
- · Build, wire, and commission prototype automation setups
- · Program and configure PLCs, controllers, and automation components
- · Integrate sensors, actuators, and mechanical systems
- · Work closely with mechanical engineering and PVD process specialists to develop functional systems
- · Test, debug, and continuously improve automation solutions
- · Drive industrialization from prototype to series production
- · Document systems, processes, and test results
Your Profile
- · Technical background in automation engineering, mechatronics, electrical engineering, or a related field (apprenticeship, HTL, or higher education)
- · Hands-on experience in automation and system integration
- · PLC programming skills (e.g. Siemens, Beckhoff, or similar)
- · Experience with wiring, control cabinets, and electrical components
- · Understanding of sensors, actuators, and industrial communication protocols (e.g. Profinet, EtherCAT)
- · Ability to read electrical schematics and technical drawings
- · Structured and solution-oriented working style
- · Fluent in English; German is a plus
About us
- Plasmateria is a Vienna-based start-up developing advanced plasma-based coating technologies for next-generation industrial applications. Our solutions are based on Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) and go beyond conventional approaches by enabling high-performance coatings on internal surfaces—unlocking new possibilities where traditional methods fall short.
- With our proprietary Inner Diameter Coating technology, we target key industries such as e-mobility, aerospace, and microelectronics, while providing a sustainable alternative to hard chrome plating.
- Our mission is to create tailored surface solutions that enhance performance, reduce environmental impact, and enable future technologies—including applications in hydrogen and energy systems.
Learn more: https://www.plasmateria.com/
We offer
- · A dynamic and flexible work environment in a motivated team led by industry experts.
- · Flat hierarchies and short decision-making processes.
- · Good public transport accessibility.
- · The opportunity to take responsibility early and actively shape a growing deep-tech start-up.
- · Diverse development opportunities in a fast-evolving R&D environment.
- · Flexible working hours.
- · Modern work equipment (laptop & smartphone).
- · A workplace in Vienna with a strong focus on innovation and sustainability.
- · Annual gross salary starting from € 45,000 (full-time) based on the Austrian metal industry collective agreement, with willingness to overpay depending on qualifications and experience; full-time (38.5 h/week), part-time option possible.
How to Apply
- If you are excited about contributing to a growing tech start-up in Vienna, have a solid technical understanding, and bring the skills and qualities outlined above, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume (CV) and a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience to hr@plasmateria.com.