The Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry (MPI-BGC) in Jena is dedicated to interdisciplinary fundamental research in the field of Earth system sciences with a focus on climate and ecosystems. The internationally renowned institute, which currently employs around 280 people, celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2022. Jena is known for high-tech industry, internationally renowned research institutions and a modern university, but it also has a beautiful natural setting in the green Saale valley with steep limestone slopes. The city of Jena has an active student scene and a diverse cultural life. At the earliest opportunity, we are looking for an In-house Technician (Mechanics) (m/f/d) in a full-time, fixed-term contract for 2 years, with the possibility of a permanent contract thereafter.

Background and position description

The MPI for Biogeochemistry has its main premises on Beutenberg Campus and several additional, but smaller premises close to the city centre of Jena. We are looking for a successor to a long-serving colleague who is retiring. You will join a well-established team consisting of three other colleagues and the Technical Operations Manager. Maintenance, servicing, building upkeep and construction work will form part of your day-to-day duties, ensuring that research can be carried out at the highest level. Further responsibilities will include the operation of our small fleet of vehicles and our modern media technology. You can expect a varied and exciting working environment with short reporting lines within a modern research institute, combined with opportunities for further training.

The position

• Coordination, monitoring, servicing, acceptance testing and maintenance of building services and, in some cases, safety-related systems: this concerns in particular the central compressed air supply, laboratory cleaning and drying machines, vacuum pumps, glass and smoke-proof doors, automatic door systems, fire doors, fire extinguishers and wall hydrants, crane systems, lifts, windows and doors, locking systems, arrest systems, sun protection systems, flake ice machines, video and conference systems, and outdoor facilities
• Independently carrying out repairs and maintenance work on mechanical systems
• Configuring control systems in the greenhouse
• Carrying out periodic safety inspections, in particular of ladders and steps, emergency showers and industrial trucks
• Ensuring the roadworthiness and cleanliness of the institute’s vehicle fleet, in particular monitoring vehicle condition, vehicle bookings and logbooks, as well as checking fuel invoices and repair work, including obtaining quotes;
• Assisting with the management, maintenance and configuration of building services control systems (MSR, GLT)
• Maintenance and repair of field equipment (electromechanical and pneumatic drives)
• Maintenance and repair of control systems (MSR control cabinets)
• Maintenance of the institute’s video and conference technology, as well as managing the media technology for scientific events
• Supporting and standing in for other members of the service team
• Taking part in the on-call rota for building construction, fit-out, media technology and maintenance

Your profile

• Successfully completed vocational training as a metalworker, industrial mechanic, factory mechanic, mechatronics technician or in comparable disciplines
• Several years’ practical experience in the operation and maintenance of building services systems, as well as in technical building equipment, electrical engineering, measurement and control technology or comparable specialist areas
• Practical experience in the mechanical maintenance and repair of devices, equipment and machinery
• Class B driving license is required
• Proficiency in spoken and written German is required; proficiency in spoken and written English is desirable
• Interest in collaborating with scientists at an internationally oriented research institution as well as an open and friendly communication with international colleagues
• A thorough and independent approach to work, ensuring tasks are completed on time and reliably

Our offer

Part-time work is generally possible. We will evaluate and grade the position in accordance with the collective agreement (TVöD Bund) and provide a pension plan based on public service (VBL).

The Max Planck Society (MPS) strives for gender equality and diversity. The MPS aims to increase the proportion of women in areas where they are underrepresented. Women are therefore explicitly encouraged to apply. We welcome applications from all fields. The Max Planck Society has set a goal of employing more people with severe disabilities. Applications from severely disabled persons are expressly encouraged.

Your application

The construction coordinator and technical operations manager, Mr Schwalbe, will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the role on +49 3641 57 6770. Are you interested? Please send us your application with cover letter, curriculum vitae as well as names and contact information of two references summarised in a PDF file (max. 10 MB) by e-mail to bewerbung@bgc-jena.mpg.de or to the

Max-Planck-Institut für Biogeochemie
Personalbüro: Kennwort “07/2026”
Hans-Knöll-Straße 10
07745 Jena
Germany

by 18th September 2026, quoting the reference number 07/2026. We ask that you do not use application folders, but only submit copies, as your documents will be destroyed in accordance with data protection regulations after the application process has been completed. We look forward to receiving your application!