Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials IWM
Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials IWM

Careers

Do you want to make the world a better place? Or actively help shape the technologies of tomorrow? Then Fraunhofer IWM is the right place for you. We conduct research on materials and systems that will shape our future — and we’re looking for people who don’t just want to contribute their ideas, but who want to help shape the future.

At the intersection of science, research, and industry, people from all fields shape the future here — from students to research scientists and technical staff to administrative personnel. Every role counts; every perspective makes a difference.

We don’t offer rigid career paths, but genuine opportunities for growth. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career: we give you room for your own ideas, encourage personal responsibility, and value fresh perspectives. In interdisciplinary teams, you’ll work on projects from the initial idea to the prototype, benefit from the expertise of experienced colleagues, and contribute your own unique strengths at the same time.

Because we believe that change starts with us — and with you.

The future won't wait — and neither will we.

 

Whether it's science, administration, communications, or technology — with us, you can actively help shape the future. Discover where you can get involved.

Explore our job openings

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All Job Openings at a Glance

 

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Apprenticeships

Your future starts here: Learn about the apprenticeship programs at Fraunhofer IWM and kick off your career at one of Europe’s largest research institutions.

Open apprenticeship positions

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High School Students

Whether it's BOGY, Bors, or Girls' Day—there are plenty of opportunities for students to get a glimpse into the work at a research institute.

 

Get to know Fraunhofer IWM
 

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University Students

We offer students a wide range of opportunities to deepen their theoretical knowledge. In addition to supervision for thesis projects, joining us as a student research assistant or intern provides insight into applied research in the field of mechanics of materials at Fraunhofer IWM.

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Scientists

Whether you're pursuing a Ph.D. or looking to enter the academic field, we offer a wide range of opportunities to engage in hands-on research and strengthen the bridge between academia, society, and industry.

Open positions in the field of science

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Entry-Level and Experienced Professionals

Career opportunities at Fraunhofer IWM are as diverse as our research topics — whether in administration, engineering, or research.

Open positions in engineering, administration, and research

Fraunhofer IWM as an Employer

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Diversity

We are committed to fostering an open and diverse work environment where everyone is welcome and can contribute.

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Work-Life Balance

Flexible working hours and a supportive corporate culture ensure that your professional and personal lives are well balanced. Whether it’s flextime or part-time work, we support a variety of work arrangements so you can find the right balance between work and life.

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TVöD

You’ll benefit from fair pay based on the TVöD or TVAöD, which offers transparent conditions and job security.

Current TVöD pay scale

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(Germany) Job Ticket

With our (Germany) Job Ticket, you can get to work comfortably and in an eco-friendly way.

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Professional Development

With us, you can continuously build on your skills through workshops, training sessions, and personalized development opportunities.

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pme Familienservice

We help you balance work and family life with our family services. 

FAQ

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  • For your application, we need:

    • Résumé – so we can get an overview of your background
    • Degree certificates – high school, college, or vocational training
    • Employment references – if available
    • Cover letter (optional, but recommended) – so we can get to know your motivation and personality better

  • You can either check our job listings page regularly to find current openings, or sign up for our job newsletter. That way, you’ll automatically receive a notification as soon as suitable positions are posted.

  • You can find the right contact person directly on the career page for each position. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out at any time. Especially for our student positions, there is often a subject matter expert whom you can contact directly with technical questions.

  • If you submit your application directly through our website, you will automatically receive a confirmation that we have received your documents. As soon as we have reviewed your application, our recruiter will contact you as soon as possible — usually within two weeks at the latest.

  • If you have any questions about your application, feel free to contact our recruiting team at any time. You can find the phone number on our careers page. Alternatively, you can email us at recruiting@iwm.fraunhofer.de — we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

  • Your application materials will be stored for a maximum of six months and then deleted. If you would like to be added to our applicant pool, your materials may be stored for a longer period with your prior consent. You may, of course, withdraw this consent at any time.

  • You can submit unsolicited applications through our job openings page. We categorize these applications by field — including research, administration, and technology — as well as by type, such as internships, theses, and student research assistant positions. This allows you to specify directly to which area you’d like to contribute.