System Engineering Trainee Program

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft currently operates 75 institutes and research institutions throughout Germany and is the world's leading applied research organization. Around employees work with an annual research budget of 3.4 billion euros. The Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS, located in Erlangen, is the largest institute of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft with more than 1 200 employees.

Welcome to the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS, headquartered in Erlangen As the largest institute within the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, we have been conducting research for over 30 years in diverse fields such as artificial intelligence, microelectronics, sensor systems, data acquisition, signal processing, and signal transmission. Talented individuals from various engineering and natural science disciplines will find a wide range of exciting research topics under one roof. A few highlights that reflect our innovative strength include neuromorphic computing, 5G/6G mobile communication technologies, generative AI in speech and signal processing, and X-ray imaging for e-mobility. And that's just the beginning What sustainable solution will you find with us?

Here's how you will make a difference

At the Fraunhofer IIS department Chip Design Center (CDC), we advance systems engineering for complex integrated circuits—from requirements engineering and system-level design to modular, scalable architectures. We explore chiplet-based systems and heterogeneously integrated systems and develop methods for AI‑assisted systems engineering to make design flows faster, more robust, and more efficient.

• Technical Introduction: You will participate in basic Electrical Engineering, PCB Design, Semiconductor Technology, Heterogeneous Integration and System Engineering.
• Real Project Collaboration: You will collaborate on real projects under the guidance of experienced engineers.
• Hands-On Experience: You will gain hands-on experience in Model-based Systems Engineering, starting from a System Idea through Requirements Engineering, System Partitioning, and Variation down to Implementation.
• Cross-Team Collaboration: You will collaborate with teams from different domains to experience interdisciplinary workflows and integrated product development.

What you bring to the table

• Master's degree in electrical engineering or related fields such as medical engineering.
• Ideally, a focus of study in Microelectronics, with experience in System Design or related areas, is advantageous.
• Fundamental knowledge in software engineering and familiarity with circuit technology.
• High level of motivation and the ability to work independently.
• Strong team spirit and good communication skills.

What you can expect

• Our Leading R&D Facility: Fraunhofer IIS is one of Europe's leading R&D IC design facilities, providing a robust platform for innovation.
• Tailored Trainee Program: We offer an individually tailored trainee program that combines academic and professional development, ensuring you gain valuable experience.
• Insight into Innovative Technologies: Our program provides insight into innovative technologies and state-of-the-art design methodologies.
• Opportunities for Growth: You will have the opportunity for personal and professional growth in a dynamic setting that encourages continuous learning.
• Access to State-of-the-Art Equipment: We work with state-of-the-art equipment in a highly innovative research environment, allowing you to benefit from a unique network of experts and partners in research and academia.
• Supportive Mentoring Program: Your goals and interests are important to us, and we regularly support you with a mentoring program to help you achieve your aspirations.

The position is initially limited to 6 months, starting in April 2026. The weekly working time is 39 hours.

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Appointment, remuneration and social security benefits based on the public-sector collective wage agreement (TVöD).

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

Ready to make a difference?

Apply online now and be part of our innovation journey Once we've received your application, you will automatically receive a confirmation email. We will then get in touch as soon as possible to inform you about the next steps.

Do you have questions about the application process? Our recruiter Nina Wörlein will be happy to assist you.

Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS