State-Certified Technician (m/f/d) | Chemistry or Biology

Scientific and Technical Assistance Jena
Microbiology & Ecology Earth Sciences and Climate Research

Job Code: 07/2024

Job Offer from April 18, 2024

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 230 people, will celebrate 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. We are looking for a State-Certified Technician specialising in chemistry or biology (m/f/d) for part-time 19,5 hours; 1 year limited.

Background and position description

The Service Laboratory Stable Isotopes (BGC-IsoLab) is responsible for high-precision measurements of stable isotopes on various sample types. In addition to routine measurements, the BGC-IsoLab also deals with the standardisation of isotope measurements and other scientific questions. The post holder works in a team of five employees. The main focus of the work is the entire logistics of the air samples, including the management of approx. 5000 sample flasks, the cleaning and repair of the flasks, as well as the communication with all relevant internal and external scientists and measuring stations that require flasks.

Your tasks

  • Responsible for the entire logistics of the sample flasks (approx. 5000 flasks)
  • Communicating in German and English with internal and external scientists and those responsible for measuring stations
  • Testing, cleaning and repairing sample flasks with solvents
  • Heating out the flasks and filling with compressed air or sample gas
  • Flask management in the laboratory database (entering and removing flasks, documenting work steps of the flasks; documentation of incoming samples; documentation of dispatch)
  • Writing and adapting standard operating instructions and procedures (SOPs)
  • Support of student assistants

Your profile

  • Successfully completed vocational training as a state-certified technician in the field of chemistry, biology, chemical engineering, laboratory technology or comparable qualifications
  • Experience in general analytical chemistry and/or environmental chemistry; experience with gas samples desirable
  • Handling hazardous substances and pressurized gas containers
  • Knowledge of how to use PCs and MS Office applications
  • Good knowledge of written and spoken German and English
  • Strong team and communication skills and service orientation
  • Initiative and a sense of responsibility
  • Very good time and priority management
  • A goal-oriented, structured and careful way of working

Our offer

Part-time work is generally possible. The position will be evaluated and graded following the collective agreement according to TVöD Bund; in addition, we will provide a pension plan based on the 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 itself the goal of employing more severely disabled people. Applications from severely disabled persons are expressly encouraged.

Your application

Are you interested? Please send us your application with cover letter, curriculum vitae as well a s names and contact information of two references summarised in a PDF file (max. 10 MB) by May 10, 2024, quoting the reference number 07/2024 by e-mail to or to the

Max-Planck-Institut für Biogeochemie
Personalbüro: Kennwort “ State-certified technician specialising”
Hans-Knöll-Straße 10
07745 Jena

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!

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