Vocational Training at Fraunhofer EMFT

Start your career with a vocational training program at our institute – discover your strengths in technology, IT, science, or administration and work alongside our experts on innovative projects with real-world applications.

Your Training in the World of Research

Are you finishing school and wondering what your next step should be? Are you looking for a training program that’s not only exciting, but also truly meaningful? At Fraunhofer EMFT, you’ll work in an innovative environment focused on developing technologies that benefit people and the environment.

Your vocational training – hands-on and future-focused

Whether you’re interested in business, IT, science, or technology – we offer a wide range of opportunities to develop your talents. From day one, you’ll be actively involved in real projects in our modern offices, labs, or cleanrooms. You'll learn how research and innovation are brought to life and applied in everyday work. Together with our experts, you'll work on exciting projects that have real-world impact – experiencing firsthand how theory becomes practice and how research drives real change.

Vocational training programs at Fraunhofer EMFT:

  • Microtechnologist (m/f/d)
  • IT Specialist for System Integration (m/f/d)
  • Industrial Mechanic (m/f/d)
  • Office Management Assistant (m/f/d)

Currently, we are offering an apprenticeship for: Industrial Mechanic (m/f/d).

>> Vocational training as an Industrial Mechanic (m/w/d)

Our Apprenticeships

In this dual apprenticeship, you will learn step by step how to manufacture highly precise microsystems and semiconductors. You’ll start with the basics: understanding technical documentation, operating production equipment, and working in cleanrooms.

Gradually, you will expand your technical expertise: inspecting and testing components, and applying modern manufacturing processes such as structuring, etching, or bonding.

A key focus is working in cleanrooms and laboratories, where precision and careful attention to detail are essential. At the same time, you will deepen your knowledge in vocational school, covering subjects such as engineering, signal processing, and other fundamentals for the high-tech industry.

Throughout your training, you will also gain insights into environmental protection, data privacy, and energy efficiency - ensuring that you work not only with technical skill but also responsibly.

Do you enjoy shaping technology, keeping machines running, and thinking logically? Then an apprenticeship as an Industrial Mechanic is perfect for you.

During your training, you will build, install, and maintain machines and production systems. You’ll set up production processes, troubleshoot problems, repair faulty parts, and ensure everything runs smoothly. Whether it’s routine maintenance, CNC manufacturing, or 3D printing - you’ll be right in the middle of creating and keeping innovative technology in action.

You’ll also monitor production processes, optimize workflows, and handle repairs, gaining hands-on experience that keeps high-tech machinery running reliably.

Are you interested in technology, enjoy logical thinking, and find IT systems fascinating? Then an apprenticeship as an IT Specialist in System Integration is perfect for you!

During your training, you’ll learn how to set up, network, and manage IT systems. You’ll select the right hardware and software, configure systems, and ensure everything runs smoothly. You’ll also be the go-to person for your colleagues - explaining how technology works, helping solve problems, and keeping systems up to date. Step by step, you’ll become a professional who not only understands IT solutions but actively shapes them.

Do you want a career where you keep an overview, actively shape processes, and play an important role in daily operations? Then this apprenticeship is perfect for you!

As a Management Assistant in Office Administration, you’ll coordinate appointments and meetings, prepare essential documents, and communicate with colleagues, clients, and external partners—always at the heart of the action. From planning business trips and creating presentations to handling inquiries or invoices, you’ll take on a variety of tasks that combine responsibility with variety.

If you enjoy structured work, have strong communication skills, and like shaping processes, this profession offers an ideal start to a secure, future-oriented career.

Got questions? We’ve got answers.

What qualifications or skills do I need to start an apprenticeship at Fraunhofer EMFT?

A specific school-leaving certificate is not strictly required to start an apprenticeship at Fraunhofer EMFT. Typically, our trainees have completed secondary school (Mittlere Reife), hold a technical diploma (Fachhochschulreife), or have graduated with the Abitur. However, it is also possible to begin an apprenticeship with a lower secondary school certificate (Hauptschulabschluss). Since the institute evaluates applications individually, feel free to contact us directly to find out whether your qualification is sufficient.

You're motivated but didn't finish your studies? A hands-on apprenticeship at Fraunhofer EMFT is also a great opportunity for those who left university without a degree.

How do I apply, and which documents are required?

It’s best to apply online via our job posting.

Please include the following documents with your application:

  • A cover letter with your full contact details (address, phone number, and email)
  • A CV with information about your school qualifications, favorite subjects, language skills, and interests
  • Copies of your school reports from the last two academic years (final and mid-year reports) or your graduation certificate (no official certification required)

What happens next?
If we’re interested in your application, we’ll get in touch with you to discuss the next steps.

By the way: If there isn’t a suitable apprenticeship listed at the moment, feel free to ask whether a posting is planned - or simply send us a speculative application.

How much will I earn during the apprenticeship?

During your apprenticeship, you will receive a training allowance. At Fraunhofer, the regulations of the collective agreement for apprentices in the public sector (Tarifvertrag für Auszubildende des öffentlichen Dienstes – TVAöD) apply.

In addition, you will receive a flat-rate allowance for learning materials. If you live far from home, we will reimburse the cost of one trip home per month to visit your parents, legal guardians, or spouse/registered partner.
If your vocational school and training institute (Fraunhofer EMFT) are located in different municipalities, travel expenses will also be reimbursed. (Detailed information can be found in §§ 10 and 11 of the collective agreement for apprentices in the public sector.)

What are my career prospects?

An apprenticeship at Fraunhofer lays the foundation for a successful professional future. Whether at one of the Fraunhofer Society’s more than 70 institutes and administrative locations or as a qualified specialist in various companies and industries, many paths are open to you.

After completing your apprenticeship, you have the opportunity, for example, to take the trainer aptitude exam and train the next generation yourself.

Further professional qualification - such as becoming a technician or specialist - is also a possible next step. Additionally, you can pursue a higher school-leaving certificate, university studies, or a dual study program. During your studies, you can gain valuable practical experience working as a student assistant at Fraunhofer.

With the knowledge and experience from your Fraunhofer apprenticeship, many doors will open for you - allowing you to shape your career according to your own ideas. 

You might also be interested in:

Apprenticeship at the Fraunhofer Society

You can find even more apprenticeship opportunities at the numerous Fraunhofer institutes across Germany.

Get to know Fraunhofer EMFT

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