Automation Technician

About the role

Imagine working side by side with an Automation Engineer, taking ownership of projects from the very first idea all the way to a fully operational system on the shop floor. This role sits right at the intersection of concept and reality, where designs turn into working machines. While the Automation Engineer defines the system architecture, this position is deeply hands-on, shaping setups, building prototypes, and driving the electrical and controls side of every solution. Every decision made has a direct impact on performance, reliability, and safety, which remains non-negotiable in everything delivered.

At Destinus, we are revolutionizing the defense industry with cutting-edge Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Our innovative technologies are designed to meet the unique demands of modern defense operations, delivering unparalleled speed, precision, and cost effectiveness. Destinus partners with government agencies and defense organizations worldwide to provide advanced solutions for mission-critical operations, enabling a new era of efficiency and technological superiority. Join us in shaping the future of defense with groundbreaking aerospace innovations.

What You´ll Do

• Contribute to the design and development of new automation setups alongside the Automation Engineer, from early concept through prototype
• Create schematics, design, build and wire electrical cabinets according to applicable Swiss/EU standards (certified to do so)
• Program and commission PLC for production and R&D setups
• Support the integration and programming of cobots, preferably Universal Robots (UR) and Polyscope 5 or similar collaborative robot platforms
• Apply machine safety practices in compliance with applicable Swiss SUVA regulations and the machinery directive
• Install, commission, and maintain automated machines and production setups for rocket motor and pyrotechnic component manufacturing
• Troubleshoot electrical and control system faults, carry out corrective and preventive maintenance
• Maintain wiring diagrams, commissioning records, and maintenance logs in line with company standards

Requirements

What You’ll Need

• Completed vocational training (EFZ) as an automation technician, electrician, or equivalent – with certification to build and wire electrical cabinets independently
• 2–3 years of professional experience in automation, electrical installation, or industrial controls
• Interest in and some exposure to the design and development side of automation – not just build and maintain
• Solid knowledge of machine safety standards and SUVA regulations applicable to automated systems, ideally ESTI Certification
• Experience in programming PLCs using structured text (e.g. Wago together with codesys or similar)
• Experience with cobot integration or programming, ideally Universal Robots (UR) and Polyscope 5 or equivalent platforms
• Ability to create wiring schematics and work from technical drawings
• Structured, reliable, and safety-conscious working style – able to work independently and in a team
• Good communication skills in English, German optional
• Willingness to travel to different Destinus sites in Switzerland (max. 20%)

Who You Are

You thrive in a hands-on environment where ideas quickly become reality. Comfortable working close to the hardware, building, testing, and iterating until things work exactly as they should. You don’t wait for perfect instructions, you take ownership, figure things out, and push solutions forward. You have a strong sense of responsibility when it comes to safety and quality, understanding that every detail matters in a production environment. Problem-solving comes naturally, especially when things don’t go as planned. Collaboration is key, and you work seamlessly alongside engineers, contributing with a practical mindset and a focus on getting things done.