Working as custom design engineer
Discover the Systems + Solutions team
At Systems + Solutions, we don’t just deliver products, we deliver complete, one-of-a-kind solutions, from concept to commissioning. Every system is designed to meet the specific technical, operational, and strategic needs of our customers.
What are you looking for?
Engineering custom solutions starts with a challenge
Systems + Solutions is a specialized business unit within Leybold, dedicated to developing customized vacuum applications that go far beyond standard solutions. As part of a global technology leader in vacuum innovation, we combine Leybold’s legacy of engineering excellence with our own focus on tailor-made systems for complex, high-performance environments.
What it takes to design custom vacuum systems
Customized vacuum systems occur in almost all industries: from the steel industry to chemical processing, space simulation, medical technology or oil and gas. Quite often, companies face unique challenges that require unique vacuum systems.
Our work begins where standard solutions end. Each project is a one-off, engineered and executed by cross-functional teams with expertise in:
- Process and systems engineering
- Mechanical and electrical design
- Software, automation, and control systems
- Technical and commercial project management
How we design and deliver tailor-made vacuum systems
From the first idea to the final installation, we work closely with our customers to engineer, build, and commission fully customized vacuum systems.
Our solutions are built on precision, collaboration, and a clear understanding of what each process demands. This is true engineering: no copy-paste, no shortcuts.
Examples of custom-engineered vacuum systems
Simulating space on earth
One of the most fascinating areas we work in is space simulation. With our UNIVEX Space Simulation Systems, we create the conditions of outer space right here on Earth. Our vacuum chambers need to mimic ultra-high vacuum and extreme temperatures ranging from -80 °C to +180 °C.
These systems are used to test critical space hardware such as ion thrusters, satellite modules, and sensor components. Our custom-designed vacuum chambers range from compact setups for material testing to large installations over six meters long, capable of simulating the vacuum and thermal conditions of space for months at a time. Each system brings together our engineering capabilities, combining:
- High-performance vacuum technology (up to 1E-07 mbar)
- Advanced thermal control systems
- Fully automated test sequences
- Custom configurations for every mission profile
Our colleagues and Systems + Solutions combine engineering and exploration to build these vacuum solutions. Your work directly contributes to the success of space missions.
Universal experimentation systems for research and development
A standout example of an innovation from Systems + Solutions is UNIVEX: a modular system family for thin-film deposition,material research and space simulation.
UNIVEX systems enable a wide range of applications, including:
- Development of new coating processes
- Nanostructure and optical layer research
- Biocompatible and chemically resistant surfaces
- Medical and sensor technologies
- Flexible electronics and semiconductor applications
- Space simulation under extreme conditions
With 750+ systems installed worldwide, UNIVEX is trusted by leading universities, high-tech companies, research institutions, like Stanford University and the Technical University of Munich. Working with Systems + Solutions means supporting cutting-edge science every day.
What to expect as a Systems + Solutions team member
Your benefits at Systems + Solutions
At Systems + Solutions, you become part of a culture that values your growth, supports your ambitions, and offers real opportunities. Projects are always packed with innovation and call onto your professional skill as well as creativity. Here’s what you can expect:
- International work environment
Collaborate with colleagues from all over the world and contribute to global projects that make a difference.
- Global travel opportunities
Depending on your role, you travel internationally, whether for system commissioning, customer support, or collaboration with research and industry partners. Your work takes you to the forefront of innovation around the world.
- Technological diversity and innovation
From space simulation to nanotechnology and medical applications: you’ll work on cutting-edge technologies with real-world impact.
- Personal and professional growth
We support your development through training, mentoring, and career paths tailored to your strengths and goals.
- Modern and flexible work environment
Enjoy flexible work models, mobile system interfaces and digital tools that empower you to work efficiently in the office or on the go.
- Team spirit and collaboration
We believe in the power of teamwork. You’ll work in interdisciplinary teams where openness, mutual support and shared success are part of the culture. And because great collaboration deserves celebration, we host regular team events, from workshops to offsites. - Responsibility and creative freedom
From day one, you’ll take on responsibility and have the freedom to shape ideas and drive innovation. - Stability and sustainability
Our systems are built to last, just like our partnerships. We focus on long-term collaboration, sustainable technologies and industrial-grade reliability.
Meet the Systems + Solutions team
We are innovators, problem-solvers, and collaborators. With 350+ passionate professionals across 8 countries, we turn complexity into clarity, and customer challenges into real-world success.
Carina – Junior Commissioning Engineer at Systems + Solutions Cologne
My name is Carina, I am 32 years old, and I have been working at Systems as a Junior Commissioning Engineer since January 1, 2025. I completed my apprenticeship at Leybold in 2022 and then worked in maintenance before joining the team.
From maintenance to commissioning – Carina’s career path
Why I enjoy working at Systems + Solutions
I truly enjoy working at Systems because I find the equipment and its wide range of applications fascinating. It excites me how versatile the technology can be. I can always rely on my team. The atmosphere is collegial and open, and as a new colleague, I received great support from the very beginning.
A look into my workday
My workdays vary depending on whether I am in Cologne, attending a training session, or on site with a customer. During commissioning or training, my schedule is shaped by the conditions on site. When I am in Cologne, my day is more flexible. I usually start by checking and responding to emails in the morning, then move on to the system to work on the tasks at hand.
Challenges that helped me grow
The biggest challenge for me was the steep learning curve in the beginning. The technology, the processes, and the level of responsibility were all new. But that is exactly what helped me grow so quickly. With every new task, I continue to learn and develop.
What makes Systems + Solutions special
At Systems, every system is unique. Each one comes with its own requirements and challenges. Anyone who joins Systems should enjoy technical variety, flexible problem-solving, and a mindset of continuous learning.
Israel - Project and Proposal Engineer at Systems + Solutions Pittsburgh
My name is Israel and I’m a Proposal and Project Engineer for Systems + Solutions. I’ve been a part of the team for two years now. I used to live in California but moved all the way to Pittsburgh to work here!
Why I enjoy working at Systems + Solutions
The leadership team genuinely cares for their workers. I have felt greatly valued, appreciated, and cultivated during my time here. I’ve been in work situations where leadership did not care for the lower members of the Team, and the difference working here is night and day compared to that. Everyone who I’ve worked with is not only excellent in their work but also enjoyable to work with. There are great opportunities to grow, excel and form great relationships here!
A role full of variety and purpose
No two days are the same. There’s usually a whole host of things to do. Typical main objectives include generating technical quotes and then driving orders from start to shipment that come in based on those quotes. But personally, I’m also involved in 6S projects, novel sales projects, Root Cause analyses, Continuous Improvement projects and many more. There’s always another task to keep you busy, but the leadership here is good at detecting your strengths and weaknesses and directing your growth towards harnessing them in a fulfilling way.
Learning through real experience
The first big project I worked on with many specifications had a steep learning curve. I made many mistakes along the way but my knowledge and wisdom in what to look out for grew immensely. I was also supported by several highly knowledgeable and helpful teammates who helped guide my way of thinking towards good solutions for my problems. Because of the encouragement of collaboration and accountability, I’ve found myself succeeding more and more ever since starting here!
It is all about the people
The people are the foundation of what makes Systems + Solutions great. We have team members who are committed to fostering an ethical, collaborative, and continuously improving culture. This not only helps us excel as a team but also allows us to maintain high morale through the strong relationships we build. At Systems and Solutions, we have robust processes that ensure consistency and quality, but ultimately, it is the people who make us stand out.
Join us and shape the future of vacuum technology
Want to help shape the technologies of tomorrow? Then you’re in the right place.
Whether you're a skilled technician, a design thinker, an engineer, or a strategic planner — at Systems + Solutions, you’ll find a role where your strengths contribute to building the future of vacuum technology.
We’re looking for talent in many areas, including (but not limited to):
- Engineering & design
Turn complex requirements into smart, future-ready vacuum solutions. - Manufacturing & assembly
Create precision systems, from compact units to large-scale installations. - Service & support
Ensure our systems perform at their best, worldwide. - Project & quality management
Drive success across disciplines and maintain our high standards. - Supply chain & operations
Keep innovation flowing with the right components at the right time.
Apply now and become part of a team that enjoys a challenge and lives for innovation.
