Join the Global Leader in Lifting Solutions: Career Opportunities at PALFINGER Salzburg
Essential Job Information
| Available Positions: | 23 diverse roles in manufacturing, maintenance, engineering, and administration at our historic facility in Salzburg, Austria |
| Location: | PALFINGER AG, Franz-Wolfram-Scherer-Straße 24, 5020 Salzburg, Austria |
| Working Hours: | Full-time positions with standard industry shift patterns for production and maintenance roles |
| Contract Type: | Permanent roles with a global technology leader, offering stability and long-term career prospects |
| Educational Requirements: | Varies by position, from apprenticeships and technical certifications to advanced degrees in engineering and management |
| Experience Level: | Opportunities for all levels, from skilled labor and entry-level technicians to senior engineers and project managers |
| Language Requirements: | German proficiency is essential for most production and maintenance roles. English is required for engineering and management positions. |
| Target Candidates: | Technically skilled, safety-conscious, and innovative individuals passionate about engineering and manufacturing excellence |
| Application Email: | info@palfinger.com |
PALFINGER: Engineering the Future of Lifting Solutions Since 1932
For over 90 years, PALFINGER has been synonymous with innovation, reliability, and efficiency in the world of hydraulic lifting and loading solutions. What began in 1932 as a small workshop founded by Richard Palfinger in the heart of Austria has evolved into a global powerhouse and the undisputed leader in the manufacturing of loader cranes, timber and recycling cranes, marine cranes, and a comprehensive range of other lifting systems. With a presence in over 130 countries and a workforce of more than 12,000 dedicated employees, PALFINGER is committed to delivering cutting-edge technology and superior quality to customers across a multitude of industries. Our journey has been one of continuous growth, driven by a pioneering spirit and an unwavering focus on customer needs, transforming us from a local Austrian business into a global champion of engineering.
Our history is rich with technological breakthroughs that have set industry standards. The introduction of the first hydraulic truck-mounted loader crane in 1964 by Hubert Palfinger marked a pivotal moment, redefining the capabilities of commercial vehicles. This legacy of innovation continues with the development of groundbreaking technologies such as the Active Oscillation Suppression (AOS) system, the intelligent High Performance Stability Control (HPSC), and the revolutionary Smart Control system for intuitive crane tip control. Our commitment to research and development is unwavering, with significant investments in our global technology centers, including the state-of-the-art facility in Köstendorf, ensuring that PALFINGER remains at the forefront of the digital age with solutions like our eDRIVE technology for emission-free operation and the PALFINGER Connected telematics platform.
The Salzburg Facility: A Cornerstone of PALFINGER’s Manufacturing Excellence
At the core of our Austrian manufacturing footprint is the historic PALFINGER facility in Salzburg (Kasern), located at Franz-Wolfram-Scherer-Straße 24. Established in 1974, this plant has been a cornerstone of our production network for half a century, playing a crucial role in the development and assembly of our world-renowned crane systems. The Salzburg facility is a testament to our commitment to quality and precision, combining decades of manufacturing expertise with modern production technologies. It serves as a vital hub for crane assembly and component production, embodying the engineering excellence that our customers have come to expect from the PALFINGER brand. The strategic location in Salzburg, a city with a rich industrial heritage, provides us with access to a highly skilled workforce and a robust supply chain, enabling us to produce lifting solutions that are built to last.
A Hub for Advanced Assembly
The Salzburg plant is specialized as a central hub for the final assembly of our sophisticated crane systems. This is not simple assembly; it is a complex process of systems integration where high-tensile steel structures, complex hydraulic networks, and advanced electronic control systems are brought together. The facility is designed for high-flexibility, low-volume production, allowing us to build a wide variety of crane models tailored to specific customer orders. This plant is where the raw power of PALFINGER's engineering becomes functional reality, ready for mounting and delivery.
Synergy with the Global PALFINGER Network
The Salzburg facility operates in close concert with our other specialized Austrian sites. It receives precision-engineered hexagonal booms from our main production plant in Lengau and collaborates directly with the R&D and technology center in Köstendorf. This integration ensures that the latest innovations in materials and software are immediately implemented on the assembly line. Salzburg, therefore, acts as the vital link that translates cutting-edge engineering from our R&D hubs into the tangible, high-quality products that are shipped globally. This site is a crucial part of our global production network, which includes 30 manufacturing and assembly sites across Europe, the Americas, and Asia.
A Comprehensive Portfolio of Innovative Lifting Products
The products manufactured across our global network, with key contributions from our Austrian facilities like Salzburg, represent the most comprehensive and advanced portfolio of lifting solutions in the industry. Our products are designed to deliver superior performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness in the most demanding applications.
Our flagship product line, the Loader Cranes, has made PALFINGER the world market leader. This range includes the versatile TEC series, which combines advanced software with robust hardware, the powerful High Performance series, and the compact and efficient Compact series. These cranes are used in a vast array of industries, from construction and logistics to municipal services and waste management.
The EPSILON Timber and Recycling Cranes are the preferred choice for professionals in the forestry and recycling industries. Known for their durability, speed, and precision, these cranes are designed to handle heavy loads and withstand the rigors of continuous operation. The latest GENERATION 3 models feature an optimized steel structure for increased strength and reach.
In the maritime sector, PALFINGER MARINE is a leading global supplier of deck equipment and handling solutions. Our portfolio includes a wide range of marine cranes, wind cranes for the offshore energy industry, davits, and lifesaving equipment. These products are engineered to perform reliably in the harsh marine environment and meet the strictest safety standards.
We also offer a wide range of other specialized lifting solutions, including Hookloaders and Skiploaders from our Palift and Guima brands, which are essential for the waste and recycling industry. Our Access Platforms provide safe and efficient solutions for working at height, while our Truck-Mounted Forklifts offer unparalleled mobility and convenience for logistics operations. Furthermore, our Railway Systems provide specialized equipment for the construction and maintenance of rail infrastructure, demonstrating our ability to deliver highly customized engineering solutions.
Career Opportunities at PALFINGER Salzburg
Labor and Maintenance (8 Positions)
1. Crane Assembly Technician
Responsibilities:
Assemble hydraulic loader cranes and lifting solutions according to technical drawings.
Mount complex crane systems onto truck chassis, ensuring precise alignment and integration.
Install and connect all hydraulic and electrical components, including pumps, hoses, and control systems.
Conduct final function tests and quality checks to ensure all systems operate safely and correctly.
Adhere strictly to all safety protocols and maintain a high standard of workmanship.
2. Welder (MIG/MAG)
Responsibilities:
Perform high-quality MIG/MAG welding on structural steel components, including crane booms and frames.
Read and interpret complex welding blueprints and technical specifications to ensure accurate fabrication.
Ensure all welds meet stringent PALFINGER quality standards for strength, integrity, and precision.
Conduct visual inspections and necessary preparations of welding materials and equipment.
Maintain welding equipment and adhere to all workshop safety regulations.
3. CNC Machine Operator
Responsibilities:
Set up, program, and operate CNC milling and turning machines to produce high-precision components.
Load raw materials and select appropriate tools and machine settings for each job.
Perform rigorous quality checks on finished parts using precision measuring instruments (e.g., calipers, micrometers).
Read and interpret technical blueprints and CAD drawings to ensure accurate machining.
Conduct routine maintenance on CNC machines to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
4. Industrial Painter / Surface Treatment Specialist
Responsibilities:
Prepare, clean, and mask crane components and steel structures for surface treatment.
Operate the advanced KTL (cathodic deposition dip coating) and powder coating systems.
Apply paint layers to meet precise thickness, durability, and aesthetic specifications.
Conduct final quality inspections of the finished surface to identify and correct any defects.
Maintain all coating equipment and strictly adhere to environmental and safety standards.
5. Hydraulic Systems Technician
Responsibilities:
Assemble, install, and test complex hydraulic systems, including pumps, valves, cylinders, and hoses.
Read and interpret detailed hydraulic schematics and diagrams to ensure correct assembly.
Troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair performance issues in hydraulic circuits during assembly.
Ensure all connections are secure, torqued correctly, and free from leaks.
Verify system functionality, pressure settings, and safety features before final sign-off.
6. Electrical Systems Technician
Responsibilities:
Install and wire all electrical control systems, sensors, and lighting on crane equipment.
Connect central control panels and route cables neatly and securely according to electrical drawings.
Test and verify all electrical functions, including safety systems like HPSC and PALtronic control units.
Integrate and test advanced electronic modules, user interfaces, and telematics systems.
Troubleshoot and repair any electrical faults found during the assembly and testing phases.
7. Maintenance Technician (Mechanical)
Responsibilities:
Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on all production machinery (CNC, robots, assembly lines).
Diagnose and repair mechanical faults on hydraulic presses, welding equipment, and transport systems.
Work to minimize production downtime through efficient, timely, and precise repairs.
Document all maintenance activities, manage spare parts inventory, and report on equipment status.
Adhere to all plant safety protocols and contribute to a culture of operational excellence.
8. Quality Control Inspector
Responsibilities:
Conduct rigorous inspections of incoming raw materials and supplier components.
Perform in-process quality checks during welding, machining, and assembly stages.
Execute final functional and dimensional tests on completed crane assemblies.
Use precision measuring tools (CMM, gauges, calipers) to verify parts against technical drawings.
Document all inspection results, report non-conformities, and assist in root cause analysis.
Engineering and Technology (7 Positions)
9. Mechanical Design Engineer
Responsibilities:
Design and develop new crane models, components, and mechanical systems using 3D CAD software.
Create detailed technical drawings, specifications, and bill of materials (BOMs) for production.
Perform structural analysis (FEA) to ensure design integrity, strength, and safety.
Collaborate with production teams to ensure all designs are optimized for manufacturability (DFM).
Participate in the prototype building and testing phase, incorporating feedback into designs.
10. Hydraulic Design Engineer
Responsibilities:
Design and optimize hydraulic systems and circuits for new and existing crane models.
Create detailed hydraulic schematics and select appropriate components (pumps, valves, etc.).
Ensure all hydraulic systems meet specified performance, efficiency, and safety targets.
Collaborate with electrical engineers to flawlessly integrate electro-hydraulic control systems.
Support prototype testing and troubleshoot hydraulic performance issues.
11. Electrical Design Engineer
Responsibilities:
Design and develop electrical control systems, PLC software, and user interfaces for cranes.
Integrate advanced sensors, actuators, and telematics (PALFINGER Connected) systems.
Create comprehensive wiring diagrams, control panel layouts, and technical documentation.
Ensure all electrical designs comply with international safety standards (e.g., ISO 13849).
Provide expert electrical support to production, testing, and service teams.
12. R&D Test Engineer
Responsibilities:
Plan, design, and execute rigorous tests for new products, components, and materials.
Set up mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical test rigs and data acquisition systems.
Collect, analyze, and interpret test data to validate performance and durability.
Write detailed test reports with clear findings and recommendations for the design team.
Ensure all products are validated against internal and external design specifications and standards.
13. Manufacturing Process Engineer
Responsibilities:
Analyze and optimize core manufacturing processes (welding, assembly, coating) for efficiency and quality.
Identify and eliminate production bottlenecks using Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methods.
Implement and validate new manufacturing technologies, tools, and automation solutions.
Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all production processes.
Collaborate with design engineers to ensure new products are designed for efficient assembly (DFA).
14. Automation and Robotics Engineer
Responsibilities:
Design, implement, and maintain automated systems, including robotic welding and assembly cells.
Program, optimize, and troubleshoot PLCs and robotic systems (e.g., KUKA, Fanuc, Siemens).
Integrate vision systems, sensors, and safety protocols for automated equipment.
Train production and maintenance staff on the operation and upkeep of new automated systems.
Continuously identify and evaluate new opportunities for automation within the plant.
15. Project Manager (New Product Development)
Responsibilities:
Lead cross-functional teams (R&D, Production, Sales, Purchasing) to manage new product projects.
Develop and manage comprehensive project plans, timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
Track project progress, identify risks, and report on key milestones to senior management.
Proactively mitigate risks and remove obstacles to keep projects on track.
Ensure the final product is launched successfully on time, within budget, and meeting all quality goals.
Administration and Support (8 Positions)
16. Technical Writer / Documentation Specialist
Responsibilities:
Create clear, concise, and accurate technical documentation for end-users and service partners.
Develop and write user manuals, service/repair manuals, and spare parts catalogs.
Collaborate closely with engineers and technicians to gather and verify technical information.
Manage the entire documentation lifecycle, including version control and updates.
Adapt and format documentation for multiple platforms (print, web, mobile apps).
17. Supply Chain Coordinator
Responsibilities:
Manage the procurement and flow of materials from a global supplier base to the production line.
Place and track purchase orders to ensure timely delivery of all components.
Monitor and manage inventory levels to prevent both shortages and costly overstocking.
Collaborate with production planners to align material supply with dynamic production schedules.
Maintain strong relationships with suppliers and resolve any delivery or quality issues.
18. Production Planner
Responsibilities:
Develop and manage detailed daily and weekly production schedules to meet customer demand.
Optimize the allocation of production capacity, materials, and labor resources.
Serve as the key liaison between the sales, supply chain, and production floor teams.
Monitor production progress in real-time and adjust schedules to address any delays or changes.
Analyze production data (e.g., cycle times) to improve planning accuracy and on-time delivery.
19. Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Officer
Responsibilities:
Ensure the Salzburg facility complies with all Austrian health, safety, and environmental regulations.
Conduct regular safety audits, risk assessments, and incident investigations.
Develop, implement, and deliver HSE training programs for all employees and contractors.
Promote a strong, proactive "safety-first" culture throughout the entire organization.
Manage environmental reporting, waste management, and sustainability initiatives.
20. IT Support Specialist
Responsibilities:
Provide first and second-level technical support for all on-site hardware, software, and network issues.
Install, configure, and maintain employee workstations, laptops, printers, and mobile devices.
Troubleshoot problems with business applications, operating systems (Windows), and ERP software.
Manage user accounts, permissions, and access rights within Active Directory.
Document all support tickets and solutions, contributing to the internal IT knowledge base.
21. Human Resources Generalist
Responsibilities:
Manage the end-to-end recruitment process, from job postings and interviews to contract creation.
Coordinate the onboarding and orientation process for all new hires at the Salzburg facility.
Act as a primary point of contact for employees regarding HR policies, payroll, and benefits.
Support performance management cycles, training coordination, and employee development.
Ensure all HR practices comply with Austrian labor laws and company regulations.
22. Financial Controller
Responsibilities:
Monitor and analyze the financial performance and KPIs of the Salzburg facility.
Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual budgets, forecasts, and financial variance reports.
Analyze production costs, overhead, and inventory to support management decision-making.
Ensure compliance with internal financial controls and corporate accounting standards.
Collaborate with department managers to identify cost-saving opportunities and drive profitability.
23. Sales Support Administrator
Responsibilities:
Provide critical administrative and operational support to the regional sales team.
Process customer orders accurately and efficiently into the company's ERP system.
Prepare and send out official quotations, sales proposals, and customer contracts.
Act as a key liaison between the sales team, production planning, and logistics.
Respond directly to customer inquiries regarding order status, delivery times, and product information.
Advanced Manufacturing Technologies and Processes
The PALFINGER Salzburg facility represents the pinnacle of modern manufacturing excellence, incorporating advanced production technologies and processes that ensure the highest quality standards. Our manufacturing operations are built on the foundation of lean production principles, continuous improvement methodologies, and state-of-the-art automation systems. The facility features sophisticated welding robots that deliver consistent and precise welds, CNC machining centers that produce components with exceptional accuracy, and automated assembly lines that ensure efficient and reliable production. Our commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of our operations, from the incoming inspection of raw materials to the final testing of completed products.
State-of-the-Art Surface Treatment
One of the key strengths of our Salzburg facility is our advanced surface treatment capabilities, including the innovative KTL (cathodic deposition dip coating) technology that provides superior corrosion protection and durability. This multi-stage process involves the electrochemical deposition of paint onto metal surfaces, resulting in a uniform and highly adherent coating that penetrates every corner and edge, significantly extending the service life of our products. This base layer is complemented by our advanced powder coating systems, which provide an environmentally friendly, durable, and aesthetically superior finish that meets the most demanding performance requirements.
Precision Machining and Assembly
Our facility houses a bank of high-performance CNC machining centers responsible for producing components with micron-level accuracy. This precision is non-negotiable for the performance of our hydraulic systems. The assembly process itself is a carefully choreographed integration of these precision parts. Our assembly lines are modular and flexible, staffed by highly skilled technicians who specialize in complex hydraulic and electrical system integration. Each station is equipped with digital work instructions and advanced tooling to ensure every assembly step is performed consistently and correctly, culminating in a product that embodies PALFINGER's reputation for quality.
The integration of digital technologies is a key focus at our Salzburg facility, aligning with PALFINGER's broader digitalization strategy. We utilize advanced manufacturing execution systems (MES) to monitor and optimize our production processes in real-time, ensuring maximum efficiency and quality. Our predictive maintenance systems use sensor data and machine learning algorithms to anticipate equipment failures before they occur, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity. Furthermore, our digital twin technology allows us to simulate and optimize our manufacturing processes virtually, reducing the time and cost associated with process development and improvement.
Innovation and Research & Development Excellence
Innovation is at the heart of everything we do at PALFINGER, and our Salzburg facility plays a crucial role in our global research and development efforts. Our engineers and technicians work closely with our R&D centers in Köstendorf and other locations to develop the next generation of lifting solutions. This collaborative approach ensures that our products incorporate the latest technological advances and meet the evolving needs of our customers. Our innovation process is driven by a deep understanding of customer requirements, market trends, and emerging technologies, enabling us to deliver solutions that provide superior performance, efficiency, and value.
Proximity to R&D Implementation
The Salzburg facility's close geographical and organizational proximity to the main R&D hub in Köstendorf is a significant strategic advantage. This allows for rapid prototyping and immediate feedback from the production floor to the design engineers. New technologies, such as the revolutionary Smart Control system, are tested and refined in collaboration with the very technicians who will build them, ensuring that innovation is not just theoretical but practical, scalable, and robust from day one.
Implementing Smart Solutions
The development of our revolutionary Smart Control system exemplifies our commitment to innovation. This intelligent crane tip control technology represents a significant advancement in crane operation, providing operators with intuitive control and enhanced precision for complex lifting operations. The system uses advanced algorithms and sensor technology to automatically adjust crane movements, reducing operator fatigue and improving productivity. Similarly, our eDRIVE technology demonstrates our leadership in sustainable solutions, offering customers the ability to operate their equipment with zero emissions while maintaining full functionality and performance. These systems are actively integrated and tested within the Salzburg plant.
A Culture of Continuous Improvement
Our commitment to continuous improvement extends to our manufacturing processes as well. We regularly implement kaizen events and value stream mapping exercises to identify opportunities for efficiency improvements and waste reduction. Our employees are actively engaged in this improvement process through suggestion programs and cross-functional improvement teams. This culture of continuous improvement has enabled us to achieve significant gains in productivity, quality, and customer satisfaction while reducing our environmental footprint.
Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship
PALFINGER is committed to sustainable manufacturing practices and environmental stewardship, and our Salzburg facility exemplifies these values through comprehensive environmental management systems and sustainable production processes. We have implemented energy-efficient manufacturing equipment and LED lighting systems throughout the facility to minimize energy consumption. Our waste reduction programs focus on source reduction, material substitution, and recycling to minimize our environmental impact. Additionally, we have established partnerships with suppliers who share our commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices.
Our environmental initiatives extend beyond our manufacturing operations to include the development of sustainable products and solutions. The introduction of our eDRIVE technology represents a significant step forward in reducing the environmental impact of our products, enabling customers to operate their equipment with zero emissions. We are also investing in the development of lightweight materials and-efficient hydraulic systems that reduce fuel consumption and environmental impact throughout the product lifecycle. These efforts are supported by comprehensive life cycle assessments that help us identify opportunities for further environmental improvements.
The facility maintains strict compliance with all applicable environmental regulations and industry standards, and we regularly conduct environmental audits to ensure ongoing compliance and identify opportunities for improvement. Our environmental management system is certified to ISO 14001 standards, demonstrating our commitment to systematic environmental management and continuous improvement. We also engage with local communities and stakeholders to promote environmental awareness and support sustainable development initiatives in the Salzburg region.
Application Process
To apply for any of these exciting career opportunities at our Salzburg facility, please send your detailed resume and a cover letter to our recruitment team at info@palfinger.com. In the subject line of your email, please specify the position you are applying for (e.g., "Application for Crane Assembly Technician"). Our recruitment team will carefully review your qualifications and experience, and candidates whose profiles match our requirements will be contacted for an interview. PALFINGER is an equal opportunity employer and we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We look forward to receiving your application and exploring how you can contribute to our legacy of engineering excellence and innovation.
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