After Two Weeks, It Was Clear: I Want To Stay Here – An Insight Into Felix’s Job as a Senior Software Development Engineer
Felix works as a software development engineer at Vector and develops solutions for charging infrastructure. From new features to testing and release approval, he is responsible for ensuring stable and future-proof software. In this People Story, he explains why agile software development, clear coordination, and genuine teamwork make all the difference for him.
Hi Felix, please introduce yourself briefly and give us an insight into your responsibilities at Vector.
I’m a senior software development engineer at Vector and work as a full-stack software developer in the Offboard Electronic Charging Solutions division. We develop solutions for charging infrastructure, ranging from software and hardware for charging stations to a charging station management system, which—to put it simply—intelligently controls the charging processes of electric vehicles to ensure the grid remains stable, available energy is used optimally, and electricity costs are saved.
I take on two roles within the team: As a feature owner, I specify, develop, and test new features. And as a software release manager, I coordinate the release of new software versions.
What did you study? How did you end up at Vector—and what convinced you to join the company back then?
I studied mechatronics (bachelor’s and master’s) at Reutlingen University. I first became aware of Vector during my practical semester as part of my bachelor’s program. Afterward, Vector supported me with a scholarship, and I later wrote my master’s thesis here. I was then hired directly.
I wrote my master’s thesis on the design of backend software to enable ISO 15118-compliant plug & charge for electric vehicles. This involves installing a contract certificate in the vehicle, which is then used for authorization and authentication as well as for billing a charging process at charging stations.
What convinced me was the open work atmosphere, the opportunity to take on responsibility from day one, and the fact that my ideas were taken seriously.
What are you currently working on, or what has been your most exciting project so far?
Over the past few months, I’ve been working on the integration of the so-called open charge point interface (OCPI). This is an open protocol in the field of electric mobility that enables communication between various stakeholders, such as charge point operators (CPOs) and e-mobility service providers (EMSPs). This allows, for example, charging processes to be initiated via an app and then billed.
Technologically, I work with Java Spring Boot, PostgreSQL, and Docker on the backend, as well as Angular on the frontend.
How would you describe teamwork or the atmosphere at Vector?
What I appreciate about Vector: We talk openly about ideas—regardless of whether we’re junior or senior. When I need support, I just call someone. No long meetings, no hurdles. This applies just as much within the team as it does with other divisions or with customers. We help each other out, quickly and easily.
What have you been able to learn or try at Vector that you hadn’t encountered during your studies?
At Vector, I’ve learned to develop using agile methods—which means continuously delivering new features in short iterations and gathering feedback. A key aspect of this is thoroughly testing the software to identify and fix bugs early on. It’s also particularly important to write maintainable code that others can easily maintain and further develop.
What skills or qualities are particularly helpful in your job?
Curiosity is the most important thing. You should be eager to try out new technologies and familiarize yourself with topics you’re not yet familiar with. If you enjoy programming, are open to new things, and love learning as part of a team, then Vector is the perfect fit for you.
(The video is in German, please select English subtitles in the settings.)
