Senior Automation Engineer
Content + Source + Freshness • 13 Dec 2025 • 95% confidence
Offer value
High-level position offering significant responsibilities and involvement in cutting-edge naval technology projects.
- Collaborate on advanced automation for naval vessels
- In-depth involvement with multidisciplinary projects
- Strong career growth potential in a reputable organization
Pros
- Involvement in advanced automated systems design for naval vessels
- Opportunity to work with leading-edge technologies
- Strong potential for career development in a reputable company
Cons
- High demands due to project complexity
- Limited information on exact compensation packages
- May require relocation or adjustment to a new country
Who it's for
Senior / Expert • Full-time, on-site
Good fit
- Experienced engineers focused on naval or complex automation
- Professionals passionate about national defense technologies
- Individuals seeking a challenging and rewarding engineering role
Not recommended for
- Entry-level engineers lacking experience in automation
- Those preferring a non-technical, administrative role
- Candidates needing flexible remote work options
Motivation fit
Key skills
About the job
Job summary:
Tasks: Design, develop, and implement advanced automation systems for naval vessels.
Projects: Cutting-edge defence and security programs within the naval sector.
Company: Leading maritime engineering and shipbuilding organization with a strong global presence.
Main requirements: 5+ years of experience in the design and installation of complex automation systems (PLC/SCADA).
Your opportunity:
As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will be working on the newest technologies of the naval division of a world-leading Dutch shipbuilding group. You will have the chance to play a key role in creating the next generation of naval vessels equipped with state-of-the-art automation systems. You will be responsible for developing automation concepts for complex ship systems, ensuring full compliance with defence and industry regulations.
What you will do:
- Develop functional descriptions, specifications, and detailed documentation for ship automation systems.
- Create and maintain technical specifications for automation components and installation processes.
- Write detailed test and validation plans to ensure compliance with class and customer requirements during simulations and physical testing (FAT, HAT, SAT).
- Manage and coordinate vendors and subcontractors, ensuring timely and accurate contributions to the project.
- Review and integrate vendor and subcontractor designs into the overall vessel design.
- Provide conceptual designs and automation input during proposal phases.
- Offer technical and commissioning support during the execution and delivery stages of the project.
Where you will work:
This close client of ours is the leading Dutch developer and builder of marine defense systems. With a strong engineering and yard team, they are delivering world-class complex naval ships to navies around the world. In the current geopolitical climate, the organization is expanding significantly and providing excellent opportunities for professional growth.
- New technologies galore: state-of-the-art naval technology, digital twinning, virtual reality, and more!
- Well-established shipyard with a long-lasting track record, part of a global shipbuilding group
- Excellent market outlook: order book filled way into the 2030s and still more projects expected
- Cooperating with knowledgeable colleagues, learning and sharing insights
What you already have:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Technical Automation, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- 5+ years of experience designing and implementing complex automation systems (PLC/SCADA), preferably in maritime, offshore, or aeronautical industries.
- Strong background in multidisciplinary projects involving multiple suppliers and stakeholders.
- Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) and the V-model approach.
- Ability to work methodically in complex technical environments and deliver to high standards.
- Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal;
- Permanent EU citizenship and passport, due to the military nature of the projects.
Your benefits:
- 40 paid holidays per year for excellent work-life balance
- Covered commuting and interviewing costs
- Business Travel Insurance
- Basic Dutch course, so you will understand the Dutch jokes during the coffee break
- Housing search support and registration provided by Van Storm
