System design engineer

Engineer the future of autonomous systems: join our team as a system design engineer with real-world impact at sea.

Who will your colleagues be?

You will join the Autonomy & Decision Support (ADS) team within the Performance at Sea department. This department consists of 39 enthusiastic colleagues dedicated to make the operation of ships and offshore structures safer, smarter, and cleaner. The ADS team contributes to this by developing, implementing and testing advanced technologies that enable autonomous maritime operations and onboard decision support, working closely with defense and industry partners. In the field of Autonomous Surface Vessels (USVs) development MARIN serves as both concept design integrator and testbed facilitator. Together with sector partners we test new solutions on their USVs. Once validated our partners take these concepts forward to higher levels of technical readiness.

What are you going to do?

As a system design engineer you contribute to the research and development of USVs. Your responsibilities include designing, integrating and deploying hardware, electronic and software systems that enable USVs to operate remotely and autonomously using the Robot Operating System (ROS) framework. This system development is closely linked to MARIN’s broader goal of enhancing generic testing capabilities at sea. By coupling sensor technology to a modular and flexible measurement system, you help ensure reliable data collection and seamless interaction between ship and shore systems - making your work on USV autonomy a direct enabler of smarter, more effective maritime testing.

You will work closely with engineers, researchers and project managers from the early design and development phase to turn research concepts into practical solutions. Your role involves development, system integration, simulation based testing and supporting on-site deployment and testing at sea. You are expected to take initiative in troubleshooting issues, optimizing system performance, and adapting technologies to real-world maritime conditions - while working independently, hands-on, and with a clear sense of system-level oversight.

What do we offer?

• A stimulating environment which will allow you to develop while maintaining the freedom to choose your own path.
• An attractive salary and benefits package, including our annual profit sharing and excellent pension scheme.
• Lifecycle allowance of 5.55% of your gross monthly salary.
• 29 vacation days (fulltime) + 5 scheduled days between Christmas and New Year.
• Plenty of opportunities for your professional development and career advancement.
• Development through training courses, further education and coaching.
• Flexibility in working hours and a hybrid working arrangement, to support your work-life balance.

Who are we looking for?

We are seeking a skilled engineer in robotics, mechatronics, electrical engineering or related fields. You have practical experience developing autonomous systems using ROS (Robot Operating System), and strong programming skills in C++ and Python. You approach technical challenges with creativity and precision.

Your expertise includes real-time systems, control theory and embedded programming, working in Linux environments, and sensor integration such as LiDAR, GPS, IMU, cameras, etc. You have affinity with marine systems, autonomous vehicles, mobile robotics, measurement systems and/or sensor technology. We welcome candidates who are motivated to learn, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and contribute to developing (autonomous) maritime technologies with real-world impact.

Key Qualifications

• Knowledge of Robot Operating System (ROS), real-time systems, control theory, embedded programming, and Linux environments.
• Experience with sensor integration, including LiDAR, GPS, IMU, and cameras.
• Willingness to participate in on-water testing and trials.
• A good command of English is essential and you are willing to learn Dutch if it is not your native language.

Who are we?

MARIN is a globally recognised institute in maritime research, based in Wageningen, the Netherlands. Our mission is ‘Better Ships, Blue Oceans’: we stand for clean, smart and safe shipping and sustainable use of the sea. We do this as an independent knowledge partner for the maritime sector, governments and society. We work with around 450 specialists in various fields who are proud of an open and collaborative culture in which you can explore your ideas and take initiative.

Interested?

If you want to know more about the position, contact Willemijn Pauw, teamleader ADS, w.pauw@marin.nl.