Project manager autonomous systems

Realize real-world maritime solutions. Become a project manager/technical lead autonomous systems. Join our team!

Who will be your colleagues?

You will be part of 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 defence 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 project manager, you will be the link between cutting-edge research and practical maritime solutions. Your primary responsibility is to ensure that innovative ideas move beyond theory and transform into fully operational systems in real maritime environments. You will manage and actively participate in projects that combine software development, hardware integration, integration in new operational concepts, and testing at sea. Your involvement begins in the design and development phase, connecting required expertise from within MARIN and beyond. Collaborating closely with clients and research partners, you help define project goals and deliver meaningful results. In this role you will lead multidisciplinary teams, coordinate the integration of different components, and ensure smooth execution during sea trials. At the same time, you will stay hands-on with research activities, tackling technical challenges and explore new approaches. You will also have opportunities to travel to clients, attend conferences, and join testing campaigns at sea, in the Netherlands and abroad.

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 professional who thrives at the intersection of applied research and practical real-world application bringing creativity and innovation to complex problem solving. The role focuses on developing and implementing autonomous maritime systems and onboard decision-support technologies. You hold an MSc or PhD in a relevant field such as naval architecture, mechanical engineering, robotics, or a related discipline. You have experience with coordinating multidisciplinary projects involving software, hardware, and real-world testing. You are motivated to understand how systems work and how to improve them. We welcome candidates who are eager to learn, collaborate across disciplines, and contribute to applied research with tangible impact.

Key Qualifications

• Experience with autonomous systems and/or maritime technologies.
• Creativity and innovative problem-solving skills.
• Ability to translate research outcomes into practical, cost-effective client solutions.
• Strong communication skills, including presenting, reporting, and engaging with stakeholders including experts and end-users.
• Proficiency in English; willingness to learn Dutch if not already fluent.

We value diverse perspectives and encourage applicants from all backgrounds. If you meet most of the criteria and are excited about the role, we invite you to apply - even if you don’t tick every box.

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, teamlead ADS, w.pauw@marin.nl.