Automation Engineer

Join a leading organization in the naval and defence sector, where professionals worldwide work together to deliver advanced vessels and systems. By applying the most innovative technological developments in practice, we continue to push the boundaries of modern shipbuilding and automation. You can be part of this dynamic team!

As an Automation Engineer, you will contribute to the development of a major European naval project involving advanced frigates for anti‑submarine warfare. You will design and implement automation solutions for complex onboard systems, enabling safe and efficient control and monitoring across the platform.

Working in a multidisciplinary team and in close collaboration with international partners, you will ensure that all automation designs meet strict cybersecurity, safety and military requirements – from concept to final commissioning.

In this role, your key responsibilities include:

• Developing functional descriptions and automation architecture for various shipboard systems within the frigate project.
• Designing and documenting control logic and interfaces for PLC/SCADA‑based automation, in line with defence‑grade standards and cybersecurity protocols.
• Preparing and maintaining technical specifications for automation hardware and software, ensuring integration with electrical and mission systems.
• Collaborating with internal stakeholders, system suppliers and international partners to align on technical solutions and interface definitions.
• Supporting the development of test plans and simulation environments to validate functionality across project stages (FAT, HAT, SAT).
• Reviewing vendor documentation, assessing compliance and integrating their deliverables into the ship’s automation architecture.
• Contributing to the continuous development of automation standards and engineering practices within the programme.

We are looking for candidates with the following qualifications:

• At least 2 years of experience in the design and implementation of complex automation systems (PLC/SCADA), preferably in the maritime or defence sector.
• Experience with systems engineering and multidisciplinary projects involving multiple stakeholders and subcontractors.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity and safety standards relevant to military or mission‑critical systems is a strong asset.
• Experience working in a model‑based systems engineering (MBSE) environment, preferably using the V‑model.
• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Technical Automation, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or a related field.
• Excellent references, as a security screening is part of the selection process.
• Permanent EU citizenship and passport are required due to the military nature of the project. Candidates with EU (work) visa or dual EU/non‑EU nationalities are not eligible.

We highly value our employees and support their professional and personal development. The employment package includes:

• A salary between €3,900 and €6,000 depending on experience and knowledge
• 8% holiday pay.
• 27 holidays and 13 ADV days.
• Travel allowance of €0.23 per kilometre.
• Flexibility to work from home up to two days a week.

Apply today as an Automation Engineer and put your experience into practice! If you have any questions or require more information, please call Mark van Luffelen on +31 6 10893334 or send an email to m.vanluffelen@forexx.nl