Software Engineer

HOUDIJK HOLLAND B.V; Vlaardingen; On-site; EUR 39,060 - 56,916; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

27 vacation days

13 additional leave days

Monthly commuting allowance

Pension plan contributions

Training opportunities

Flexible working hours

Job summary

HOUDIJK HOLLAND B.V is hiring a Software Engineer based in Vlaardingen. You will design, program, and commission control software for infeed and sorting machines. Engage throughout project lifecycle to ensure high standards and operational efficiency.

Responsibilities include developing high-speed software, conducting system analyses, and supporting international commissioning. The role requires strong skills in PLC programming and a degree in relevant fields. You will enjoy attractive benefits including a competitive salary, vacation days, and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

• Strong practical approach to commissioning machines.
• Willingness to learn and deepen knowledge in software development.
• Ability to work both independently and in teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop control software for machines and sorting systems.
• Conduct system analyses for different solution options.
• Test and support commissioning of control software.

Skills

PLC/IPC programming

Servo systems

Motion control

Communication skills in Dutch

Communication skills in English

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechatronics, Industrial Automation, Control Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or similar

Tools

Rockwell PLC software

Job description

About the role

As a Software Engineer at Royal Houdijk in Vlaardingen, you’ll design, program and commission the control software for Houdijk’s infeed and sorting machines. You’ll quite literally bring our machines to life. From the first functional concept through to final acceptance at the (international) customer site, you remain closely involved, meaning travel is an important part of this role.

About the job

Ready for a hands‑on career in practical software engineering? In this role, you’ll be involved throughout the full project lifecycle, from defining machine functionality to final delivery at the customer. Your design choices and technical expertise ensure our machines run smoothly and meet the highest standards. In addition to the projects you own from a software perspective, Houdijk offers the opportunity to specialize further in areas such as Vision, Robotics, Data or Simulation. We enjoy tackling challenging software questions and actively apply innovation. Our customers regularly request complex solutions and as a specialist, you can make a real impact.

Your key responsibilities

• Developing control software for high‑speed, high‑precision transport and sorting using servo motors (one example tool we use is Rockwell PLC software).
• Performing system analyses to explore and evaluate different solution options.
• Testing control software on built systems (I/O) and, when needed, supporting on‑site commissioning, including preparing the required documentation.
• Further developing and improving software by translating customer and internal requirements into robust solutions within the software.
• International travel (minimum 30% annually): commission our machines worldwide—gaining valuable international experience and discovering new cultures.

What we offer

A salary between €3,500 and €5,100 per month (based on 40 hours). Further salary growth is possible through specialization or career advancement. 27 vacation days and 13 additional leave days (ADV) in accordance with the Metalektro collective labour agreement. The option to “sell” unused ADV days each year. A fixed monthly commuting allowance of €0.23 per kilometre. A solid pension plan with PME, with 50% of the contributions covered by Royal Houdijk. Attractive employee benefits such as financial support for uncovered healthcare costs, a gym membership, or a contribution towards a new bicycle for commuting. A healthy work‑life balance, with flexibility to organise your working hours. Internal and external training opportunities to support your personal development and to maintain your product and system knowledge. A challenging position in an innovative, specialised, and international company.

What you bring

With your social and collaborative mindset, you enjoy working in a team while also being comfortable working independently. You have a practical approach, especially when it comes to commissioning machines.

Key qualifications

• A completed Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (HBO/WO) in Mechatronics, Industrial Automation, Control Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or similar.
• We prefer working experience but we are open to developing junior starters.
• Motivation to learn and deepen your knowledge of PLC/IPC programming, servo systems and motion control.
• Affinity with machinery and industrial systems.
• Strong communication and writing skills in Dutch and English.
• Willingness to travel internationally at least 30% per year.
• Providing a Certificate of Conduct (VOG) may be part of the application process.