System Architect/Lead Engineer Autonomous Maritime Systems

IHC Merwede Holding B.V.; Kinderdijk; On-site; EUR 60,710 - 74,124; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

40 vacation days

Profit-sharing scheme

Pension plan

Job summary

IHC Merwede Holding B.V. is seeking a System Architect / Lead Engineer to define the architecture and development strategy for future autonomous maritime platforms. This pivotal role involves collaboration with executive leadership, engineering teams, and technology partners to drive innovation in remote operations and AI-driven systems.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong systems engineering mindset and experience with complex systems, robotics, and control systems.

The position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a gross salary between €5,440 and €6,642 monthly plus holiday allowance and flexible working options.

Qualifications

• Strong systems engineering mindset and experience with complex physical systems.
• Experience with software-intensive systems and knowledge of robotics and control systems.
• Ability to turn challenging problems into structured plans.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of high-level system architectures and technology roadmaps.
• Connect software, control systems, electrical and mechanical systems into integrated solutions.
• Evaluate emerging technologies for strategic collaborations.

Skills

Complex systems engineering

Robotics knowledge

AI and data-driven systems

Communication with stakeholders

Job description

Shape the Future of Autonomous Maritime Operations

The maritime industry is entering a new era. Autonomous vessels, remote operations, AI‑driven decision-making and intelligent mission systems are transforming the way complex operations are performed at sea.

Opportunity

As System Architect / Lead Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in defining the architecture, technology roadmap and development strategy for future autonomous and semi‑autonomous maritime platforms. You will work directly with executive leadership, engineering teams, customers and technology partners to shape solutions that combine autonomous vessels, remotely operated systems, mission management platforms, AI and data‑driven operational systems, sensor integration and perception technologies, deployment, support and operational infrastructure.

What You Will Do

• Define the Future Architecture – lead the development of high‑level system architectures and technology roadmaps.
• Bridge Engineering Disciplines – connect software, control systems, electrical engineering, mechanical systems and operational technology into integrated solutions.
• Drive Innovation Through Partnerships – evaluate emerging technologies, determine building, buying or partnering decisions, contribute to technical due diligence and strategic collaborations.
• Influence Business Strategy – contribute to product portfolio development, business cases and long‑term autonomy strategy, translating technical decisions into commercial value.

Who We Are Looking For

You are a systems thinker who is comfortable dealing with ambiguity and complexity, enjoys turning challenging problems into structured plans and executable roadmaps, and can work effectively across engineering disciplines. You possess:

• Strong systems engineering mindset and experience with complex physical systems and machinery.
• Experience working with software‑intensive systems and knowledge of robotics, autonomy, control systems, AI and data systems, sensor fusion and perception, mission management systems and remote operations.
• Pragmatic approach combined with deep technical curiosity and strong communication skills with technical and executive stakeholders.

Ideally you have experience in one or more of the following areas: autonomous maritime systems, robotics, defence systems, offshore systems, heavy equipment and industrial machinery, autonomous vehicles, mission systems, remote operations and control centres.

Why This Role Is Different

This position offers a rare combination of technical leadership and strategic influence. You will shape the future autonomy strategy of a global maritime technology leader, work on technologies that will redefine maritime operations, build a new autonomous systems capability and influence major technology and investment decisions.

Benefits

• Salary between €5,440 and €6,642 gross per month, plus 8% holiday allowance.
• 40 vacation days for a full‑time position, with the option to buy or sell additional leave.
• Profit‑sharing scheme.
• Flexible working – home office allowance of €2.45 per day and a one‑time payment of €750 to set up your workspace.
• Travel allowance of €0.21 per kilometer for commuting to the office.
• Solid pension plan through PME.
• Training budget and access to IHC Academy for professional development.
• Unlimited access to in‑house gym (exchangeable for a sustainable employability day).
• Disability insurance, partner pension and additional healthcare costs reimbursed through the Social Fund.