Software Engineer - NOV Pathway Program

NOV; Kristiansand; On-site; NOK 520,000 - 680,000; Full time

Job summary

NOV invites graduates (2024–2026) to join the Pathway Program in Norway. You will rotate across development tracks, mentored by experienced engineers and trained in modern software environments.

During the two six-month rotations you’ll build skills in high-level software and automation, then join a permanent team or continue in the Talent Pool. English is required; Norwegian knowledge is a plus.

Qualifications

• Graduation between 2024 and 2026 in CS/SE/CE/Automation.
• Strong programming fundamentals and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience with at least one language (Python, C#, C++, Java, JavaScript).
• Understanding of software development lifecycle and testing.
• Curiosity, learning agility and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Develop software for industrial automation and drilling technologies.
• Participate in software design, development and testing.
• Learn multiple technologies through structured training.
• Collaborate with engineers on real customer projects.
• Contribute to code reviews and technical discussions.
• Troubleshoot software and system issues with structured methods.
• Support continuous improvement and product development.
• Complete training modules and rotations during the program.
• Build knowledge across product teams through assignments.

Skills

Python

C#

C++

Java

JavaScript

Programming concepts

Software development lifecycle

Analytical thinking

Learning agility

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelors or Masters in Computer Science

Software Engineering

Computer Engineering

Automation/Cybernetics/Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens STEP7

TIA Portal

Git

Version control

Job description

Job Description

About the Role

The NOV Pathway Program is designed for recent graduates (2024-2026) who are passionate about technology and eager to lay the foundation for a long-term engineering career.

Rather than expecting you to know everything from day one, we invest in your development through structured onboarding, technical training, mentoring and practical project work.

Throughout the program you will experience different software environments, work alongside experienced engineers and gradually develop into an independent software engineer.

Depending on your interests, strengths and business needs, you may follow a development path focused on:

• High-level software development (C#, C++, Java, Python)
• Machine control and industrial automation (PLC, Siemens TIA Portal)

During the program you'll expect two six-month rotations, allowing you to broaden your technical knowledge before joining a permanent engineering team or continuing within the Talent Pool organization.

Explore the Technology Behind the Software

Curious about how software engineering connects with real-world industrial technology? At NOV, our engineers develop solutions supporting advanced robotics, automated drilling equipment and machine control systems.

Take a closer look at some of the technologies used across NOV:

• ATOM RTX Robotics - Discover how robotics can automate complex tasks on a drilling rig.
• Multi Machine Control (MMC) and Pipe Handling Automation - Explore how software and control systems coordinate automated drilling equipment.
• Pipe Handling Systems - See the industrial machinery and systems that software engineers help control and improve.

These examples offer a glimpse into the engineering environment and technologies you may encounter during your development at NOV.

Why Join NOV?

• Structured graduate development program
• Formal technical training with certified courses
• Mentoring from experienced software engineers
• Exposure to multiple technologies and products
• Opportunity to shape your own development path
• Permanent employment from day one
• Work with advanced automation, robotics and industrial software used worldwide

Ready to turn your passion for technology into real-world engineering experience? Bring your curiosity, motivation and enthusiasm for innovation, and discover the opportunities ahead.

Responsibilities

• Develop software supporting industrial automation and drilling technologies.
• Participate in software design, development and testing activities.
• Learn multiple software technologies through structured training.
• Collaborate with experienced software engineers on real customer projects.
• Participate in code reviews and technical discussions.
• Troubleshoot software and system issues using structured problem-solving techniques.
• Contribute to continuous improvement and product development.
• Complete technical training and certification modules throughout the program.
• Build knowledge across different product teams through rotational assignments.

Qualifications

Essential Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's or Master's degree (graduated between 2024 and 2026):
• Computer Science
• Software Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Automation
• Cybernetics
• Mechatronics
• or a related discipline

Graduation within this period is a mandatory requirement for the program.

Technical Foundation

• Knowledge of programming principles
• Experience with at least one programming language such as Python, C#, C++, PHP or JavaScript
• Understanding of software development fundamentals
• Strong analytical and logical thinking

Personal Qualities

We're Looking For Graduates Who Demonstrate

• Curiosity
• Learning agility
• Problem-solving mindset
• Strong communication skills
• Collaboration
• Initiative
• Interest in understanding how complex systems work

Preferred Qualifications

• PLC programming exposure (Siemens STEP7 / TIA Portal)
• Database knowledge
• Networking fundamentals
• Cybersecurity awareness
• Git or version control
• Interest in industrial automation or robotics

Language

• English is required.
• Norwegian is an advantage but not mandatory.

Application Information

To help us better understand your background, interests and technical experience, please include the following information in your application:

• CV and Cover Letter: Tell us about your motivation for joining the NOV Pathway Program, your technical interests and what you would like to learn.
• Preferred Location: This position is available in Stavanger and Kristiansand. If you have applied for both locations, please indicate your preferred work location in your application.
• Preferred Development Path: Let us know which area interests you most:
• High-level software development (C#, C++, Java, Python)
• Machine control and industrial automation (PLC, Siemens TIA Portal)
• Year of Graduation: Please indicate your actual or expected year of graduation.
• Academic Records: Attach your academic transcript (grades) and degree certificate, if already available.
• Projects and Portfolio: Share examples of relevant academic, personal or professional projects you have worked on. Where available, include links to your GitHub profile, code repositories or other technical portfolios.

Your preferred location and development path will help us understand your interests. Final placement will also depend on business needs and available opportunities.

Work Authorization & Relocation

Applicants must have the legal right to work in Norway. NOV does not offer visa sponsorship or relocation assistance for this position.

About Us

Every day, the oil and gas industry's best minds put more than 150 years of experience to work to help our customers achieve lasting success.

We Power the Industry that Powers the World

Throughout every region in the world and across every area of drilling and production, our family of companies has provided the technical expertise, advanced equipment, and operational support necessary for success - now and in the future.

Global Family

We are a global family of thousands of individuals, working as one team to create a lasting impact for ourselves, our customers, and the communities where we live and work.

Purposeful Innovation

Through purposeful business innovation, product creation, and service delivery, we are driven to power the industry that powers the world better.

Service Above All

This drives us to anticipate our customers’ needs and work with them to deliver the finest products and services on time and on budget.