As an Automation Engineer at Huisman, you will be responsible for developing solutions that enable our products such as cranes and handling systems to perform tasks autonomously or semi-autonomously. You will work closely with various departments, including Research & Development, Sales, Control Systems, and Dynamic Simulations, to successfully develop, deploy, and operate these innovations.

You will be part of a multidisciplinary team pushing the boundaries of robotics in the heavy lifting and handling industry and the maritime sector. Your work will contribute directly to the next generation of intelligent offshore equipment.

As an Automation Engineer, you will design and implement advanced robotic systems for offshore and industrial environments. You will develop intelligent motion control, integrate sensor frameworks, and ensure reliable performance under challenging conditions like wind, waves, and heavy loads. Your role bridges mechanical design, control software, and real-world execution to deliver safe, scalable, and mission-critical automation solutions.

Your responsibilities are:

• Design robotic systems for autonomous crane operations;
• Develop algorithms for motion planning and obstacle avoidance;
• Integrate sensors (e.g., LIDAR, cameras, IMUs) for perception and localisation;
• Collaborate with the control and automation teams on system integration;
• Support testing, simulation, and deployment in real-world environments;
• Contribute to product development, including HMI design, system integration, risk assessment, and commissioning.

You are:

• A robotics enthusiast with a passion for automation and intelligent systems;
• A hands-on engineer who thrives in multidisciplinary teams;
• A structured thinker who can translate complex challenges into robust solutions;
• Someone who is motivated by developing practical solutions with tangible, real-world impact
• Familiar with simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink;
• Understanding of R&D across technology readiness levels and phased deployment;
• Skilled in perception and control algorithms, kinematics, dynamics, and sensor fusion;
• Proficient in ROS, C++, Python, and realtime control systems;

You have:

• A Master’s degree in robotics, mechatronics, or a related engineering field;
• A minimum of 4 years of experience in robotics, preferably in the offshore/maritime sector or with heavy steel structures;
• An affinity with sensors (e.g., cameras, LIDAR, RADAR) and data processing;
• Experience bringing innovations to market, including system integration and commissioning;
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, both internally and with clients.

• An EU passport/valid work permit for the Netherlands;
  A good command of the English language (and preferably Dutch), both spoken and written.

• An excellent benefits package tailored to your experience and education level;
• An international work environment;
• Various growth and development opportunities;
• Open, informal, no-nonsense culture with short communication lines.

We design and produce in-house and deliver our turn-key products to clients worldwide. Our clients choose us for our entrepreneurial spirit, skills, reliability, and innovative solutions. Examples? The largest Tub Mounted Cranes in the world (2 x 10,000mt), built for Heerema. So, if you join Huisman, make sure you are equipped for impact. In other words, surprise us, our clients and… yourself!

System engineering and risk management are the core of our equipment and are used as basis of design and project management.

Do you want to be part of a global team of innovators? Do you redefine boundaries instead of accepting them? Are you ready to make a real impact with reliable, high-tech solutions? Then we might be looking for you! Find out more about the Automation Engineer vacancy.

We are Huisman. We develop step changing technical solutions and translate these into the design and construction of the largest onshore and offshore installations. For decades, we have been working all over the world for offshore wind, geothermal energy, oil & gas, leisure, civil industries and port logistics.

With our passionate workforce and worldwide production, service & sales facilities we are equipped for impact in these times of energy transition.

Apply online for the position of Automation Engineer by using the application form at the bottom of this page. We are curious to see what kind of impact you will make.

Please contact us via our contact form for more information or sign up for our job alert to receive details of new opportunities in your inbox. 

As an Automation Engineer, you will design and implement advanced robotic systems for offshore and industrial environments. You will develop intelligent motion control, integrate sensor frameworks, and ensure reliable performance under challenging conditions like wind, waves, and heavy loads. Your role bridges mechanical design, control software, and real-world execution to deliver safe, scalable, and mission-critical automation solutions.