Data Science, AI & Autonomous Maritime Systems Engineer
Role details
Job location
Tech stack
Job description
Royal IHC is looking to strengthen its Technology and Innovation department with a Data Science, AI & Autonomous Maritime Systems Engineer. In this role, you will work at IHC Technology, the R&D and innovation centre of Royal IHC, based in Kinderdijk, the Netherlands.
At IHC, we design and build high-tech maritime equipment and vessels used worldwide in offshore energy, defence, mining and dredging. In this position, you will help shape the next generation of intelligent, autonomous and data-driven maritime systems.
Your focus will be on applying data science, artificial intelligence, computer vision and autonomy concepts to real-world maritime challenges - from perception and decision support to system integration and validation in operational environments. You will work closely with other data scientists, AI engineers and system specialists as part of a multidisciplinary R&D team.
What you will work on
As a Data Science, AI & Autonomous Systems Engineer, you will contribute to R&D projects such as:
- Developing and applying AI, machine learning and data-driven methods for maritime applications.
- Computer vision and sensor data processing (e.g. cameras, lidar, radar, drones and autonomous platforms).
- Supporting developments in autonomous perception, navigation and decision support.
- Data analysis, algorithm development and rapid prototyping, primarily in Python.
- Integrating AI and autonomy concepts into complex maritime systems and vessels.
- Validating concepts through simulations, laboratory testing and operational trials.
- Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams across Engineering, Product Market Groups and Operations.
- Translating innovative ideas into robust, scalable solutions for full-scale maritime systems.
You will not be confined to a single technology stack or product. Instead, you will work in an exploratory R&D environment, where experimentation, learning and real impact go hand in hand.
Why this role is different
- You work on full-scale, physical maritime systems-not only digital models-where AI solutions must perform under real operational constraints.
- You combine AI, software and data science with ships, machines, sensors and real-world operations, where reliability and safety matter.
- You see your work evolve from concept to prototype, testing and operational application, with clear ownership and accountability.
- You operate across laboratory, simulation and operational environments, gaining exposure to the full engineering and validation cycle.
- You are actively challenged on your ideas and expected to challenge others-good ideas are heard, tested and improved through engineering judgement.
- You receive guidance and coaching from experienced engineers, while being trusted to take responsibility and deliver results.
- You help shape how AI and autonomy are applied responsibly and pragmatically in the maritime domain-focused on value creation, safety and business impact.
Requirements
- A master's degree in a technical field such as Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Computer Science, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering (or a related discipline).
- Strong interest in AI, data science, computer vision and/or autonomous systems.
- Experience with Python and data-driven development.
- Curiosity about how algorithms interact with physical systems.
- Good communication skills in English (Dutch is a plus).
Please note that only candidates with valid EU work visa will be considered as viable candidates.
Benefits & conditions
- A salary between €4000,- and €5500,- gross per month, plus 8% holiday allowance.
- Plenty of time off: 40 vacation days for a full-time position, with the option to buy or sell additional leave.
- A profit-sharing scheme that lets you share in Royal IHC's success.
- Flexible working: A home office allowance of €2.45 per day + a one-time payment of €750 to set up your workspace.
- Travel allowance of €0.21 per kilometer for the days you commute to the office.
- A solid pension plan through PME.
- Room to grow: Numerous internal career opportunities and a training budget + access to our IHC Academy to support your development.
- Health and energy: Unlimited access to our in-house gym (in exchange for the sustainable employability day).
- Royal IHC takes care of things you'd rather not worry about, but that are still important-such as disability insurance, partner pension, and the option to have additional healthcare costs reimbursed through our Social Fund.
