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.

At Royal IHC, we are developing the next generation of autonomous maritime solutions for the defence, offshore, dredging and mining sectors. To help drive this transformation, we are looking for an experienced System Architect / Lead Engineer – Autonomous Maritime Systems.

This is a unique opportunity for a systems thinker who thrives at the intersection of technology, engineering and strategy. Someone who can connect software, autonomy, controls and physical systems into a coherent vision that delivers real-world operational value.

The 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

This is not a traditional naval engineering role, nor is it purely software-focused. Instead, it requires someone who understands how complex machinery, intelligent software and operational requirements come together to create successful autonomous systems.

What You Will Do

• Define the Future Architecture

You will lead the development of high-level system architectures and technology roadmaps for autonomous maritime solutions. By translating strategic business opportunities into practical technical concepts, you will help guide investments and development priorities for years to come.

• Bridge Engineering Disciplines

You will connect software, control systems, electrical engineering, mechanical systems and operational technology into integrated solutions. Your ability to see the bigger picture while understanding technical detail will be critical in making complex systems work together.

• Drive Innovation Through Partnerships

Working with technology companies, suppliers, research institutes and customers, you will help evaluate emerging technologies and determine where we should build, buy or partner. You will play a key role in technical due diligence, strategic collaborations and product development initiatives.

• Influence Business Strategy

Beyond engineering, you will contribute to product portfolio development, business cases and long-term autonomy strategy. You understand how technical decisions translate into commercial value, competitive advantage and operational impact.

Who We Are Looking For

You are a systems thinker who is comfortable dealing with ambiguity and complexity. You enjoy turning challenging problems into structured plans and executable roadmaps.

You bring:

• A strong systems engineering mindset
• Experience with complex physical systems and machinery
• Experience working with software-intensive systems
• Knowledge of multiple disciplines such as:
  • Robotics and autonomy
  • Control systems
  • Artificial Intelligence and data systems
  • Sensor fusion and perception
  • Mission management systems
  • Remote operations
• The ability to work effectively across engineering disciplines
• Strong communication skills with both technical and executive stakeholders
• A pragmatic approach combined with deep technical curiosity

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 have the opportunity to:

• Shape the future autonomy strategy of a global maritime technology leader
• Work on technologies that will redefine maritime operations
• Build and develop a new autonomous systems capability
• Influence major technology and investment decisions
• Collaborate with leading industry partners, customers and research organisations
• Enjoy significant ownership, visibility and impact

Royal IHC offers you:  

• A salary between €5440 and €6642 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.