Data Science, AI & Autonomous Maritime Systems Engineer

Location: Kinderdijk

Time Type: Full time

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

Your profile

We are deliberately looking for a broad and diverse talent pool. You do not need to tick every box.

You have:

• 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. 

* These requirements give a direction to the profile we are looking. At Royal IHC, we warmly welcome anyone to join us, regardless of their background, disabilities or challenges. For example: research shows that male candidates apply if there is a 60% match and women only when there is a 100% match. Do you not meet all the requirements but do you think that this is the position for you? Then we would like to invite you to apply. 

Royal IHC offers you:  

In 2050 (when we exist over 400 years) Royal IHC will be a fully sustainable company with a net-zero portfolio. 

Our Technology department

IHC Technology is one of the enabling organizations for IHC’s Core and Potential Core to achieve its strategy “towards a sustainable future”. The unit consists of around 20 employees with different backgrounds, mostly at PhD or MSc/BSc level. Besides DAS, a R&D group. IP, Innovation Management Support and Subsidy Support. IHC Technology also operates a well-equipped test facility.