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:

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.

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.

Royal IHC

Creating the maritime future

Anchored in a rich Dutch maritime history, Royal IHC is a leading supplier of maritime technology and expert craftsmanship.

With the right people and skills on board, and driven by innovation, we provide a competitive edge to our worldwide customers in the dredging, offshore, mining and defence industries. However, Royal IHC is much more than equipment, vessels and services. We deliver reliable, integrated solutions that improve operational efficiency and allow for a more sustainable performance.

All over the world, our people are deeply committed to technological innovation, supported by our long-standing experience in our core markets. Our experts work in close collaboration with multiple stakeholders to meet the specific needs of each customer.

With our continuous commitment to technological innovation, we seek to always meet the specific requirements of each individual client. IHC annually spends approximately 3% of its revenue on innovation, which places us in the top 15 Dutch companies in terms of R&D. We have branches in many different countries, giving us a truly international perspective.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Our business culture has a strong character and is based on collaboration, openness and respect. Perseverance is also a quality that runs through the veins of our organisation. At IHC we have a total commitment to improvement and innovation. Coming to work for us does not mean you have reached your destination. At IHC you will continue to grow and learn, and your expertise will continue onwards and upwards. That is not just a promise from us, but also a commitment we ask of you. Those who demonstrate independence and a strong feeling of responsibility are given a great deal of freedom, but that doesn’t mean you will be left to fend for yourself. Where needed, you can count on us for coaching and personal supervision.

MAXIMUM USE OF TALENT

IHC has a wealth of in-house talent. And we want to make the maximum use of it. That is why we have created development programmes. There are programmes for every level. If you have completed your preparatory secondary vocational education (VMBO) you can start at our in-house Technical Training Centre. We also have plenty of development opportunities for employees with senior secondary vocational education (MBO), higher vocational education (HBO) or a degree from a university (WO).

They can choose from the wide range of programmes, courses and other training opportunities. In addition to the development programmes, there is Young IHC. This programme of activities is especially for our young graduates to help them find their feet in our company. It makes it easy for them to get to know their colleagues in the various business units and creates a strong personal network.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS

Are you currently a student or have you just graduated? There are several ways for you to start a new career at IHC. We recognise the value of a strong link between industry and education, which is why ambitious students are always welcome at IHC for a traineeship or to do their graduation research. There are various options available, the choice is up to you!

“Let us build a career for you!”