Data Science, AI & Autonomous Maritime Systems Engineer

Overview

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.

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.

• 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

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.

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…