Automation Engineer

Job Description

Automation/Instrumentation Engineer – Rotterdam, Netherlands

Full-Time / Permanent Position

Language Requirement: Dutch Speaking

An exciting opportunity is available for an experienced Automation/Instrumentation Engineer to join a growing team of industry experts within the Process Industries sector. Based in a newly established and centrally located office in Rotterdam, this full-time role offers the chance to contribute to both national and international projects, ranging from small-scale assignments to large, complex engineering endeavours.

In this pivotal role, you will act as the lead (and initially sole) Automation/Instrumentation Engineer, collaborating with a passionate, entrepreneurial team. You'll play a key part in building and shaping the automation and instrumentation function within the division. This role reports directly to the Vice President of the Process Industries division in the Netherlands.

You’ll be instrumental in laying the foundation for automation and instrumentation engineering within the organisation and serve as the primary expert and point of contact for internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

• Establish and lead the automation/instrumentation engineering capability within the process industries division.
• Serve as the main internal and external point of contact for all automation/instrumentation-related matters.
• Contribute across the full project lifecycle, from feasibility studies and detailed design to site supervision, installation, commissioning, and startup.
• Develop and review technical documents such as specifications for equipment, supplies, and installations.
• Ensure adherence to quality, time, and budget constraints throughout project execution.
• Liaise directly with clients and coordinate with internal planning and engineering teams.
• Oversee the review of supplier documentation, perform factory acceptance testing, and support project implementation phases.

This role offers room for professional development in engineering, consultancy, team leadership, and project management.

To succeed in this role, you should have:

• A bachelor's or master’s degree in Automation Engineering or a related discipline.
• Fluency in Dutch (spoken and written) and strong command of English. Knowledge of an additional language is a plus.
• Relevant experience in industrial automation, ideally within the chemical or refinery sectors.
• Experience in leading and managing project teams, including remote collaboration.

Personal Attributes:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and drive progress with minimal supervision.
• Adaptability to work in dynamic, fast-paced project environments.
• Proactive, problem-solving mindset and team-oriented attitude.
• Willingness to travel across the Netherlands and internationally as required.

What’s Offered:

• A varied, challenging role with flexibility to support a healthy work-life balance, including hybrid working options.
• Competitive salary with a performance-based bonus.
• 25 vacation days plus 5 additional leave days, with the option to purchase up to 5 more per year.
• First-class NS Business Card for travel.
• Structured career development plans supported by a generous annual training budget.
• Opportunities to work with global teams and participate in impactful, sustainable projects.