Lead Industrial Automation Engineer

Are you an experienced engineer who enjoys designing innovative machinery and leading technical teams? Do you have a passion for automation, robotics and developing custom production solutions?

Our client is a leading Dutch engineering company specialising in the design and manufacture of automated production systems, robotics and end-of-line solutions for customers across a variety of industries. They are looking for an experienced  Lead Engineer  to join their growing engineering team in the Netherlands.

This is an exciting opportunity to work on technically challenging projects from concept through to completion while leading multidisciplinary engineering teams.

About the Role

As Lead Engineer, you will be responsible for the technical design and execution of custom-built machinery, robotic systems and automated production lines. You will play a key role in transforming customer requirements into practical engineering solutions while providing technical leadership throughout each project.

Working closely with Project Managers, customers, suppliers and the workshop team, you will ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget and to the highest engineering standards.

Your Responsibilities

Lead the engineering design of custom machines and automated production systems

Design production layouts and complete machine concepts

Design conveyors, robotic cells, grippers and material handling systems

Perform engineering calculations including load calculations, drive sizing and timing diagrams

Select motors, gearboxes, pneumatic components, sensors and robotic equipment

Solve complex technical engineering challenges

Review and approve engineering drawings and designs

Prepare technical documentation and bills of materials

Assist with project costing and engineering estimates during the quotation phase

Monitor engineering hours and technical project budgets

Work closely with suppliers and assist with technical procurement

Visit customer sites for technical discussions, site measurements and project reviews

Support the workshop during manufacturing and assembly

Lead and mentor engineers assigned to your projects

Candidates from OEM machine builders, automation integrators and special-purpose machinery manufacturers will be particularly well suited to this role.

Why This Opportunity?

You'll join an innovative engineering company with over 30 years of experience delivering automation solutions to customers around the world. With approximately 200 employees across multiple locations in the Netherlands, they offer a collaborative environment where engineers are encouraged to innovate, solve complex technical challenges and continuously develop their skills.

Every project is unique, giving you exposure to a wide variety of industries, technologies and engineering challenges.

Our client is a leading Dutch engineering and automation company specialising in the design, manufacture and integration of innovative production systems for customers worldwide.

Driven by a passion for solving complex engineering challenges, they believe that if a solution doesn't already exist, they'll create one. Their multidisciplinary expertise spans robotics, food processing systems, convenience production solutions and end-of-line automation, enabling them to deliver everything from standalone machines to fully integrated production lines.

Known for their innovative approach, technical excellence and collaborative culture, they work closely with customers to develop reliable, efficient automation solutions that improve productivity and deliver long-term value.

Function criteria
Bachelor's Degree or equivalent qualification in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline

Approximately 10 years' experience in machine building, industrial automation or special-purpose machinery

Minimum 3 years' experience leading engineering teams or projects

Strong knowledge of:

Robotics

Motion control and drive systems

Sensors and control systems

Machine safety principles

Experience with Solid Works, Creo or similar 3D CAD software

AutoCAD experience will be advantageous

Experience working with ERP systems and Microsoft Office

Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities

Strong planning, organisational and leadership skills

Comfortable working directly with customers and multidisciplinary teams

Ideal Background

We are particularly interested in engineers who have experience designing:

Automated production lines

Robotic systems

Packaging machinery

Food processing machinery

Job offer
Relocation package.

Step-by-step assistance with your relocation processes and covered virtual sessions with our relocation experts.

Visa application and 30% tax ruling application done by Ir Olav’s Globetrotters on your behalf.

Great South African community waiting for you in the Netherlands.

Market related salary.

Dutch Government authorized pension plan activated once you arrive in the Netherlands.

One on one Dutch lessons up until company requirement where your partner can join lessons for free.

Company…