Automation Development Engineer

APM Terminals
APM Terminals Maasvlakte II is one of the world’s most advanced and highly automated container terminals, strategically located in the Port of Rotterdam. As part of the A.P. Moller-Maersk Group and the global APM Terminals network, we actively contribute to enabling global trade and fostering sustainable economic growth.

What sets APM Terminals Maasvlakte II apart is our culture of innovation, safety and operational excellence. The Lean methodology is deeply embedded in our way of working – from continuous process improvement to cross-functional teamwork at ground level. At APM Terminals Maasvlakte II, you’ll be part of a forward-thinking, data-driven environment built on continuous improvement. Join us and contribute to a terminal that sets the global benchmark.

The role
We are seeking an Automation Development Engineer within the Operational Technology (OT) organization responsible for developing, implementing, and optimizing equipment automation solutions at a fully automated container terminal.

This role focuses on delivering automation capabilities for terminal equipment and control systems, ensuring that automation architecture remains robust, scalable, and aligned with the terminal’s operational requirements. The engineer works on projects ranging from equipment modernization and end-of-life replacements to automation enhancements and integration of entirely new automation solutions.

Working closely with Asset Management, Optimization Leads, System Development Engineers, vendors, and operational stakeholders, the Automation Development Engineer translates operational needs into automation solutions, defines technical specifications, supports contracting activities, and oversees implementation and testing. The role spans a large portion of the system engineering lifecycle, from concept and requirements definition through development, validation, and final delivery to Asset Management and Operations.

The role requires deep expertise in industrial automation systems, equipment control logic, and operational workflows within automated environments.

What We Can Offer

A project-based role at an innovative workplace with a strong focus on technology and operational efficiency

Extensive opportunities for personal development and professional training

A safe, inclusive workplace where collaboration and engagement are key

Career growth paths within a globally operating organization

Key Responsibilities

Design and maintain the automation architecture for terminal equipment and control systems.

Define automation standards, control strategies, and technical specifications for new or upgraded automation solutions.

Ensure automation solutions integrate effectively with the terminal’s broader OT ecosystem and operational systems.

Support the long-term maintainability and scalability of automation systems.

Develop and implement automation solutions for terminal equipment, including PLC logic where required.

Lead the technical execution of automation modernization projects, system upgrades, and new equipment integrations.

Work closely with vendors and internal engineering teams to deliver automation capabilities aligned with operational needs.

Ensure automation implementations meet safety, reliability, and operational requirements.

Collaborate with Flow Owners, operations teams, and engineering teams to identify automation improvement opportunities.

Translate operational requirements into automation specifications and system designs.

Contribute to vendor selection and technical specifications used for contracting automation solutions.

Define testing strategies and acceptance criteria for automation systems and equipment upgrades.

Support and participate in Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), and operational validation.

Ensure delivered automation solutions meet performance, safety, and operational requirements.

Identify opportunities to improve equipment performance, reliability, and automation efficiency.

Analyze equipment behavior, system performance, and operational data to propose automation improvements.

Work with engineering teams and operations to continuously enhance terminal…