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

• Develop detailed mechanical designs using 3D CAD software

• 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.

• 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:

  • Industrial automation

  • Mechanical design

  • Robotics

  • Motion control and drive systems

  • Pneumatics

  • Sensors and control systems

  • Machine safety principles

• Experience with SolidWorks, 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

• Conveyor systems

• End-of-line automation

• Material handling equipment

• Food processing machinery

• Custom-built industrial machinery

• 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.

• 8,33% holiday allowance.

• 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 laptop.

• Commitment for indefinite contract with our client 

• Mentoring and coaching until you go over to the payroll of our client

• Great on and offline events to meet your fellow Globetrotters and learn about the Netherlands, hosted by Ir Olav's Globetrotters.

• Pleasant working atmosphere, where you can be and stay yourself.

Are you just as excited as us about this role? Great! Then you're sure to be a good match! Applying for a job with us is very easy. Simply complete the application form below and one of our recruiters will be in touch!