Technical Lead USV Automation

Location: Nootdorp, Netherlands; hybrid work.

Company

hirify.global develops automation platforms and systems for uncrewed surface vessels.

What you will do

• Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary engineering team developing PLC-based control systems for multiple USV classes.
• Guide development of autopilot, propulsion control, and joystick control modules.
• Align technical decisions with product goals and roadmap priorities in collaboration with the Product Owner and Project Manager.
• Coordinate with external suppliers, partners, and geographically distributed teams to integrate software components and ensure reliable USV functionality.
• Drive improvements in development processes, tools, and system architecture, including sprint planning, code reviews, and technical decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with safety, cybersecurity, and marine standards.

Requirements

• Degree in Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field, plus 5+ years of experience in industrial automation, embedded systems, or marine control systems.
• Strong hands-on experience with PLC programming, including CODESYS, e!COCKPIT, and IEC 61131-3.
• Proven leadership experience in a technical or team lead role.
• Familiarity with NMEA, CAN, Modbus, and MQTT communication protocols.
• Experience with agile development methodologies such as Scrum or SAFe.
• Excellent communication and coordination skills, hands-on experience with testing, commissioning, or integration, and a proactive mindset with ownership and decision-making ability.

Culture & Benefits

• Diverse and inclusive working environment.
• Flexible working hours and the possibility to work from home in alignment with the manager and corporate policies.
• 29 holidays per year for full-time employees, including 4 appointed by hirify.global management, with the option to purchase 12 additional days.
• Career and training opportunities, coaching through the Employee Assistance Program, and access to a corporate fitness plan.
• Commuting allowance, modern pension scheme, collective health insurance, and parking facilities.

Hiring process

• Automated confirmation after submitting the application.
• First interview within a couple of days when there is a match, followed by a message if no interview is offered.
• Second interview after a successful first round, followed by an offer if both parties remain positive.