Automation Development Engineer

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.

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.

At APMT Terminals, we foster a dynamic learning and training culture that empowers our employees to excel. Our commitment to improvement is driven by Lean principles, ensuring that every team member has the
opportunity to develop their skills and advance their careers. Experience a diverse, multinational workplace where your operational insights directly influence how we work.

• 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

At MVII, we invest in your growth – because your progress is our future.

• 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 automation capabilities.

• Ensure successful delivery of automation projects to Asset Management and Operations.

• Support operational readiness and ensure proper documentation, knowledge transfer, and system handover.

• Ensure delivered solutions are stable, maintainable, and aligned with terminal engineering standards.

We are looking for someone who brings a strong mindset of continuous improvement. Someone who is naturally curious, committed to solving problems at the root, and driven to make things better every day

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field.

• 7–10+ years of experience in industrial automation,
  equipment control systems, or automation engineering.

• Experience designing and implementing automation
  solutions for complex industrial systems.

• Experience with PLC programming and industrial control systems.

• Strong understanding of automation architecture, equipment control logic, and system integration.

• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.

• Experience in automated container terminals, logistics
  automation, or large-scale industrial automation environments.

• Familiarity with equipment control systems, industrial communication protocols, and automation platforms.

• Experience working with automation vendors and equipment manufacturers.

• Knowledge of safety-critical automation systems and
  high-availability industrial environments.

With your dedication and mindset, you help us become better every single day.