Fitting technology into a yacht where every centimeter counts: that’s the puzzle you tackle every day as a Systems Engineer at Vitters Shipyard. No mass production, no two yachts are alike—every project starts with a blank slate and the question: how do we incorporate the latest technology here without compromising on comfort or design?
Your Role as a Systems Engineer
As a Systems Engineer at Vitters Shipyard, you don’t work on repetitive tasks, but on a single, unique sailing yacht: from the initial design through to delivery—working for one to two years with the same team, all based in the same office. This means you’re constantly consulting: with the Project Leader, the Production Leader, and the Production Manager; with fellow engineers; and, for larger components, directly with suppliers. You’re right in the thick of the build and actually see your own engineering come to life on board. For those who value ownership, who prefer to solve problems collaboratively rather than alone, and who seek a solution that only makes sense when technology, space, and the owner’s wishes all come together, this is a rare opportunity.
What You’ll Do as a Systems Engineer
You translate the architect’s design and the client’s system requirements into functional onboard technology: from schematics to detailed piping layouts, using Rhino and SOLIDWORKS. This includes systems for water, climate control, cooling, fuel, and safety—all of which must be integrated into a space that doesn’t naturally accommodate them. You’ll work closely with engineers specializing in hull, interior, electrical, engine room, and deck systems, and remain involved until the crew understands how everything works.
What You Bring to the Table as a Systems Engineer
A completed higher professional education (HBO+) or university (WO) degree in installation engineering or mechanical engineering
Work experience in installation engineering, (cargo) shipbuilding, offshore, piping, or a similar field
Proficiency in English – Vitters Shipyard is an international company
An interest in yacht building is a plus
What We Offer You
As a Systems Engineer at Vitters Shipyard, you’ll get:
A role with plenty of room for your own input and ownership, working on projects you won’t find anywhere else.
Opportunities for professional growth—through in-depth technical training, courses, or career advancement within engineering
A full-time gross monthly salary between €4,000 and €6,000, depending on education, skills, and experience
Excellent primary and secondary employment benefits in accordance with the Metal and Technology Collective Bargaining Agreement
Colleagues—both permanent employees and independent contractors, of various nationalities—who take just as much pride in the final result as you do.
Working at Vitters Shipyard in Zwartsluis
Imagine this: a sailing yacht measuring about 40 meters or more, packed with innovative systems, that wins awards and sailing races around the world. That’s what we build at Vitters Shipyard, guided by our motto , “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.” Every design is completely customized for the owner—no two yachts are alike. Dedicated engineers and craftsmen of various nationalities, whether full-time employees or independent contractors, work together for over a year on a single project to exceed the owner’s expectations.
Curious to see photos of recently built sailing yachts and get a sense of who we are? Then check out www.vitters.com.
Interested?
Are you the Systems Engineer we’re looking for? Apply now using the button at the top of the page, or contact Sjoeke Woudstra or Janine Wiersma (HRM) at 038-386 71 45.
We look forward to receiving your application and would love to meet you! *Recruitment efforts related to this job posting are not appreciated.
If your dream job isn’t listed here, but you think you’d be a good fit for our team? Get in touch and send us an open application.
