Project Manager Hydrodynamics Complex Naval Craft
Publication date5 Jun 2025
FieldDefence
LocationWageningen
Employment32-40 hours
Work on innovative (uncrewed) vessels and contribute to an effective and capable defence for the safe and free use of the sea.
What will you do?
At MARIN, we are shaping the future of naval operations, involving a wide range of platforms and systems - including high-speed vessels and unmanned craft with often complex and innovative hull forms. Seakeeping, manoeuvrability, and structural loads are critical factors for the safe and effective deployment of these vessels.
We are looking for a Project Manager who can analyse and optimize the behaviour of such vessels. You have a deep understanding of the underlying hydrodynamics and know how to apply this knowledge using advanced, in-house developed time-domain simulation tools and physical model testing. You will manage and improve these tools and help steer the further development of our services in this field.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for a colleague with a Masters' or PhD in a relevant technical field, such as Naval Architecture, Aerospace Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering. You recognize yourself in the following qualities:
- Solid knowledge and experience in high-speed craft, seakeeping and manoeuvring behaviour, or the application of complex hydrodynamics in ship design.
- Proactive in identifying opportunities and taking decisive action within projects.
- Driven to identify and pursue opportunities in the defence sector.
- Skilled in networking and building relationships, both within and outside MARIN.
- Fluent in English (knowledge of Dutch is a plus).
You will join the Surface Combatants team within MARIN’s Defence department. In this department over 30 professionals work, mainly project managers and specialists, committed to strengthening naval capabilities and ensuring a secure and free sea. As global tensions rise, the demand for high-quality technical support in the naval domain continues to grow.
MARIN plays a key role in meeting this demand by developing deep expertise in hydrodynamics, energy systems, human-machine interaction, and unmanned systems. This knowledge is applied in innovative projects for and with Defence, international partners, and the maritime industry.
What do we offer?
- A dynamic and inspiring work environment with the freedom to shape your own development.
- A competitive salary and benefits package, including:
- Annual profit-sharing.
- An excellent pension plan.
- A lifecycle allowance of 5.55% of your gross monthly salary.
- 29 vacation days (based on full-time employment) plus five additional days off between Christmas and New Year.
- Ample opportunities for professional development and career growth.
- Flexible working hours and a hybrid work model that supports a healthy work-life balance.
Who are we?
MARIN (Maritime Research Institute Netherlands) is a globally recognized top institute in hydrodynamic and nautical research, based in Wageningen, the Netherlands. Our mission is clear:
Better Ships, Blue Oceans - we stand for clean, smart and safe shipping and the sustainable use of the sea. As an independent knowledge partner for the maritime sector, governments, and society, we work with around 450 dedicated experts across various disciplines. At MARIN, we foster an open and collaborative culture, where you are encouraged to explore your ideas, take initiative, and grow - both professionally and personally.
Interested?
Eelco Harmsen, Team Leader Surface Combatants, will be happy to tell you more about this position: e.harmsen@marin.nl. A security screening is part of the application process. You can apply for this position by using the APPLY button. Please send your up-to-date CV and motivation letter before June 30, 2025.
Contact
HRM