Technical Specialist Ergonomics NEW

Job description

As a Technical Specialist Ergonomics at Damen Naval, you will play a key role in applying human factors engineering (HFE) principles to the design and improvement of naval vessels and training environments.
You will focus on optimizing the interaction between crew members and equipment by minimizing risks, enhancing system performance, and ensuring comfort, usability, and safety on board.

Your work will span multiple domains within ergonomics, including physical, cognitive, organizational, and linguistic aspects. You will collaborate closely with engineers, project managers, and suppliers to ensure the ergonomic integrity of all systems, from design concept to implementation. Your expertise will directly contribute to the performance and well-being of those operating Damen Naval platforms.

Key responsibilities

• Define and execute Human Factors Engineering (HFE) plans in line with project needs.
• Conduct ergonomic analyses of ship systems and human-machine interactions.
• Perform task-based assessments and derive technical requirements for design.
• Apply Leitmerkmal methods and draft Ergonomic Assessment Reports.
• Advise on workspace and equipment design to minimize crew workload and maximize efficiency.
• Support the integration of COTS equipment with a focus on usability and functionality.
• Identify and improve human-machine interfaces, especially in operational and informational contexts.
• Collaborate across departments to ensure ergonomic standards are met throughout the project lifecycle.

Skills & experience

• A relevant bachelor’s degree and experience working with engineers, suppliers, and project stakeholders on large-scale (preferably naval) projects.
• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with hazard assessments and ergonomic standards, ideally within German regulatory frameworks.
• Familiarity with tools such as Microsoft Office, SAP, IBM DOORS, and 3DX.
• Previous experience in shipbuilding or the maritime sector is preferred.
• Fluency in German and English, both spoken and written.
• Willingness to travel internationally.
• Permanent EU citizenship and a permanent EU passport (requirement due to the military nature of our projects).
• Candidates with EU (work) visa or with (also) a non-EU nationality and/or passport are not eligible given the requirements imposed by the military nature of our projects.

What we offer

At Damen Naval, we value our temporary team members and strive for a positive and successful collaboration.

• An attractive salary aligned with permanent staff.
• Travel allowance of 23 cents per kilometre.
• Flexibility to work from home up to two days a week.
• Challenging and innovative projects.

Application & information

This temporary assignment is exclusively offered on a secondment (detachering) or temporary employment contract basis.

If you are interested, please submit your application with the following details:

• Your CV and motivational letter.
• Indication of your expected hourly fee or gross monthly salary (based on full-time work).
• Your availability (full-time/part-time and number of hours).
• Your notice period and preferred start date.