Mechanical Engineer | Prototyping & Design Validation

Job type:  Full-time

Team:        Engineering

Start:         Q4 2026

Please note that preference will be given to candidates already residing in the Netherlands to ensure a smoother onboarding process. At this time, we are not able to provide relocation support.

At Qlayers, we’re changing the way large industrial assets such as ships and storage tanks are coated. Our patented robotic technology improves coating quality, increases efficiency and reduces the environmental impact of industrial coating processes.

We’re a high-tech scale-up, which means we move quickly, build things, test them in the real world and continuously improve them. Our robots combine mechanical, electrical and automation systems — and we’re looking for a Mechanical Engineer who enjoys turning ideas into working hardware.

ABOUT THE JOB

As a Mechanical Engineer, you’ll be involved in the development of our robotic systems from early concepts and prototypes through to production and field operation.

Your main focus will be mechanical development, prototyping and design validation. You’ll develop new mechanical concepts, turn them into functional prototypes, test them in practice and use what you learn to improve the design.

Because our robots operate in demanding industrial environments, development doesn’t stop when a design works in the workshop. You’ll also work with Production, suppliers and Field Project Engineers to make sure designs are manufacturable, reliable and practical to use and maintain.

This is a hands-on role. You’ll spend time designing, building, testing, troubleshooting and improving real hardware.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Develop new mechanical concepts and translate them into functional, production-ready solutions.
• Design mechanical components, assemblies and systems for our robotic coating technology.
• Build and modify prototypes and test setups to validate mechanical designs.
• Plan and perform tests to evaluate performance, reliability and functionality.
• Analyse test results and field feedback and translate findings into design improvements.
• Take designs from prototype through validation and towards production.
• Consider manufacturability, assembly, maintenance and reliability throughout the design process.
• Work with Production and suppliers on manufacturing, assembly, quality and design improvements.
• Select and evaluate mechanical components, materials and manufacturing methods.
• Support troubleshooting, installation and maintenance of robots in operation.
• Investigate mechanical issues in the field and work with Field Project Engineers to turn operational feedback into product improvements.
• Work closely with Electrical and Automation Engineers to integrate mechanical systems into the complete robot.
• Document designs, test results and design changes.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of existing robotic systems.

WHAT YOU BRING

• A BSc or MSc in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics or a related field.
• Experience in mechanical product development, preferably involving physical products, machinery or robotics.
• Experience taking mechanical concepts through prototyping, testing and into production.
• A practical, hands-on approach to engineering and problem-solving.
• Experience with 3D CAD and designing components and assemblies for manufacturing.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes, mechanical components and materials.
• A structured approach to testing, validation and troubleshooting.
• You enjoy working with suppliers, production teams and other engineers to get things working in practice.
• Comfortable working in a fast-moving, hands-on engineering environment.
• Willingness to occasionally support testing, installation or troubleshooting in the field.
• Good command of English; Dutch is a plus.

WE OFFER

• Gross monthly salary €4500 – €6000. The exact amount depends on experience and seniority of the candidate.
• 8% holiday allowance
• 25 vacation days
• Flexible working hours
• Pension plan
• Tight-knit team
• Growth opportunities
• Self-development opportunities
• Flat hierarchy while still maintaining professional management.