Shiptec AG

Luzern

Development Engineer / Project Manager (Autonomous Watercraft) (m/f/d)

  • 09 June 2026
  • 100%
  • Luzern

About the job

80% - 100% | permanent

Develop the ships of tomorrow with us - autonomous, intelligent and unique

Shiptec AG develops and builds modern ships and operating systems for inland navigation in Switzerland and Europe. In addition, it offers maintenance work as well as the renewal of existing ships. Shiptec AG employs around 100 specialists and is characterised by efficient, interdisciplinary project and team work. The development, planning and deployment of new technologies is one of Shiptec AG's core competencies. Among other development projects, the development of self-driving, autonomous watercraft is also a significant goal. With innovative technologies from the fields of artificial intelligence, robotics, data science and sustainable propulsion systems, we create pioneering solutions.

Your mission
You will take on a key role in the development of autonomous watercraft - from initial ideas and prototypes to real applications on the water. Together with an interdisciplinary team, you will bring technologies to the lake that are still futuristic today.

In the role of development engineer and project manager for autonomous driving systems, you will lead the relevant (pilot) projects for Shiptec and plan the individual stages. In the introductory phase, you will familiarise yourself with the current status of ongoing developments (internal and external). Together with the development manager for self-driving ships and the project team, you will define the test, system and safety requirements and evaluate tools as well as hardware and software components. As project manager, you are responsible for the success of the respective (pilot) projects - whether in terms of adherence to costs, deadlines and the satisfaction of internal and external customers.


Your area of responsibility

  • Project management and development for the realisation of (pilot) projects for automatic steering systems in shipping up to the autonomous ship (IMO Level 4)
  • Project work from A to Z, supporting development, engineering and production in the construction of prototypes
  • Project controlling regarding deadlines, quality and costs
  • Developing concepts for the four levels of automation in shipping (decision support systems, remote control of ships with crew on board / without crew on board, fully autonomous ships) taking into account prevailing conditions such as hydrodynamics, propulsion technology, weather and current conditions as well as traffic situations
  • Designing hardware and software system requirements, sensor technology, measurement and control technology, control systems, signal processing, visual processing, machine learning, AI applications
  • Testing, evaluating and optimising in trial operation
  • Adjustments for customer applications, specific uses and safety requirements
  • Customer consulting, development of customer-specific self-driving solutions for energy-optimised watercraft
  • Active participation in shaping a future technology with great development potential



Requirements profile

  • Completed studies in automotive and vehicle technology, aerospace, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, shipbuilding or a comparable field
  • Further training or practical experience in robotics, systems and control, data analysis, artificial intelligence
  • Further training in project management (if possible IPMA or equivalent)
  • Experience in project management as well as development of prototypes and with test and simulation systems
  • High self-motivation
  • Enjoyment in exploring new paths and unknown terrain
  • Strong communication skills in exchange with customers, partners and authorities
  • Very good German and English skills

What to expect:
  • Unique development projects with high visibility
  • The opportunity to actively shape the future of autonomous shipping
  • Modern technologies at the interface of shipbuilding, robotics and artificial intelligence (keyword: Physical AI)
  • High personal responsibility and scope for design
  • Short decision-making paths and a committed team of specialists
  • Workplace directly on Lake Lucerne in Lucerne
  • Flexible working time models and attractive employment conditions

Ready to make history on the water?
If autonomous systems, intelligent ships and technological pioneering work excite you, we look forward to meeting you.

Shape the next generation of shipping with us.

My job at Shiptec has many facets. On the one hand, I work with very complex machines that do not stand in grey factory halls but glide over the beautiful lakes. On the other hand, with the people who operate, repair and maintain these machines with great passion. The fact that our innovations also make an impact on sustainable mobility is all the more satisfying. So I also like to be out and about with our products after work.

Nikolas, Development Manager Autonomous Driving and Digitalisation

Shiptec AG
Shiptec AG offers a unique working environment where innovation and passion for shipping are at the centre. Together we work to make shipping more future-oriented and constantly develop new products. There are no standard solutions with us – every day brings exciting new challenges. A strong sense of cohesion and team spirit shape our work and make us successful. Become part of our team and help shape the future of maritime craftsmanship with us.

Excited and curious for more?
Contact details:
Human Resources Department

+41 41 367 66 44
jobs@sgvholding.ch

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