About the opportunity
This two-year EngD position at the University of Twente, in collaboration with Rijkswaterstaat, focuses on developing an innovative framework for digital Condition-Based Maintenance (CBM) for the Hengelo Lock Complex. The project addresses the challenges of aging infrastructure and labor shortages by moving away from manual inspections toward an automated Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) system. The successful candidate will analyze structural and mechanical components, evaluate sensor technologies, and perform cost-benefit assessments. The role is based in Enschede/Hengelo and involves working closely with both academic supervisors and Rijkswaterstaat professionals. Upon completion, the candidate will receive an Engineering Doctorate (EngD) and be registered as a Technological Designer.
Salary and benefits
- Two-year full-time employment contract with the University of Twente
- Gross monthly salary of €3,173
- 8% annual holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end bonus
- Minimum of 29 days of annual leave
- Pension and health care benefits
- Tailor-made educational and development program of at least 6 months (30 EC)
- Mentorship for professional and personal growth
- Access to campus sports and leisure facilities
Who can apply?
- Top-tier M.Sc. graduate in structural engineering, mechanical engineering, structural health monitoring, monitoring systems, or asset management
- Ambition and talent for solving complex, multidisciplinary technological issues
- High proficiency in professional English
- Working command of Dutch is highly preferred
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in teams
- Willingness to relocate to the vicinity of Enschede
- Availability for daily presence at the University of Twente and the Rijkswaterstaat branch in Hengelo
Required documents
- Recent CV including academic and professional experience
- Motivation letter (maximum 1 page) explaining interest and relevant background
- Overview of M.Sc. degree including thesis title, abstract, and grade list
When to apply
- Application deadline: 2026-11-15
How to apply
- Submit the required documents via the online application portal
- Selection committee reviews applications within 2 weeks after the deadline
- First interview (online or in person) including a potential short presentation
- Second interview to discuss job content, skills, and talents
- Final offer and potential screening
Additional information
- The project is hosted by Rijkswaterstaat, the executive agency of the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management.
- Supervision provided by Dr. Farid Vahdatikhaki and Dr. Roland Kromanis (University of Twente) and Mr. Sukon Wu (Rijkswaterstaat).
- The position is registered under the Royal Institution of Engineers in the Netherlands (KIVI).
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Ideal for M.Sc. graduates in structural or mechanical engineering seeking to bridge the gap between academic research and practical industrial application.
- Strong fit for candidates interested in the intersection of civil infrastructure, sensor technology, and asset management.
- Excellent opportunity for those who thrive in a collaborative environment involving both university researchers and government agency professionals.
What should you think carefully about?
- Requires daily on-site presence in Enschede/Hengelo, making relocation necessary if not already based in the region.
- A working command of Dutch is highly preferred, which may be a barrier for non-Dutch speakers despite the requirement for high English proficiency.
- The role is a fixed-term two-year position, which should be considered in the context of long-term career planning.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This EngD position is an excellent way to gain specialized, high-impact experience in digital infrastructure maintenance while earning a recognized professional doctorate. It serves as a bridge for those looking to transition from a master's degree into a high-level technical design career within the Dutch engineering sector.
Our take
This is a highly suitable opportunity for top-performing engineering graduates who want to apply their technical skills to real-world infrastructure challenges. Candidates who are comfortable with a mix of academic research and practical implementation, and who are willing to relocate to the Netherlands, should seriously consider applying.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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