As an experienced Lead Engineer Software, one day you’ll be developing an advanced production machine, and the next you’ll be working on cutting-edge analytical equipment.

Together with the customer, you translate functional requirements into robust software solutions. As the technical lead and trusted advisor, you take ownership, connect the team, and drive projects toward the highest quality and best possible results.

Pushing technical boundaries

With a passionate team of around 550 colleagues, we develop high-tech modules, systems, and intelligent automation solutions every day. We do this across our three business lines: Ultra Conditioned Precision Modules (UCPM), Advanced OEM Systems (AOS), and Printing & Assembly Automation (PAA). Together, they form the foundation of our company, serving industries such as medical technology, semiconductors, and automotive.

Within our Advanced OEM Systems (AOS) business line, we work side by side with our customers through co-engineering partnerships built on long-term collaboration. We help transform innovative concepts into manufacturable high-tech systems while taking responsibility for engineering, industrialization, and production. For these challenging customer projects, we are looking for an experienced Lead Engineer Software with strong technical expertise and the ability to earn the full confidence of our customers.

“Most of the things we build are completely new and have never been made before. The real thrill comes when someone says, ‘It can’t be done,’ and then we prove that it can.” Tim van de Ven, Engineering Manager at AAE

What will your role be?

As Lead Engineer Software, you are technically responsible for the software development of complex machines used in the analytical, semiconductor, and high-tech equipment industries. You translate customer requirements and system specifications into robust software solutions, guide key technical decisions, and, where needed, lead internal and external software engineers. In doing so, you ensure seamless integration between software, hardware, mechanics, and controls, enabling successful project delivery.

You work closely with system engineers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and customers throughout the project lifecycle.

Specifically, you will:

• Work according to the V-model within multidisciplinary project teams, starting from the proposal phase.
• Define and align software-related user requirements with the system engineer and the customer.
• Contribute to the mechatronic system concept and automation architecture.
• Design and implement industrial control software for built-to-specification machines while leading a small software team when required.
• Debug, commission, and validate software together with the project team at AAE's headquarters in Helmond.
• Provide technical support for software and service-related issues.

You will become part of our software team of approximately 10 engineers within the Advanced OEM Systems business line. The atmosphere is open, collaborative, and quality-driven. Engineers actively support one another, even when working on different projects or from different locations.

Being part of something great

At AAE, we're proud of more than just our groundbreaking technology. What truly sets us apart is our culture. Our people are at the heart of everything we do and are the foundation of our success. Alongside technical milestones, we celebrate our achievements together and enjoy a variety of social activities, from pub quizzes and summer barbecues to cycling events and friendly padel matches.

You’ve got what it takes

With your strong communication skills and collaborative mindset, you know how to bring people together and achieve outstanding results as a team. Your passion for technology and innovation drives you to continuously improve software processes and deliver high-quality solutions.

In addition, you bring:

• A bachelor's or master's degree in Industrial Automation, Mechatronics, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• At least five years of relevant experience, preferably in high-tech machine building, the semiconductor industry, or analytical systems.
• Experience with PLC programming (Siemens, Beckhoff, or Allen-Bradley), object-oriented programming, and motion control and robotics.
• Experience with Agile and Scrum methodologies and leading small to medium-sized software teams.
• Willingness to travel internationally on an occasional basis (approximately one to two weeks per year).

How we take care of you

At AAE, your happiness at work is our number one priority. That's why we invest in your personal and professional growth and offer an extensive vitality program that supports both your physical and mental well-being.

As a Lead Engineer Software (based on a 40-hour workweek), you can expect:

• A gross monthly salary between €4,000 and €7,700, depending on your experience and performance.
• Annual profit sharing.
• 40 paid days off (27 vacation days and 13 additional leave days).
• Travel allowance.
• Access to the AAE Academy for your personal and professional development.

And did you know that AAE was recognized as a World Class Workplace for the second time in 2025? This prestigious employer certification is awarded based on the outstanding appreciation of our own employees.

Together we move the world happily forward

Do you want to make a real impact on the world? Join AAE as our next Lead Engineer Software and help shape the technology of tomorrow while building a better future together.