Vacancy Applied Project/Research Engineer

Geplaatst op: 
14-07-2026
Bedrijf: 
Belgisch Instituut voor Lastechniek vzw

The Belgian Welding Institute is looking for an Applied Project/Research Engineer to join our research team.

Are you interested or experienced in welding, robotics, metallurgy, DED-Arc 3D printing digital monitoring and welding jigs?
Do you enjoy solving technical challenges and working on innovative projects?
Would you like to be part of a small, international team where you can learn from experienced colleagues and make a real impact? 

Then you could be the person we're looking for!

As an applied project/research Engineer, you'll work on research projects with companies, research partners, and colleagues. Every project is different, giving you the opportunity to develop your skills and help shape the future of (flexible) welding, additive manufacturing & quality monitoring.
 

WHAT YOU’LL DO

Working closely with our experienced senior project engineers, you will contribute to a range of (inter)national research projects. Your responsibilities include:

  • Optimising process parameters for a variety of alloys
  • Developing and implementing real-time monitoring solutions for DED-Arc, arc welding, and solid-state welding processes
  • Characterising materials and correlating monitoring data with microstructural and mechanical properties
  • Developing tools and solutions to support flexible welding and welding fixtures/jigs
  • Preparing technical reports and collaborating with project partners
      

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

We're looking for a motivated engineer with a passion for welding, innovation, and applied research. Whether you're just starting your career or already have industry experience, you'll thrive if you're eager to learn, enjoy solving technical challenges, and like working in a collaborative environment.

  • Having welding knowledge, materials science, manufacturing engineering or a related field
  • Experience with arc welding and/or additive manufacturing processes (DED-Arc)
  • Familiarity with real-time monitoring and sensing technologies
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills
  • Able to work independently while also enjoying collaboration in a small team
  • Detail-oriented and comfortable working in research/industry-focused projects
  • Practical, solution-oriented mindset
  • Excellent communication skills and strong team spirit
  • Both junior and experienced candidates are encouraged to apply

NICE TO HAVE

The following skills are a plus, but don't worry if you don't tick every box. We're happy to help you learn, grow, and develop your skills.

  • Familiarity with CAD/CAM programming and (KUKA) robotic systems
  • Experience with sensor technologies, such as IR cameras, thermal cameras, and acoustic sensors
  • Experience with data acquisition and data analysis
  • An IWE or IWT qualification is an advantage
  • A good understanding of arc welding processes, particularly MIG/MAG welding and CMT welding machine

WHAT WE OFFER

At the Belgian Welding Institute, you'll work in a small, international team where innovation, initiative, and entrepreneurship are encouraged. We offer a supportive environment where you can grow, take ownership of your projects, and make a real impact.

  • Position type: an 18-month contract, with the potential for permanent (unlimited duration) employment
  • Market-competitive salary aligned with your experience
  • Year-end bonus (13th-month salary)
  • At least 29 holidays per year (20 Statutory vacation days + 9 ADV days + non-statutory vacation days; in accordance with the employee's profile and company policy)
  • Group insurance benefits
  • Health insurance benefits
  • Meal vouchers in accordance with Belgian employment benefits
  • Option to Flex Income Plan (Extra holidays)
  • Option to work from home
  • Commuting allowance

PRACTICAL ASPECTS

  • Languages: English is required, Dutch is a plus
  • Having a valid permit to work in Belgium is mandatory
  • Start date: Ideally September 2026
  • Location: Technologiepark Zwijnaarde (Ghent), Belgium
     

APPLY NOW

Interested? Send your CV and motivation letter to the general manager, Bart Verstraeten at bart.verstraeten@bil-ibs.be

with Cc to rafael.nunes@bil-ibs.be & wim.verlinde@bil-ibs.be

  • ing. Bart Verstraeten

    IWE, IWI-C, VOL-VCA
    contactpersoon
    Director BIL Industrie BV & BIL vzw
    Telefoonnummer:
    +32 (0)9 292 14 09
    +32 (0)495 217 135
    +32 (0)2 260 11 71