R&D Mechatronics Engineer

As a leading European research centre, VITO brings together more than 1,300 employees to translate scientific insights into technological innovations, AI-driven solutions, and policy advice with real societal impact. Our mission is clear: to create a sustainable and promising future for our world. Join us in making this vision a reality! The group for Construction Robotics and Innovative Building Envelopes (CRIB) at VITO is dedicated to advancing sustainable and industrialised construction. Our primary objective is to develop next-generation building envelope systems, supported by innovative design methodologies, robotics, and digital construction workflows. We coordinate and contribute to high-impact Flemish and European R&I projects in industrial renovation and construction innovation, such as RENOMIZE , SOLMATE , oPEN Lab , and FRAIMwork . Within these projects, we develop innovative prefabricated façade systems, automated construction processes, and robotics solutions for the built environment. Our team is equipped with the THOREAQ lab infrastructure, which includes real-scale twin buildings for A-B testing of novel construction systems and components, a robotic workshop for system development and prototyping, and an outdoor construction lab for demonstration and implementation. Through our active involvement in applied R&I projects and strategic collaborations with industrial partners, CRIB contributes to a more climate-resilient, affordable, and circular built environment. To strengthen our rapidly growing robotics activities, we are looking for an R&D Robotics Mechatronics Engineer to join our interdisciplinary team. Are you a hands-on mechatronics engineer who enjoys designing, building and integrating robotic systems? Do you thrive on turning innovative concepts into working prototypes and combining mechanical, electrical and software components into intelligent robotic solutions? Are you excited to develop next-generation construction robotics and validate your work in a unique real-world testing environment? Then join us at VITO and help shape the future of construction robotics. Your role As an R&D Robotics Mechatronics Engineer, you will play a key role in transforming innovative robotics concepts into working systems. You will bridge the gap between system architecture and physical implementation by designing, building, integrating and validating robotic platforms for industrialised construction and renovation. Working closely with robotics and construction experts, you will contribute to the development of autonomous robotic systems, custom mechatronics, robotic prototypes and demonstrators that are validated under realistic construction conditions. This is a highly hands-on engineering role where designing, prototyping, testing and continuously improving robotic systems go hand in hand. You will Design and develop mechanical and mechatronic systems for robotic construction platforms, end-effectors and experimental setups Translate concepts into detailed mechanical and electrical designs ready for fabrication and assembly Select and integrate sensors, actuators, motors, drives, electrical components and safety systems into complete robotic solutions Develop CAD models, manufacturing drawings, electrical schematics and engineering documentation Build, assemble, integrate and commission robotic prototypes in collaboration with robotics, controls and software engineers Support testing, troubleshooting and iterative improvement of robotic systems in laboratory and real-world construction environments Contribute to the development of reusable robotic hardware platforms and engineering solutions across multiple research and innovation projects Collaborate with external suppliers for component sourcing, manufacturing and prototype fabrication Contribute to Flemish and European research and innovation projects by developing robust demonstrators with industrial relevance Help further develop CRIB's robotics workshop and prototype development capabilities A Master's degree in Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Electromechanical Engineering or a related discipline Approximately 3 to 5 years of experience in mechatronics, robotics, machine building or advanced automation Experience designing mechanical systems using CAD software (e.g. Inventor, SolidWorks, Fusion 360 or similar) Experience integrating mechanical, electrical and control components into complete mechatronic systems Hands-on experience with prototype development, assembly, commissioning and testing Knowledge of sensors, actuators, motion systems, electrical integration and industrial automation A practical engineering mindset with a strong interest in turning concepts into robust working systems Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams involving robotics, software, controls and construction experts Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail and a proactive attitude Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of Dutch is considered an asset Bonus Skills Experience with robotic manipulators, collaborative robots or autonomous mobile robots Experience with rapid prototyping technologies, machining, CNC manufacturing or additive manufacturing Experience designing robotic end-effectors or custom tooling Experience with electrical cabinet design, industrial wiring or machine safety Experience with ROS2, PLC integration or embedded systems Experience working in applied research, prototype development or European R&I projects Familiarity with construction machinery, industrial equipment or field robotics Experience contributing to prototype validation, laboratory testing or demonstrator development Offer Hybrid work flexibility – Your activities determine your workplace! You’ll primarily work from our EnergyVille Genk office, but remote work and other VITO locations (Antwerp or Leuven) are possible. Competitive salary package, including extra-legal benefits such as allowances, insurance, and modular holiday options. Innovation is at our core – We invest in training and development, ensuring our team remains at the forefront of the industry. We highly value a good work-life balance at VITO. This is achieved by adopting a flexible attitude depending on your specific needs. An established national and international network of research and industry partners enabling us to conduct applied research with real impact. At VITO, we are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, or cultural identity. Application deadline 31 August 2026