Automation & Control Engineer

Bound4blue
Bound4blue

Barcelona, Spain

Posted on Aug 6, 2026

About us

We are a European scale-up dedicated to developing cutting-edge, automated wind-assisted propulsion systems. Our goal is to provide a turnkey solution for shipowners and shipping companies seeking to reduce fuel costs and emissions. Our vision is simple yet ambitious—we aim to power the world with wind.

Imagine a world where the vast oceans are effortlessly traversed using the clean and boundless power of the wind. At Bound4blue, we are turning this dream into reality. We're not just creating wind propulsion systems but revolutionizing the maritime industry, one sustainable voyage at a time. While bringing sails back to ships may seem challenging, we are more than prepared for it. We are innovators who understand the perfect harmony between nature and technology.

About the role:

As an Automation & Control Engineer, you will play an active role in the installation, commissioning and field support of bound4blue's eSAIL® systems. You will work closely with multidisciplinary teams, travelling to shipyards and vessels to perform system commissioning, troubleshooting, testing and validation activities, while also supporting automation development and continuous improvement initiatives.

Key responsibilities

  • Participate commissioning and start-up of eSAIL® automation and control systems.

  • Develop FAT, HAT, SAT protocols and documentation based on efficiency and cost reduction KPIs. Participate in technical investigations, machine availability studies and root-cause analyses

  • Perform FAT, HAT, SAT and sea trials, ensuring correct system performance.

  • Troubleshoot electrical, automation and communication issues during commissioning and operational support.

  • Support PLC and HMI programming modifications.

  • Work closely with shipyards, vessel crews, suppliers and internal engineering teams during installations.

  • Execute system inspections, functional testing and validation before delivery.

  • Prepare commissioning reports, technical documentation and service records.

  • Support remote technical assistance and after-sales interventions when required.

  • Identify opportunities for product and process improvements based on field experience.

  • Ensure compliance with safety procedures during onboard operations and site activities.

    Required competencies:

  • Bachelor's degree in electronic engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field.

  • 1- 5 years of experience in automation and control roles, with experience in Siemens PLCs and HMIs.

  • Proven experience in system integration, testing, commissioning, and post-installation services.

  • Knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, and industrial automation systems.

  • Ability to read electrical diagrams and troubleshoot electrical systems.

  • Familiarity with industrial communication networks.

  • Knowledge of Siemens automation environments is considered an advantage.

  • Comfortable working with electrical instrumentation and commissioning equipment.

Nice to have

  • Previous experience onboard vessels or in shipyards.

  • Knowledge of marine electrical installations.

  • Experience performing commissioning or field service activities.

  • Understanding of maritime safety procedures.

  • Experience programming Siemens WinCC Unified HMIs is highly valued.

  • Experience working with Siemens Safety PLCs is highly valued.

  • Experience with Python programming for PC-based applications is considered a strong advantage.

  • Experience configuring cybersecurity in Siemens automation systems is highly valued.

  • Exposure to Industry 4.0 and IoT projects is considered an advantage.

Other requirements

  • Strong hands-on attitude and willingness to work in field environments.

  • Availability to travel frequently (nationally and internationally) and work onboard vessels.

  • Good problem-solving skills under operational conditions.

  • Ability to work autonomously while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

  • Fluency in written and spoken Spanish and English.

What Awaits You at b4b:

  • Meaningful Impact: Your work directly contributes to sustainable shipping solutions and reduces emissions, making a tangible difference in the maritime industry.

  • Innovation at its Core: Join a team pioneering wind-assisted propulsion technology, working on groundbreaking solutions that challenge industry norms.

  • Global Collaboration, Local Team: Experience the diversity of our international team while collaborating with suppliers and customers worldwide.

Join us and contribute to changing the future of ship propulsion!