Software Engineer - Embedded & Fullstack
Do you enjoy writing software that runs close to the hardware, and do you want to see your code come to life in high-tech medical equipment used all over the world? Are you just as comfortable debugging firmware on a microcontroller as you are building a clean web interface on top of it? Employ IR is looking for a Software Engineer who wants to take the next step in their career in the Netherlands. In this role you will work on modular embedded systems for advanced laboratory instruments, in a small, hands-on team where your contribution is visible from the very first day.
Description
As a Software Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, developing, testing and documenting software for high-tech medical equipment and laboratory instruments. The client specialises in capillary electrophoresis, a technique used to separate and measure substances in fluid samples. Your software is what makes these instruments accurate, reliable and easy to use.
The role covers the full stack. On the embedded side, you will write firmware in C for STM32 microcontrollers running FreeRTOS, with communication over CAN-bus. Higher up, you will work with Buildroot Linux, Python and FastAPI to build RESTful APIs, and with HTML, CSS and JavaScript for the user interfaces. Your activities include:
- Designing and developing embedded and application software for modular laboratory instruments.
- Testing your software in practice on the actual equipment, not only at your desk.
- Writing clear technical documentation and managing code through version control (SVN).
- Working closely with colleagues from development, engineering, production, service and quality control.
- Contributing ideas to improve existing products and the development process.
This is a day-shift position of 32 to 40 hours per week, within an organisation where short lines of communication and a practical mindset are part of daily life.
Requirements
You are a precise, analytical engineer who enjoys the combination of embedded systems and fullstack development. You work well independently, but you also value sharing knowledge and solving problems together with colleagues from other disciplines.
You bring:
- A Bachelors degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electronic Engineering or a related field.
- Several years of experience in software development, preferably with embedded systems.
- Knowledge of C, STM32, CAN-bus and FreeRTOS.
- Experience with Python (FastAPI), RESTful APIs and Linux (Buildroot is a plus).
- Familiarity with web technologies such as HTML, CSS and JavaScript, and with version control such as SVN.
- Fluency in Afrikaans, and the willingness to relocate to the Netherlands and learn Dutch.
Experience in medical technology or laboratory equipment is a strong advantage, but a genuine interest in the field is just as important.
What we offer
At Employ IR, we give you the space and freedom to take initiative and develop yourself. We believe it is important that you can apply your expertise to the fullest, and there is plenty of room to grow both personally and professionally. In addition, we offer:
- Base salary between €4.357 and €5.200 gross per month (based on experience).
- Employ IR will cover work related costs and the cost of relocating to the Netherlands.
- 8% of your gross yearly income as holiday allowance.
- A company car that can be used privately.
- 25 vacation days.
- A stimulating work environment with a focus on atmosphere and enjoyment.
- A solid pension scheme for a secure future.
About the client
Our client operates as a specialized manufacturer and service provider in the field of scientific instrumentation. They design, develop, produce, and supply capillary electrophoresis systems, detectors, software, consumables, and accessories primarily for pharma, research, quality control, and analytical applications. With a team of approximately 10–50 professionals, they serve both national and international clients, and also function as a recognized training and apprenticeship company, offering hands‑on learning in mechatronics and instrument engineering.
More information
About Employ IR:
Employ IR is a Dutch recruitment agency dedicated to connecting skilled South African professionals with leading technical employers in the Netherlands. Our focus is on long-term career growth, professional fulfilment, and personal well-being. We support our candidates through every step of relocation and integration, ensuring a successful transition into Dutch working life.
Interested?
If you are excited about contributing your technical and maintenance skills to high-impact projects in the Netherlands, we’d love to hear from you. Simply apply now to express your interest. Know someone else who might be a good fit? Feel free to share this vacancy.
Apply for the position of Software Engineer - Embedded & Fullstack
Fill in your details and leave your CV if you like. We aim to contact you within 1 working day to discuss your wishes.
We could not send your application. Please try again or contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about working in the Netherlands, your relocation or the process at Employ IR? Below are the questions we receive most often. Can't find your question? Please feel free to contact us.
View all frequently asked questionsHow does health insurance work in the Netherlands?
In the Netherlands, you are required to have health insurance, which covers essential services such as doctor visits, hospital care and medications. Health insurance costs about €150 per month. Employ IR offers independent experts to help you choose a health insurer, and the government ensures that all insurers offer the same basic coverage. There is an annual deductible, but most basic care is covered. For a referral to a specialist, you first visit your family doctor. Additional insurance is also available for extras such as dentistry or physical therapy. The system is accessible and guarantees quality care for everyone.
How long does the relocation process take?
After you sign your contract with Employ IR, the process usually takes about 6-8 weeks before you are in the Netherlands. However, this depends on factors beyond our control, such as the workload at the IND (Immigration and Naturalization Service).
What documents do I need to move to the Netherlands?
Everyone participating in the relocation process needs a passport and an unabridged birth certificate (with apostille). If you are married and want to bring your partner to the Netherlands, you also need a marriage certificate (with apostille). If you are in a long-term relationship but not married, you and your partner must both provide a declaration of marital impediment (with apostille). The unabridged birth certificates, marriage certificates and declarations of impediment to marriage can be obtained from the Department of Home Affairs. Apostilles can be obtained from DIRCO.
Can I use my South African driver's license in the Netherlands?
Yes, if you have applied for the 30% ruling, you can use your South African driver's license for the first six months. It is important that you convert your South African driver's license to a Dutch driver's license at your municipality after your 30% ruling has been approved. If you do not convert your driving license within the first six months, it will become invalid and you will have to take a driving test again in the Netherlands.
How much does it cost to move to the Netherlands through Employ IR?
In short, very little.
More comprehensive: Employ IR covers all costs related to your move, except for expenses incurred in South Africa, such as for your personal documents and other personal items.

What Employ IR arranges
We arrange your entire move to the Netherlands and take care of the process for you. With our years of experience in visa procedures, we handle your visa application quickly and carefully, including applications for your partner and children. We arrange your housing, transport with a company car, Dutch lessons and the application for the 30% ruling. We also take care of the details from start to finish: from personally welcoming you at the airport to helping you register with a GP and sports clubs, apply for child benefit and much more. Your relocation manager guides you personally throughout the process.
What you arrange and pay for yourself
Employ IR pays the estate agent and covers the costs of finding your home; you pay the monthly rent yourself. You also arrange your own personal documents in South Africa and private insurance, including health insurance, which is compulsory in the Netherlands.