Job Description
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At the
National Transport Research Organisation (NTRO)
we strive to be an innovation portal through which government and industry can gain great outcomes across all modes of transport. We create new knowledge through research, develop the means for improving practice, and provide expert advice to the Australia and New Zealand Transport Agencies and industry to ensure that our communities will always have safe, sustainable and efficient transportation networks.
NTRO is a globally connected Not‑for‑profit, purpose and innovation‑driven organisation that has over many decades built a strong presence within the Roads, Rail, Ports and Airports sectors which ensures that we cover all modes of the transport network in everything we do.
Your next opportunity awaits at NTRO
At NTRO, we believe in building technology that moves industries forward. You'll work alongside a multidisciplinary team of engineers, data scientists, and innovators — all dedicated to developing systems that bridge the physical and digital worlds.
Are you passionate about the intersection of
hardware, software, and data ?
Do you thrive on turning intelligent machines into smarter, more connected systems?
NTRO's Data and Technology team are seeking a
Senior Mechatronics Software Engineer
to help design, develop, and optimise the intelligent mechatronic platforms that power our world‑class data capture vehicles and related technologies.
You’ll be exposed to work at the cutting edge of embedded software, control systems and data‑driven engineering, shaping the way machines interact with their environment and transform data into insight.
This role is full‑time and based in our Port Melbourne office.
Main duties of the role
Problem Solving:
Proven capability in problem solving and critical thinking, including breaking down technical challenges, evaluating options & recommending the best outcome forward
Software & Systems Development:
Design, develop, and maintain embedded software and firmware for smart devices, automation systems, and connected mechatronic platforms.
Data Integration:
Implement data collection, logging, and communication between hardware components and cloud or edge systems to enable analysis and optimisation.
Control Systems Engineering:
Develop and tune advanced control algorithms (e.g. PID, model predictive, adaptive control) for sensors, actuators, and robotic systems.
Connectivity & IoT:
Integrate communication protocols such as CAN, Modbus, and TCP/IP to support real‑time data exchange in networked systems.
Simulation & Testing:
Model and simulate mechatronic systems using tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, LabVIEW, or Python, and perform hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HIL) testing for validation.
Collaboration & Data Utilisation:
Partner with data engineers and scientists to feed operational data into analytics or machine learning pipelines, supporting predictive maintenance and system optimisation.
Documentation & Compliance:
Prepare detailed documentation of system architecture, software design, and data flow processes while ensuring alignment with organisational standards, safety, and quality requirements.
About you
You are a highly skilled and curious engineer who thrives in multidisciplinary environments. With a hands‑on approach to solving complex technical challenges, you turn data into meaningful insights that elevate system performance and drive innovation forward.
Essential Skills and Experience
Relevant tertiary qualification in Mechatronics, Software Engineering, or related discipline
5-10 years of relevant experience in mechatronic software and systems engineering
Proven experience applying critical thinking and problem solving to a range of technical challenges
Experience with leading, supervising or mentoring junior engineers/ teams previously
Proficiency in Python, C++, SQL, and firmware development.
Experience with ROS (Robot Operating System), PLC programming, and industrial automation frameworks.
Knowledge of machine learning / AI integration in mechatronic systems, including image recognition.
Familiarity with digital twins, predictive analytics, and data visualisation.
Understanding of cybersecurity principles for connected devices.
Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with a focus on system reliability and data quality.
Excellent communication, teamwork, and documentation capabilities.
We offer the following and more to ensure we look after the ones who matter most, Our People
Opportunities to work with globally recognised experts, who offer one‑on‑one mentorship and support throughout your career.
Excellent employee benefits including access to pre‑tax salary sacrifice arrangements to make your take home pay work better for you and your family
Access to 8 weeks of parental leave and support upon your return to the workplace
Annual Christmas closure with an additional 2 paid public holidays in December because we recognise taking time with those close to us is important
Tailored career development that supports your aspirations with a clear step‑by‑step guide for progression within the organisation
Reward and recognition programs to highlight the great work that is being done every day from our incredible team members
Well established social club in almost all offices with regular activities, quiz nights and tournaments to keep you busy!
Every role at NTRO is meaningful, are you ready for yours?
At NTRO we are proud to continually attract leading minds within the Transport infrastructure and research areas. We host a culturally and gender diverse work environment and we celebrate workforce diversity while highlighting the multidisciplinary teams of professionals from all over the world. We strongly encourage applications from Women looking to make an impact within the STEM arena.
Don't meet every single requirement for this role? We recognise you may have a diverse set of skills, work experiences, and life experiences that can greatly enhance the ability to deliver effective transport solutions and positive community outcomes. If you are excited about this role, but your experience doesn't align with the criteria we still encourage you to submit your application.
NTRO actively seeks to include and value the unique talents, perspectives, experiences, and contributions of all applicants.
Applicants must be residing Australian Citizens / Permanent Resident of Australia.
Please ensure you attached your CV, attach a separate cover letter (no more than one page) addressing why you would be perfect for this role and what you would be hoping to get out of it, and answer the screening questions provided.
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