'At JOZ, I can work on the latest innovations every day'

Working on innovations every day. That’s what Test Engineer Bart Groot likes best about his job. “When new technologies become available, we immediately look at how we can apply them to our solutions,” he says. “This way, our products are always equipped with the latest technical gadgets and we can continuously improve them,” Bart says, explaining what makes working at JOZ so challenging for him.

New innovations

Bart began his adventure at JOZ more than two years ago. “I wanted to get into electrical engineering,” he says. “The position and the sector appealed to me and the initial contact was very pleasant. That is why I had a good feeling right from the start.”

As Test Engineer, he works with Product Owner on the latest innovations within JOZ. “I am very happy with this role,” says Bart. “If a new solution or product improvement is devised, I am the person who tests it. Very interesting and challenging.”

Involved from the first moment

The product improvements and innovations within JOZ often arise from the needs of livestock farmers worldwide. Bart: “From the moment an idea arises, we brainstorm together. What is possible? What should the new innovation be able to do? And what do we need for that? Once we are clear on that, we quickly get to work on developing a prototype.”

“I then make a plan for testing the prototype and the actual robot,” Bart continues. “I do that for both the hardware and software. We make a list of requirements that the robot must meet and then check that the robot actually does what we intended. This process continues until we achieve the desired end result.”

Being able to develop prototypes at short notice is a great strength within JOZ, Bart believes. “We are not a huge organisation, so the lines are short and we can make decisions quickly. That benefits the product and it works incredibly well.”

No two days are the same

The variety in his work means that no two days are the same for Bart. “One minute I’m at my desk validating software, the next I’m testing innovations at a livestock farm. The day flies by.”

In addition, Bart enjoys putting time into reporting. “If we find out that a particular component fails frequently, I dive into it and work it into a report. I share this report with my colleagues so they can learn from it and move forward. It’s nice to be able to help your colleagues that way and contribute to a solution.”

Development of the latest innovation: the Nano

Bart has worked on numerous innovations in recent years. For example, on the Nano – JOZ’s newest manure robot – launched last November. “I was closely involved in the development of the Nano. For example, I researched how we could regulate water flow and then implemented that. In addition, I drafted the testing protocol.”

“We tested the machine by means of field validation. Does the robot do what we want it to do at livestock farms? Does it make the right turns? Do the nozzles and lift come on at the right time? In this way, we test the robot from A to Z at customers’ premises until it is ready for production. And after the launch, we always continue to develop the robot.”

West Frisian down-to-earth mentality

A down-to-earth mentality is something that fits JOZ well, Bart says. And it suits him too. “Everyone here is valued and I feel my opinion is taken seriously. That gives me a lot of confidence.”

“Moreover, we have a close-knit team and the atmosphere in the workplace is positive. Colleagues are there for you and always up for a chat. We have lunch together and on Friday afternoons we regularly have a few drinks together. We don’t just talk about work at those times, but all kinds of things.”

Pleasant employer

Bart is therefore happy not only with his pleasant and sociable colleagues, but also with JOZ as an employer. “Lots of possibilities are open to discussion. If you want to trade a day off, for example, or if you want to take a course.”

“If you are not happy in your current position, the door is always open to you. I like knowing that you can always start a conversation and that JOZ finds it important that everyone is in the right place. That creates a sense of security.”

The final stretch

Bart is currently in the process of graduating. “For the past 2.5 years, I have combined studying and working at JOZ,” he says. “Now that I’m in the final stages of my studies, I’m spending all my time on that. And JOZ gives me all the room I need.”

It won’t be long before Bart is able to work full-time at JOZ. “I will complete my studies soon and can start working on innovations for our products every day. I am incredibly excited about continuing to develop in this wonderful field of work.”

Also interested in working for JOZ?

Would you also like to work at JOZ as a Test Engineer or in another role? We’re always looking for people who share our drive for progress and innovation. See our job vacancies or email personeel@joz.nl.