Data & Research Coordinator (Inland Shipping & River Cruise)

Shape the future of safe, sustainable, and smart inland shipping through data, research, and innovation"A certification and incentive program for shipping. Together we contribute globally to sustainable waterborne transport." The Green Award Foundation, based in Rotterdam, is looking for a digitally savvy Data & Research Coordinator – European Inland Shipping & River Cruise who combines analytical capabilities with a passion for sustainability, innovation, and waterborne transport. This is not a traditional research role. You will help strengthen Green Award's certification programmes for inland shipping and river cruise vessels by developing evidence-based requirements that go beyond regulatory compliance and promote industry best practices. Through research, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement, you will help shape the future of safer, cleaner, and smarter inland waterborne transport. You will make an impact by:In this role, you help ensure that Green Award remains a trusted and forward-looking certification body. By combining research, data, and collaboration with industry stakeholders, you contribute to safer, cleaner, and smarter inland waterborne transport across Europe.Helping raise safety, sustainability, and operational standards in inland shipping and river cruising. Ensuring Green Award certification reflects emerging risks, technologies, and industry best practices. Supporting the sector's transition towards more sustainable and data-driven operations. Providing evidence-based insights that inform strategic decisions and programme development. Encouraging continuous improvement that goes beyond regulatory compliance.What you'll do:In your day-to-day work, you willConduct research into safety, sustainability, and operational developments in the inland shipping and river cruise sectors. Analyze operational and performance data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities. Develop dashboards, reports, and visualizations using Power BI and other digital tools. Monitor European legislation, industry developments, and technological innovations. Draft and update certification requirements based on research findings and stakeholder input. Consult with operators, regulators, ports, and other industry partners to gather insights and validate proposals. Contribute to projects that further develop Green Award's certification programmes and strategic initiatives.Who you areYou are curious, analytical, and driven by impact. You enjoy working at the intersection of sustainability, technology, waterways, and data. Think like a researcher and act like a data-driven problem solver.Are passionate about the future of European inland shipping and river cruising.Are comfortable working with data, digital tools, and analytical methods. Have a proactive and hands-on mindset.Can translate complex information into clear and actionable recommendations. Enjoy collaborating with operators, regulators, ports, policymakers, and industry experts.Are motivated by creating tangible improvements in safety, sustainability, and operational performance.Are excited by the challenge of helping an industry move beyond compliance toward excellence.Your profileEssentialHBO or Master's degree in Sustainability, Data Analytics, Engineering, Transport & Logistics, Environmental Sciences, Economics, Public Policy, or a related field.3–7 years of relevant experience in research, analytics, consulting, sustainability, European inland shipping and/or river cruise sectors .Familiarity with European regulations and industry frameworks (e.g. ES-TRIN, ADN, CESNI, CCNR).Strong affinity with data analytics, digital tools, and innovation. Experience developing dashboards and data visualisations (e.g. Power BI) Ability to translate complex data and research into clear, practical recommendations.Excellent communication skills in Dutch and English, both written and spoken. Based in the Netherlands and able to commute to Rotterdam. PreferredExperience with analytics, benchmarking, or performance monitoring.Ability to translate operational findings into actionable insights.Interest in research and evidence-based development of standards and best practices.Experience with sustainability, ESG, safety, or quality-management initiatives.Understanding of how standards, certification schemes, or best-practice frameworks can stimulate performance beyond minimum regulatory requirements.Working knowledge of German, and/or French.What we offerA purpose-driven role with direct impact on the future of European inland shipping and river cruising. A dynamic, informal, and international working environment. The opportunity to work with leading shipping companies in European inland and river-cruise shipping sector. Significant room for initiative, innovation, and professional growth. Competitive employment conditions.  At Green Award, we believe our strength lies in people who bring curiosity, ownership, and fresh ideas. Interested? We’d love to hear from you. Send your CV and motivation (in English) to: secretariat@greenaward.org