About this position
At TNO, you will work within the Acoustics and Underwater Warfare division, where all our acoustic expertise comes together. Our department, Acoustic Sensor and Sonar Systems, focuses on a wide range of topics, from sonar applications and noise control to ultrasonic systems.We measure sound, model how it propagates through solids, water, and air, and develop advanced measurement concepts and data processing methods to extract meaningful information. We combine state-of-the-art sensors with smart data analysis for industrial applications, as well as for defense.
Examples include systems for:
- Detecting submarines.
- Securing seabed cables.
- Improving situational awareness.
You will collaborate with approximately 125 experts within this division, where sonar, acoustics, and underwater technology are central.
What will be your role?
As a project manager, you are responsible for delivering project results on time and within budget. Projects range from feasibility studies to prototypes. You will work on multiple projects simultaneously and switch between topics frequently.
You will:
- Develop a clear understanding of customer needs and project scope.
- Plan and organize research with technical and commercial experts.
- Lead project teams, monitor progress, and ensure a positive working environment.
- Act as a sparring partner for experts and a point of contact for clients.
- Support knowledge development and mentor junior colleagues.
- Ensure satisfied clients and high-quality results.
What we expect from you
You are a connector who successfully delivers projects from start to finish. You have experience in research environments and leading professionals. You listen well, ask the right questions, and communicate clearly with both clients and colleagues.
Additionally, you bring:
- A completed MSc degree in a relevant technical field (e.g., physics, electrical engineering, aerospace engineering).
- At least 3 years of experience as a project manager in a research environment.
- Excellent command of Dutch and English.
- Strong people management skills and resilience under pressure.
What you'll get in return
Challenging and varied work with a real impact. And plenty of opportunities as, at TNO, you are in charge of shaping your career. We offer a gross monthly salary between € 4,400 and €6,500 (based on your knowledge and experience), 8% holiday pay, a 13th month bonus of 8.33% and a flex budget (5.58% + € 180). In addition, you will be given every opportunity to develop yourself.
TNO offers optional employee benefits, enabling you to tailor your benefits package to match your personal situation. You may also expect:
- An extremely professional, innovative working environment where colleagues are leading experts in their field.
- The opportunity to attend courses, workshops and conferences, and to receive training and coaching based on your needs.
- 33 days annual leave plus a flexible holiday that can be used on a cultural, religious, or otherwise important day of your choosing (on a full-time basis).
- An employer working towards a respectful, inclusive, and equitable work environment where every employee can flourish, with various initiatives such as Jong TNO, numerous expertise based guilds, Rainbow Community and Round Tables on diverse inclusion topics.
- We offer a comprehensive and flexible mobility plan that also includes full compensation for public transportation for commuting and business travel.
- Great social events with your team and other TNO colleagues. That’s how you will get to know a lot of people really quickly.
- Flexible working hours, the possibility to work parttime (32 or 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
- Extensive relocation package for international candidates.
- A good pension scheme.
- Read more about tailoring your benefits package.
TNO as an employer
Our people are at the heart of TNO. Their curiosity, expertise and entrepreneurial mindset make it possible to deliver high-impact research and innovations that contribute to society’s sustainable wellbeing and prosperity. That is why we invest in an inspiring and inclusive working environment where colleagues can excel, have autonomy and continue to grow.
Your talent and ambition have every opportunity to flourish at TNO. You work with experts (both within and beyond TNO), have access to advanced technology and the freedom to explore, experiment and innovate. Our strength lies in independence, reliability and collaboration. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. By working with businesses and government, and by connecting different perspectives, we strengthen our innovative capability and create responsible, meaningful results.
At TNO, we believe this is our time to help society, government and business move forward faster. Together with driven colleagues, you turn knowledge into concrete innovations or ventures that truly make a difference by combining the power of science and entrepreneurship. And in doing so, you make your mark on our time.
The selection process
Please apply before the 25th of June, 2026. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 2nd of July, 2026. The second interview round has been scheduled for the 9th of July, 2026. In a final meeting we will discuss the terms of employment and your tailored benefits package. We aim to finalize the entire process within four weeks.
The selection process may include an online assessment and a reference check.
A certificate of Conduct (VOG) is required before starting a new job at TNO.
As you will be working for clients in the domain of defence and security, a Certificate of No Objection issued by AIVD (the Dutch General Intelligence and Security Service) is mandatory. This means you will have to undergo a security screening. Read more about security screening.
