Electrical Engineer | The Hague

We’ve become increasingly accustomed to information being accessible to us everywhere and at all times. This applies to us on a personal level, but also to private-sector organisations and public authorities.
Although these ubiquitous information and communication facilities have simplified our lives, they’ve also made us highly dependent on their underlying systems. Without reliable communication facilities, processes can be disrupted, potentially resulting in vital parts of society grinding to a halt.

Recent conflicts have revealed how these vulnerabilities can be exploited to cause chaos or gain operational advantages. In military actions, information advantages are crucial to success, which is why there is a great dependence on C2ISR (Command and Control, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance), and its underlying systems. Since wireless communication and radio systems are important parts of military actions, the importance of electronic warfare is also on the rise. Dominance in the electromagnetic spectrum will always be sought.

Our team of electrical engineers, physicists, and mathematicians is working on innovations aimed at developing situational awareness by observing behaviour in the electromagnetic (EM) spectrum, recognising and mitigating the vulnerabilities of one’s own systems, and developing measures to influence opponents’ systems through the EM spectrum. We mainly work for clients within the defence, police, and justice sectors. We collaborate with national and international partners in multidisciplinary projects, on scientific panels, and in NATO working groups. Read more about Electronic Warfare here.

What will you be doing?

As an electrical engineer, you’ll work on innovative and challenging projects, mainly for Defence and the domains of public order and safety. Your role will be to work with
a project team using research and innovations to help our clients find solutions to their operational issues. These issues concern the electromagnetic spectrum and the signals it contains, particularly from communication systems and wireless connections. An example could be picking up signals from the electromagnetic spectrum and analysing them to map out enemy communications to derive information about the behaviour (or intentions) of an opponent.

In addition to this ‘electronic surveillance’ of the spectrum, active capabilities – the researching and developing of techniques to disrupt, manipulate, or falsify signals in the spectrum – also feature strongly. These capabilities are used to protect against threats, which could include remotely-detonatable roadside bombs or drones that could pose a safety threat. Using our knowledge of the signals in the electromagnetic spectrum and the techniques that can be used to manipulate them, we’re able to develop cyber actions through wireless connections. This knowledge area – Cyber Electromagnetic Activities (CEMA) – is what you’ll be contributing your knowledge to.

Additionally, you’ll research analytical methods to understand wireless (civilian and military) communication protocols, intercept information, manipulate signals, exploit vulnerabilities, and locate transmitters. You’ll do this by intelligently making use of modern methods and techniques in the field of signal and protocol analysis, machine learning, digital-signal processing, simulation, system implementation (Software Defined Radio), and software tooling.

Supported by your own expertise, you’re able to work within a team on solutions and innovations. In addition, you possess the highly developed analytical and communication skills needed to collaborate with fellow experts and communicate results to clients. On top of this, you’re flexible, pragmatic (when necessary), and inquisitive. You’re also able to quickly switch between tasks and set clear priorities. You’ll work on different subjects and projects at the same time, while always keeping an eye on their operational application.

Other knowledge and skills you bring to TNO:

• You have an MSc in electrical engineering or information engineering (e.g. in telecommunications and sensing systems, wireless communication and sensing, signals and systems, or connected world technologies).
• You have proven knowledge of and work experience with wireless communication systems and telecommunication protocols.
• You’re familiar with the functional elements in the transmission and reception chain of modern wireless communication systems, and know how to link the theory to its practical implementation in hardware and software.
• You have experience with Software Defined Radio (SDR) and developing applications with this technology.
• Knowledge and experience of embedded computing and FPGA technology is an advantage, as are programming skills in Python, C/C++, and Matlab.
• A basic understanding of Radio Frequency (RF) techniques and electronics will also be valuable for this position.
• Since much of the work is international by nature, it’s important that you have a good spoken and written command of English (and preferably also of Dutch).

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.

Perhaps you would like to grow your career in the direction of commerce or consultancy? Or would you like to become a project manager? Immerse yourself in sustainable innovations? Or carve out a career as a technical expert?

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 on a full-time basis.
• An employer that values and encourages diverse talent, with initiatives like the Female Leadership Program, our Rainbow Community and round tables on 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 of 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.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity and inclusion.

Please apply before 19th of February, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on 27th of February, 2025 (in the afternoon). 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 Good 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 Information and Security Service) is mandatory. This means you will have to undergo a security screening. Read more about security screening.