Management Assistant - Solar Technologies & Applications

Contribute to the sustainable energy of tomorrow. Within the Energy & Materials Transition (EMT) unit, we are looking for a Management/Department Assistant to support the Solar Technologies & Applications (STA) research group. At STA, we work on innovative solar energy solutions and how to apply them in the built environment, on land, and on water. We collaborate closely with the Solar Energy research group in Petten. Together, we share various office and experimental facilities. As a Management/Department Assistant, you support both the Research Manager and the Deputy Research Manager, and you work closely with the management assistant of the research group in Petten. You are the central hub of a team of around 45 colleagues: always ready to help, proactive, and supportive, also in project-related tasks.

Your role is highly varied: throughout the day, you switch between tasks and assess where your support is most needed. You are the backbone of the group, ensuring that all processes run smoothly and in an organized manner. You manage the calendars of the Research Manager and Deputy Research Manager when needed, schedule meetings, take minutes during group and management meetings, and take overall responsibility for the department’s organizational matters.
You’ll handle a wide range of administrative and secretarial tasks, such as acting as the first point of contact for the group, organizing and preparing meetings, catering, events, and team outings, processing documents for signature, formatting documents in line with TNO templates, managing orders and purchase requests, supporting administrative processes in project systems, and assisting with onboarding new employees.

You often stay one step ahead of the (Deputy) Research Manager and your colleagues by planning and prioritizing effectively. You’re proactive, but also take the time to think things through before acting. You see what needs to be done and easily shift between different tasks. And if something isn’t feasible? You communicate this clearly and honestly.

To be successful in this role, you should meet the following profile:

• A completed MBO-4 level education, preferably in management assistance, secretarial support, or administration. A working and thinking level equivalent to HBO is welcome.
• Excellent communication skills in both Dutch and English (spoken and written).
• Strong digital skills and experience with relevant software systems, management systems, and digital workflows (e.g., MS Office, SAP, Export Control, SRM).
• A genuine interest in people, enabling you to provide thoughtful support to TNO colleagues.
• A collaborative mindset and approachable attitude.
• Key competencies include: organizational awareness, creativity, flexibility, accuracy, and, of course, proactivity.
• Availability of 32 to 40 hours per week.

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 € 2.900 and € 4.000 (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:

• A good pension scheme.
• Travel allowance.
• An extremely professional, innovative working environment where colleagues are leading experts in their field.
• 28 days annual leave and 5 compensation days under the reduction in working hours scheme (ATV, arbeidstijdverkorting) on a full-time basis.
• 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 and the possibility of working from home.
• The opportunity to attend courses, workshops and conferences, and to receive training and coaching based on your needs.
• Access to our Talent Development Programme.
• Networking opportunities and great activities organized by Jong TNO.

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 the 27th of April, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 13th and 14th of April, 2025. 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.