Project Manager Space Systems Engineering | Delft / Hybride

Emerging space-related technologies may hold the key to solving many of the societal challenges we face today. Encrypting communications, for example. Exploring the universe. Monitoring greenhouse gases. As a project manager Space Systems Engineering at the Netherlands’ leading research organisation, you can bring about profound change on our planet (and beyond). At TNO, we’re always reaching for the stars, exploring further than what’s considered possible. Based in Delft, you’ll be part of an organisation that isn’t out to make a profit but instead uses innovation to help mankind take its next giant leap forward, one innovative step at a time. And with this also stimulating the Dutch economy.

As a project manager at TNO Delft, you’ll be responsible for ensuring that technology development projects are delivered on time and within budget, meeting the project goals with high quality. This can be space or ground based optical / opto mechatronic systems. You can expect a variety of projects that are on the edge of what’s technically possible today. Best of all, your work will rarely be repetitive. Our projects are always innovative, always technically complicated, always changing and always challenging, with plenty of room for creativity.

You’ll manage multidisciplinary project teams of scientists, developers and engineers as well as stakeholders in complex international coalitions. Typical customers will include existing partners in the institutional market and, increasingly, commercial businesses who enter the market for ground-based astronomy, satellite communication and earth observation. Partners may include manufacturing companies (involved in the production of instruments), large mission primes (satellite integration) and universities that help TNO to do basic research. You will work alongside the TNO Space Business Development Team, which is responsible for the commercial acquisition of projects. Proposal writing and travelling internationally are part of your job too. You’ll enjoy the benefits of hybrid working.

See more about the TNO High Tech Industry Unit and the Space Systems Engineering group.

A proven track record managing complex projects and teams within the space domain or relevant area’s. You have a finely-tuned political antenna and the ability to communicate on a strategic level with challenging partners. Though never rigid, you have strong communication skills and are sharp, structured and pragmatic. You thrive when dealing with projects that have a lot of uncertainties due to the complex scientific problems we tackle at TNO and the unique nature of our work.

Other knowledge and skills you bring to TNO:

• A higher professional education (HBO/BSc.) or university (WO/MSc.) degree in a technical discipline.
• At least 7 years of project management experience in the space domain or other similar relevant areas.
• Experience in working with different type of stakeholders such as space agencies (ESA, NASA) and (international) organizations.
• Experience in working with industry, able to understand their needs and fine tune our project pace to the high demands of the field.
• Affinity with innovation and research.
• Ability and interest to develop new ways of working to ensure projects can be executed with short turnaround times.
• Excellent written- and oral communication skills
• Working experience with Project Management methodologies .(IPMA, PMP, Prince2) is a plus.

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 € 4.500,- and € 5.900,- (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 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.
• Access to TNO’s project managers guild: a network of some three hundred equals. The guild organizes workshops, conferences, intervision sessions and other activities for project managers.
• 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 25th of May 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place in weeks 23 and 24. The second interview round has been scheduled for weeks 25 and 26. 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.