Project Leader Optics | Delft / Hybrid

Contributing to optical solutions for a healthier, safer, more sustainable and digital world. Envision it. Become a Project Leader at TNO in Delft! High-quality optical systems are designed and fabricated at TNO for space-based atmospheric monitoring, optical satellite communication, medical devices, quantum technologies, structural health monitoring and instrumentation for the semiconductor industry. This work is for a wide range of customers including Airbus, NASA, ESA, Rijkswaterstaat and many SMEs, and for projects such as the Sentinel 5 global air quality monitoring satellite and ITER.

As a Project Leader in the Optics department you will guide the development and realisation of optical systems. These systems range in size from very large telescopes to tiny photonic integrated circuits (PICs) on a microchip. You will work together with business development colleagues to bring in new projects, and when implementing projects you will be responsible for delivering high quality results to a satisfied customer on time and within budget, whilst maintaining a good atmosphere in the project team and paying attention to the wellbeing of the team members. For the implementation of projects you will work together with teams from within the 60 specialists from the Optics Department, as well as with colleagues from other departments across the whole of TNO.

See more of the TNO Unit High Tech Industry and the Optics Group.

As a project leader you will be responsible for a number of different projects within the Optics department. To properly perform the role, it is important that you recognize yourself in the following profile:

• A background in applied physics, chemistry, materials science or engineering at least at Bachelor’s level.
• At least 3 years of experience as a project leader in the high tech industry.
• Have affinity with the optics industry and technology.
• Can clearly anticipate, understand and take into account the customer’s perspective and translate this into appropriate actions for yourself and the team.
• Able to motivate and guide a team of technical experts to achieve top results together.
• Keep calm in a dynamic environment, work in a structured way and are used to managing multiple projects at the same time.
• Have strong communication skills (with optics specialists, project leaders, management, business developers and customers) and are able to communicate fluently in English.

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 (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.
• 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 the 5th of January, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place in weeks 3 and 4. The second interview round has been scheduled for weeks 5 and 6. 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.