MAIT Engineer | Delft

Aerospace plays a vital role in the daily life of everyone on Earth. Satellites for communication, navigation and observation, as well as their innovative information systems, terminals and high-tech instruments, are becoming a unique part of our planet's infrastructure. TNO works together with partners, subcontractors and clients from the European industrial sector and with sister institutes at home and abroad. Projects we work on have are typically firm fixed price offerings and generally fall within the European space policy that is managed by ESA, the European Space Agency. The project size varies from €500k to € 25Mln, and typically run for several years.

The Space Systems Engineering expertise group of TNO develops and supplies opto-mechatronic instruments and systems for space technology, ground-based astronomy and scientific research. The requirements for these systems are generally on the limits of what is technically feasible. The realization of such an instrument therefore requires a solid project organization, in which experts in the field of optics, mechatronics, manufacturing and testing must work together in multidisciplinary teams to achieve the desired result.

For our Space Systems Engineering department we are looking for a MAIT Engineer with fine electrical and mechanical dexterity. In this role you are working in complex projects for developing and creating optomechanical instruments for space and scientific applications. Within the projects, you will help develop, assemble and integrate components of these instruments in a cleanroom or laboratory environment. Because you and your colleagues are constantly trying to make the seemingly impossible possible, it takes a lot of your creativity to create a pragmatic and precise procedure for things that have never been done or developed before. You will be solving complex puzzles on a daily basis. Due to this, you can put your personal mark on the projects and really make a difference.

You will be involved with projects from start to finish. Starting with involvement in design, looking at manufacturability and testability followed by procurement and inspection of materials and parts until delivery of the product to the customer. In these aspects of the job, you can also put your own signature on the projects. We value colleagues that show initiative in thinking outside the box in order to come up with new solutions, ways of working or pragmatic processes.

Furthermore, your daily activities include:

• Assembly and integration of components of an opto-mechanical instrument and the optomechanical instrument itself in a clean room or laboratory environment, at TNO or occasionally at external on-site locations.
• For a large part of activities Standard Operating Procedures or project specific procedures are applicable. The MAIT engineer ensures these SOP’s are followed, and that it is registered these SOP’s are followed.
• Ordering materials and parts at suppliers, on instruction of the MAIT manager, including incoming inspection at delivery.
• Logistics and administration of parts and materials.
• Preparation and execution of specific verification tests, at TNO or occasionally at external on-site locations.
• Input to the MAIT planning.
• Knowledge of design and manufacturing of electrical components and equipment including the assembly of cable harnesses, eq soldering and crimping according to specific certification is a big advantage.
• The MAIT engineer also contributes to the quality, efficiency and cohesion of the MAIT team and TNO in general.

See more of the TNO Unit High Tech Industry and the Space Systems Engineering Group.

Because we are working on cutting edge technology in a high demanding environment, we are always pushing the limits of technology. We are looking for a driven and passionate colleague to join our team. Furthermore, you recognize yourself in most of the points stated below.
You have:

• A technical education on vocational level (MBO) in, preferably electrical engineering or manufacturing, aerospace - or mechanical engineering;
• A minimum of 3 years relevant experience as an MAIT/ AIV Engineer or instrument manufacturer;
• Common sense and straight forward approach when looking at technical challenges;
• Experience with working in cleanrooms and perception of cleanliness levels for optomechanical parts;
• Experience with soldering, crimping and inspection according the ECSS or IPC standards (preferably);
• Experience with testing of assemblies and or instruments (preferably);
• Experience in working with CAD (preferably);
• Understanding of the English and Dutch language;
• Ability to work in multidisciplinary teams.

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, equity and inclusion.

Please apply before the 19th of December, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. 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.