Program Manager Optical Wireless Communication | Eindhoven

Due to a need for ever increasing data communication in a fast, secure and safe manner, optical wireless communication is getting a lot of traction worldwide. As this technology gets more and more deployed via laser satcom and lifi, there is a growing need for miniaturisation and mass manufacturing, leading to a transition from discrete components to use of integrated photonic chips.Taking the lead in the development and production of such devices, TNO, University of Twente and Eindhoven University of Technology, and PhotonDelta have joined forces in the Photonic Integration Technology Center (PITC). As program manager working you will be working in the heart of the Dutch ecosystem, you will help leading players in this industry to meet their R&D goals.

Learn more about PITC

What will you be doing?
Your daily activities will be varied, as you will lead a multidisciplinary team executing the Optical Wireless Communication Program in collaboration with our company partners. Your responsibilities will include program management, technical project leadership, and support for business development. You will also be involved in operational tasks, such as planning and implementing new infrastructure to support the associated R&D activities. Additionally, you will build and maintain a network to engage in national and EU-funded projects and attract new partnerships.

You will join our 30+ researchers, process engineers, equipment engineers, system architects, designers and programme managers at PITC. We are an internationally diverse team of professors, MScs, PhDs and postgraduates sharing the ambition to build-up a technology base on integrated photonics in Europe and connect with the rest of the world. Our highly sophisticated nano labs are equipped with world-leading indium phosphide, silicon nitride and heterogenous integration platforms. As we are a partner in PhotonDelta, you will also join this unique integrated photonics ecosystem. We foster an open, supportive and highly innovative atmosphere, in which we combine knowledge-sharing with fun events. Moreover, we empower you to evolve and develop your career. 

What we expect from you:

• Further mature the technical and market roadmap for the Optical Wireless Communication Program at TNO/PITC.
• Gain further market traction for the program leveraging the R&D towards tangible business for PITC partners.
• Technical project lead of (selected) complex multi-stakeholder projects.
• Support the technical program roadmap and projects by (i) translating relevant state-of-art research topics into experimental plans and their execution together with the team members, and (ii) writing and execution funded projects in both National and European context.
• Lead and contribute to the generation of results that are patentable, publishable in renowned journals/conferences, and/or marketable to PITC customers.
• Lead and work in a multidisciplinary, multi-company team, supervising and coaching of team members and students.

You are enthusiastic about shaping and expanding a promising new application domain. You bring several years of experience in research and development across various settings, covering both programmatic and operational aspects. You have hands-on experience in battery technology development, and ideally also in optical communication and/or integrated photonics.

We are looking for someone with the following qualifications and experience:

• A PhD in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• At least five years of post-PhD experience in R&D, specifically in optical communication, preferably with a link to integrated photonics.
• Strong market- and customer-oriented mindset when it comes to research and development programmes.
• A proven ability to organize, structure, and manage activities and people to achieve defined goals – for example, in managing a project portfolio, leading a team of scientists/engineers, or overseeing complex customer projects.
• A hands-on mentality, sense of responsibility, and the ability to organize and execute projects efficiently in a collaborative environment.
• Excellent communication skills in English, with the ability to effectively engage with a wide range of stakeholders.

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.
• 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 2nd of June, 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.