Senior Systems Architect and Engineer | Delft / Hybrid

The TNO research group Optomechatronics develops high-end opto-mechanical and mechatronics systems for applications in the semiconductor industry, space instrumentation, Quantum and big science. With some 75 specialists, systems engineers and project managers, we develop working instrument prototypes to show how the technical challenges of our partners and customers can be solved. We push the limits of technology, to stimulate Dutch industry and enable scientific discovery.

In your role as System Architect and Engineer, you are the technical leader in multidisciplinary teams of specialists and are the technical 'conscience' in projects. To do this, you need to be creative and have a good understanding of the expertises you're working with; mainly optics, mechanics, and control engineering.

Your challenge lies in connecting all expertises involved in a project, and in shifting between detailed technical discussions and maintaining a helicopter view to make strategic project decisions. These decisions often have to be made on the basis of incomplete data, and therefore it's important that you are aware of the underlying technical and physical principles.

Your main contributions to the projects are in the conceptual phase for idea generation and design phase for budgeting, technical decisions and team steering, in close cooperation with the customer(s), subcontractor(s) and partner(s).

As system engineer you stay involved up to delivery to the customer, which requires the capability to manage the TNO team and their partners towards the desired performance results within time and budget constraints.

In addition, together with your colleagues you write project proposals for new paid assignments; you define topics for the TNO internal fundamental research and you mentor your younger colleagues.

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

To be successful in this role, you have:

• A masters or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics or another relevant specialization.
• At least 8 years of relevant experience in the design of (opto)mechatronic systems in a high tech environment.
• An understanding of control engineering and mechatronic system design.
• A thorough knowledge of optics and optical systems.
• Knowledge about sensors and actuators and the physical principles behind it.
• Experience with motivating, inspiring and convincing colleagues, project teams and customers, being able to steer your team members towards the result you have in mind.
• A critical mindset, eager to get to know what the customer demand is and willing to outdo their expectations together with your team.
• A pragmatic and creative attitude.
• Mastery of the English language, both in speech and in writing.

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 € 5570,00 and € 6987,00 (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 9th of June 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place in weeks 25 and 26, 2025. The second interview round has been scheduled for weeks 27 and 28, 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.

As you will be working for clients in the domain of defence and security, a Certificate of No Objection issued by AIVD (The Dutch General Information and Security Service) is mandatory. This means you will have to undergo a security screening. Read more about security screening.