Economic Geologist | Utrecht

The Geological Survey of the Netherlands, part of TNO, manages the national geological data infrastructure, maps the subsurface systematically in 3-D, provides technical and policy advice on subsurface use and its effects, and conducts applied geoscientific research. In response to the EU Critical Raw Materials Act and the Dutch Raw Materials Strategy TNO is mandated by the Dutch State to establish the Netherlands Materials Observatory (NMO), i.e., to design and implement this organisation providing raw materials intelligence. The NMO aligns well with the Survey’s current activities and capabilities in information management and dissemination and government advice, but it is also rooted in the broader expertise of TNO, like material flow accounting, secondary raw materials, and product and process design. With respect to primary mineral resources and their geological context, we are expanding our knowledge base and capabilities, complementing our extensive experience in hydrocarbons, geothermal energy, groundwater and construction materials.

As an economic geologist (e.g., exploration or mining geologist) you will help us to provide content to the NMO by extending our knowledge base to minerals and mineral systems, with a special focus on critical raw materials. You will contribute to an exploration program that considers the entire Kingdom. You will contribute to target generation exercises and prospectivity analyses for various mineral systems, aimed at understanding the mineral potential of the Dutch subsurface. You will contribute to advice regarding mineral occurrences in the Netherlands. You will help assessing the Netherlands’ strategic dependency on imports of raw materials by focusing on the geological perspective, provide geological context and project development rationale to potential mineral supply from third countries. You will contribute to economic geology as a discipline within TNO. You will help sharing knowledge with external stakeholders and the general public.

You are an economic geologist, with a background in mineral exploration, mining geology or relevant academic research, with ideally 4+ years of experience in industry or research.
You have a background in igneous or metamorphic petrology, geochemistry and/or structural/exploration geology or mining geology.
You have a strong affinity to contribute scientifically to the development of new methods and concepts for exploration geology.
You are eager to learn, analytic and a goal-oriented self-driven professional with an ability to deliver high quality results. You enjoy working in a multidisciplinary team of research fellows, industrial and academic partners and other stakeholders.
You have a pioneering mentality: you enjoy helping to build the NMO from scratch and have the people skills to get and keep it going.

In addition to that we desire:

• A PhD or master’s degree in Earth Sciences, with a focus on exploration/mining geology, minerals/commodities;
• 4+ years relevant work experience in industry or in an academic applied research environment, with the respective network;
• Ability to conduct minerals/mineral systems research according to industry best practices;
• Ability to plan and execute field campaigns and to evaluate and communicate field-based observations;
• Ability to build 3D static geological models through the integration of geological, geophysical and geochemical data;
• Awareness of industrial trends and technological developments in the field of mineral exploration and production;
• Awareness of the impact of critical raw material strategies around the world on mineral project development;
• Scientific mindset and the ambition to lead the development of new concepts and project ideas and the dissemination thereof;
• Excellent English communication and writing skills.

The ability to communicate in Dutch is an advantage. Also, affiliation with circular economy is a pre.

Besides offering a full time position (32-40 hours per week), TNO understands that every employee has different needs. TNO offers flexible terms of employment “a-la-carte”, in which you can exchange various terms of employment against each other on a monthly basis. With flexible working hours (e.g. 4x9 hours) and different leave arrangements you can create a package that serves your needs. TNO believes in the importance of both your personal and professional development. There are many possibilities to shape your own development: Conferences, educations, workshops, intervision and mentoring. At TNO you are in the lead of your own career.

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 € 3.226,- and € 5.703,- (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 our Talent Development Programme.
• Networking opportunities and great activities organized by Jong TNO.
• 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 31st of May, 2024. 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.