Medior Scientist Underwater Operations | The Hague

Develop software to predict the performance of the latest sonar systems? Plan and evaluate operations with underwater drones? Join TNO as scientist underwater operations! Since the invasion in Ukraine the world is seeing a new geopolitical reality and is becoming more and more unpredictable. Our society, politics, armed forces and knowledge institutes need to act quickly. As a knowledge institute, TNO plays a crucial role with approximately 1000 highly educated people working on innovations for Defence, Safety and Security. We contribute actively to a safer world, both at a national and European level. The division Acoustics and Underwater Warfare unites all of TNO’s acoustic expertise and works mainly for the Royal Netherlands Navy. The Underwater Operations and Seabed Security department focuses on research and development on autonomous underwater systems, mostly for military applications. Examples are detecting and countering naval mines, planning and evaluating missions with networked autonomous underwater and surface drones, standoff anti-submarine warfare operations, underwater communication and the protection of critical infrastructure on the seabed. We develop state-of-the art acoustic sensor systems, including sophisticated data processing algorithms for visualization and information extraction to create situational awareness. We add a high level of system autonomy to enable deployment of our technology on unmanned underwater systems. Additionally, we model to predict the expected performance against threats under various operational conditions.

As a scientist, you will typically be active in multiple applied research and development (R&D) projects to develop solutions for our customers. You cooperate with other highly motivated scientists of your team. You will participate in multiple projects, each having their own team, and no two projects are the same, so expect lots of opportunities to develop yourself further.

Your activities will include (a subset of) the following, depending on your background and preferences:

• Understanding the use of systems in the underwater domain;
• Development of tooling for trade-off analyses;
• Conducting trade-off analyses in support of materiel selection for procurement and operational use;
• Research into optimizing planning, simulation and evaluation of missions with autonomous underwater drones and increasing the level vehicle autonomy;
• Developing or improving (sonar) processing algorithms for detection of enemy targets;
• Modelling and simulation of acoustics and performance prediction of sensor systems;
• Designing, setting up and carrying out experimental measurements at sea;
• Reporting and presenting results.

If you like working in teams and are looking for a job that is meaningful to society, this job offers you lots of variation, and will challenge you as a scientist.

Besides being passionate about the work we carry out, you recognise yourself in the following profile:

• You have a MSc or PhD in a technical field, such as (applied) physics, astronomy, (electrical) engineering, computer science, mathematics, operations research, or geophysics;
• You have at least 3 to 5 years experience with research in projects;
• You have experience with developing software in MatLab, Python and/or C++;
• You are proactive and assertive. You feel responsible for the end result and make sure things get done;
• You are a creative problem solver, result-oriented, analytic and have a clear and convincing communication style;
• You are able to work on different levels of abstraction;
• You have a clear affinity with applied R&D. Experience with signal processing and algorithm development is an advantage;
• You are able to work in an international and military context, such as in European or NATO projects;
• You are open to broaden your view, eager to learn, and willing to help others to do the same.

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 € 4,200,- and € 6,500,- (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.

Perhaps you would like to grow your career in the direction of commerce or consultancy? Or would you like to become a project manager? Immerse yourself in sustainable innovations? Or carve out a career as a technical expert?

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 22nd of May, 2024. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 28th of May, 2024. The second interview round has been scheduled for the 4th of June, 2024. 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 Good 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.