Software Engineer

Do you want to use your software skills to contribute to the safety of military personnel and the testing of weapon systems that truly matter? At TNO, you’ll work on advanced models and simulations that directly impact the effectiveness and protection within the defense domain. You’ll develop software based on real data from ballistic tests, translating complex physics into smart solutions that support and advance our armed forces. Make a difference where it truly counts — and help build the defense capabilities of today and tomorrow.

As a software developer in vulnerability and lethality analysis, you’ll join a team focused on modeling the vulnerability and lethality of defense systems — a crucial aspect for determining weapon system effectiveness. TNO has developed a specialized computational tool for this purpose: TARVAC (TARget Vulnerability Assessment Code), used to conduct vulnerability and lethality studies. Input for TARVAC is derived in part from experimental research carried out at our unique "Ballistic Research Laboratory", where live fire and explosive testing are conducted.
Together with clients and partners from the Ministry of Defence and the defense industry, you will contribute to the development and verification of TARVAC so it can be used to advise on vulnerability and lethality issues. Your focus will be on software development. Working closely with scientists and other software engineers, you’ll develop state-of-the-art software to model physical problems, analyze experimental data, and run simulations for evaluating the effectiveness of and protection against weapon systems.
Within project teams, you’ll be the driving force behind implementing models in the software — from idea to testing, documentation, and deployment. You’ll take into account the requirements, needs, and feedback from colleagues, clients, and partners. Additionally, you’ll advise colleagues on best coding practices, implementation of specific TARVAC modules, and automation of certain batch calculations.

In this role, you’ll be part of the Platform Protection & Advanced Materials (PPAM) department, which is part of TNO Defense, Safety & Security (DSS). The department has around 40 colleagues working on research into the effects of munitions on military vehicles, personnel, and infrastructure. We contribute to the development, usage advice, and evaluation of systems deployed by the Dutch armed forces. Both theoretical and experimental research is conducted within the department.

We’re looking for a colleague with an open and proactive attitude, who is curious and wants to contribute to generating simulation results that are highly relevant to end users. First and foremost, you’re a specialist in software design and development. You can translate user needs and requirements into concrete software specifications and innovative solutions. Alongside experience, you bring enthusiasm, creativity, strong communication skills, and a hands-on, pragmatic view of software development. Together with your team, you’ll help grow and refine these systems further.
You are socially and communicatively skilled. Since we work in teams on our development projects, it’s important that you take initiative, share your professional opinions, and ask questions when needed. You’re not afraid to take responsibility for results and your own growth. You also work in a structured way: you create frameworks for others, maintain clear documentation, and write understandable code. This ensures our software is maintainable and scalable.

You also bring:

• A completed university of applied sciences (HBO) or academic (WO) degree in a relevant technical field such as Software Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
• Experience with software system design.
• Experience with programming (e.g., C#, Python, MATLAB), geometric modeling (e.g., SolidWorks), reporting, and version control systems (e.g., GitLab, PDM).
• Proficiency in both Dutch and English (spoken and written) at a minimum B1 level.
• An affinity with the defense and security domain.

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 € 3.200,- and € 3.700,- (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.
• Access to our Talent Development Programme.
• Networking opportunities and great activities organized by Jong TNO.
• 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 June 16th. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on June 23rd and 24th, 2025. The second interview round still needs to be scheduled. 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.

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.