Senior Project Manager Modelling and Simulation | The Hague

We are looking for Senior Project Managers Modelling and Simulation at TNO in The Hague, for a number of socially relevant projects within the defense domain. The resulting innovations will be diverse, but they will all have one thing in common: an impact on peace and security worldwide. For example, how would you feel about modelling a complete air and missile defence system? Or about building a 3D scale model based on map and satellite information? Another project might involve developing decision support tools to advise a commander on viable and promising options for a mission.

As Senior Project Managers you will be working for the Modelling and Simulation department within the unit Defence, Safety and Security (DSS) at TNO. Working with several multidisciplinary teams, you will realise project deliverables on time and within budget. You will bring together the specific research needs of commissioning parties in the defence domain with the knowledge of your colleagues. As you will need to know exactly what expertise you need from your department, other TNO units, partners, and the client, you will quickly need to build a network both inside and outside TNO. You will present commissioning parties with a project plan, giving them confidence in the feasibility of the endeavour. That is when your challenge really begins: delivering results with your team, while at the same time strengthening our knowledge base. You are proactive in taking on tasks. The best compliment you can receive? When a commissioning party asks you to handle a new project!

But what we must not forget are the people: you indicate what you expect from people, give them regular feedback and feedforward on both tasks and behavior, and give them the opportunity to further develop themselves with you. Initially, you give them the space to solve bottlenecks themselves and intervene if necessary.

We strive for results in an inclusive culture where we are open, talk and listen, and look out for each other. We work together towards shared goals, across disciplines and departments, we encourage diversity, and we learn from each other's experiments and ideas. This brings our research and innovation to the frontline.

You will be working in TNO’s Defence, Safety and Security unit and in the Mission Simulation and Training research group: a diverse team of around 35 dedicated and committed experts. Together with other TNO research groups, the public sector, industry, and the business community, you will create innovations that contribute to a safer world, both physically and digitally. Examples include developing a training simulator for operating a 60 mm Mortar or contributing to important standardisation for simulations at NATO level. And that is just the tip of the iceberg. Our research group has all kinds of things to offer you.

We work on both long- and short-term projects, at national and international levels. Strong communication skills in both Dutch and English are therefore essential. Together, we’ll determine where your strengths can best flourish.
Given the nature of the work, you must be comfortable handling sensitive information. You’ll also be part of a larger team: we have multiple project leaders, and as a senior, we expect you to share your knowledge and expertise in a structured and constructive manner.
In addition, we aim to establish strategic lines of work to which various projects contribute. This means that, at times, you may need to weigh project-specific interests against broader organizational goals.

What else you bring:

• More than ten years of relevant work experience as a project manager in a complex stakeholder environment and multidisciplinary teams.
• Completed technical education at HBO or WO level, or demonstrable affinity with the technical domain, as evidenced by previous work experience.
• Interest in the defense domain.
• Experience with, or strong affinity for, the field of modeling and simulation.

Do you think you are the right person for this position? We encourage you to apply, even if you do not fully meet all the job requirements.

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 € 5.671,- and € 7.692,- (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 the 29th of June, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place in week 28 (7th till 11th of July), 2025. The second interview round will be scheduled later on. 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.