Senior Project Leader Environment and Climate

Climate change, air quality, and the energy transition play a crucial role in influencing, shaping, and monitoring policy. To achieve good policy-making, it is necessary to gain insight into emissions, concentrations, and exposure of humans and the environment to gases and substances, both at regional, national, and international levels. Within the Environmental Modelling, Sensing & Analysis (EMSA) department, we work with (local) emission measurements, mobile measurement systems, and sensor networks. This allows us to monitor the concentrations and composition of various gases and particles in the atmosphere in real-time. Additionally, our advanced lab facility enables us to accurately determine exposure and chemical composition.

Together with the team, you will address questions such as: Gases and particles in the atmosphere, where do they come from? How do they form? Where do they settle? What are they composed of? What is the actual quantity? What is the impact of the composition on humans and the environment? To answer such questions, it is necessary to combine different disciplines. This includes, among other things, specialist fieldwork for on-site measurements, knowledge of various analysis techniques, and expertise in applying models for source determination, dispersion, and exposure. Additionally, it is important to accurately interpret and explain the results.

A wide range of stakeholders is usually involved: residents, companies, the municipality, the province, the European Union, etc. TNO seeks solutions for large and complex societal issues in project and consortium contexts. You lead these projects, communicate with stakeholders, and manage the various interests and expectations. You want to know the content, but project management is your core business. You facilitate and manage your project team and the ambitions of the team members; passionate scientists and technicians who sometimes want more than is realistically or contractually feasible. You bring the projects to a successful conclusion, ensure that we achieve impact, and you have an eye for the future: the continuation of the research line and a continuation of the flow of assignments.

Calmness, a helicopter view, facilitating ability, and strong communication. Additionally, flexibility and the ability to switch quickly are crucial. For example, whether a planned measurement campaign starts is usually dependent on weather conditions. This requires, in addition to a plan A, always a plan B (and sometimes a plan C). Of course, you do not do this alone, but in collaboration with the project team and the client(s): you are a team player. You manage the expectations of both internal and external stakeholders well, even when there is resistance. You stand firm.

What else do you bring?

• You have a university degree with a technical affinity.
• You have at least seven years of experience in leading and managing projects.
• You have a strong affinity with issues related to the environment, climate, and circular economy.
• You have good oral and written skills in Dutch and English.

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 € 5,761 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:

• A good pension scheme.
• We offer a comprehensive and flexible mobility plan that also includes full compensation for public transportation for commuting and business travel.
• An extremely professional, innovative working environment where colleagues are leading experts in their field.
• 33 days annual leave on a full-time basis.
• 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.
• The opportunity to attend courses, workshops and conferences, and to receive training and coaching based on your needs.
• An employer that values and encourages diverse talent, with initiatives like the Female Leadership Program, our Rainbow Community and round tables on inclusion topics.
• Access to TNO’s project managers guild: a network of some three hundred equals. The guild organizes workshops, conferences, intervision sessions and other activities for project managers.
• Extensive relocation package for international candidates.

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 August 31th, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on September the 10th, 2025. The second interview round has been scheduled for September 16th, 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.