Consultant Labour Market Innovations | Leiden

The Work Health Technology expertise group is looking for a Consultant in the field of Labour Market Innovation. You will simultaneously carry out various acquisition and consultancy projects in the areas of skills-based labour markets, lifelong learning, and data-driven working with skills. You will do this in close coordination with our subject matter researchers. You enjoy engaging with (large) organisations, social partners (such as industry and sector organisations), and government bodies about skills-based working and the development of staff and organisations. You are skilled at bridging research and practice and enjoy setting up joint research projects. You initiate and execute projects together with colleagues, in which complex political relationships may play a role, both nationally and internationally. You can translate client needs into research (and vice versa), establish, maintain, and strengthen collaborations, and write proposals and project plans. You also participate in research projects, excelling in areas such as collaboration and communication, organising/giving workshops with various stakeholders, and translating research results into practical applications and implications. You will further build your own network and acquire assignments, both with companies and with Dutch or European governments. You will work as part of a team to anticipate future (client) questions and knowledge development. You will coach juniors in their development. Together with colleagues, you form an enthusiastic team of professionals passionate about making social impact and implementing innovations in practice.

We are looking for a Consultant who recognises themselves in the following profile:

Background/Experience:

• You have an interest in and preferably experience with skills-based labour markets and the development of people and organisations. You are open to expanding your knowledge in this area;
• You have completed a higher professional (HBO) or university (WO) degree in a relevant field, such as social sciences or public administration (for example, economics, sociology, psychology, strategic HRM, business administration);
• Years of experience: 5–10 years.

Skills:

• You can connect people and knowledge, empathising with different perspectives from both science and practice. You know how to translate knowledge development into practical application and can turn client or partner challenges into research and innovation questions;
• You are capable of thinking systemically and outside the box. You approach issues from various angles and are not easily discouraged by resistance or obstacles;
• You collaborate well in multidisciplinary project teams, as demonstrated by strong social and (oral and written) communication skills with people in different roles and disciplines (see work environment) and your focus on collective interests;
• You are client- and result-oriented. You translate goals into concrete agreements. Together with clients and colleagues, you seek the best solutions and results. You know how to translate knowledge and innovations into practical applications for clients;
• You show initiative by proactively seeking opportunities both internally and externally and by being approachable and accessible. You contribute ideas and actively seek learning experiences and development opportunities;
• You have a good command of both Dutch and English.

This position can be filled either full-time (40 hours) or part-time (32 hours). The location is Leiden. The role can be performed in a hybrid manner.

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 € 4,500 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.

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 11th of January 2026. 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.

A certificate of Conduct (VOG) is required before starting a new job at TNO.