Lead Control Engineer | Delft or Eindhoven

Pushing the performance of high-tech instruments to their ultimate limits requires deep expertise in dynamics and control. Within the Optomechatronics group of TNO’s Unit High Tech Industry, we develop advanced optomechanical and mechatronic systems for extreme-performance applications in domains such as Space & Science instrumentation and Semiconductor Equipment.

To strengthen our multidisciplinary project teams, we are looking for a Lead Control Engineer. In this role, you are responsible for guiding and coordinating the control discipline within complex mechatronic development projects. You combine strong technical expertise with leadership capabilities to ensure that control performance targets are achieved within time and budget. The position can be based in Delft or Eindhoven, with flexibility to travel between both locations.

See more of the TNO Unit High Tech Industry and the Optomechatronics Group.

What will be your role?
As Lead Control Engineer, you take ownership of the control domain within advanced mechatronic projects. You lead a small team of dynamics and control specialists while remaining technically involved in the design and realization of high-performance control solutions.

You operate at the interface of system engineering, mechatronics, and partners across the value chain. Your focus is on translating system requirements into robust control strategies, safeguarding technical quality, and steering the team toward the desired performance results.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate a team of 2–3 dynamics and control specialists within complex space and semiconductor projects;
• Translate system-level requirements into control architecture, specifications, and implementation plans;
• Oversee dynamic modelling, control design, and performance validation of high-precision mechatronic systems;
• Guide the team in feedback control design and frequency-domain analysis to achieve extreme performance targets;
• Monitor project scope, planning, risks, and progress of the control discipline;
• Collaborate closely with system engineers, mechatronics engineers, and other project members;
• Interface with suppliers, partners, and customers, including defining hardware specifications and acceptance tests;
• Contribute technically where needed, including modelling, system identification, and controller development;
• Report progress, results, and improvement opportunities to internal and external stakeholders.

You are a technically strong and hands-on control engineer who enjoys both deep technical challenges and leading a small expert team in high-tech development environments.

You bring:

• An MSc degree and preferably a PhD in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Control;
• At least 5 years of relevant experience in control of high-precision mechatronic systems;
• Strong knowledge of dynamic behaviour of mechanical systems and motion control;
• Experience with dynamic modelling (lumped-mass and finite element) in mechatronic system design;
• Solid understanding of feedback control and frequency-domain analysis (e.g., Bode, Nyquist, spectral density);
• Experience with data-driven methods such as system identification, controller tuning, and performance evaluation;
• Ability to make realistic effort, planning, and cost estimates for control and mechatronics activities;
• Proven ability to lead technical specialists and coordinate multidisciplinary collaboration;
• Strong communication skills and the ability to motivate and align teams and stakeholders;
• A proactive, pioneering mindset and comfort working in technically uncertain environments;
• Willingness to travel between Delft and Eindhoven.

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 (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.

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.