Chemical Analyst / Thermal Analysis Specialist

As a Chemical Analyst / Thermal Analysis Specialist within the Munitions Technology department, you play a crucial role in performing and interpreting research, and advising on studies related to energetic materials (propellants, explosives, and pyrotechnic compositions) and thermal analysis techniques. You combine in-depth laboratory expertise with client-oriented consultancy and actively contribute to the development and improvement of research processes.

In this role, you independently and accurately perform analyses using a broad set of techniques, especially HFC, TGA and DSC, as well as additional methods such as DMA, TMA and SEM-EDX. You work in modern laboratories where you don't focus on a single technique, but instead apply a wide variety of analytical methods.

Your responsibilities cover the full trajectory from client request to technical advice:

• Discussing and clarifying research questions with clients.
• Designing, performing and documenting analyses.
• Reporting results and providing well-founded technical advice.
• Acting as a technical consultant for internal and external stakeholders.

Additionally, you will:

• Maintain and manage laboratory equipment.
• Contribute to the implementation of new analytical techniques and methods.
• Ensure quality assurance, chemical inventory management, lab space coordination, and process optimisation.
• Coordinate various laboratory tasks and plan short- and long-term activities.
• Provide training and courses in the field of thermal analysis, actively applying your didactic skills.
• Travel to clients for meetings, consultation, support or clarification of research results. This may involve worldwide travel for periods of 1–2 weeks, on average around six times per year.

In this role, you are given the opportunity to deepen your technical expertise, develop further in thermal analysis, and simultaneously make a direct contribution to high quality research projects. You combine research, consultancy and quality management in one impactful and versatile position.

In this role, we are looking for someone who is communicative and a true team player. You have strong didactic skills and feel comfortable delivering trainings and courses. You are flexible and able to work independently, and you have no difficulty with international travel when needed. Outside of these trips, you will spend most of your time working in the laboratory, performing regular test activities — and this is something that energizes you as well.

You are customer‑oriented and able to translate research questions into clear, actionable analyses. In addition, you have a strong sense of quality and a genuine interest in process improvement. You collaborate effectively across different cultures and switch effortlessly between laboratory work, consultancy tasks, and international client interactions.

A completed higher professional education (HBO) degree in chemistry, supplemented with at least 5 years of relevant work experience.

• Experience in thermal analysis (HFC/TGA/DSC), SEM and other material or elemental analysis techniques.
• A strong sense of quality and an interest in process improvement.
• Skills in managing quality systems and laboratory processes.
• Strong command of both 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 € 4,000,- and € 5,000,- (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 plus a flexible holiday (prorated) that can be used on a cultural, religious, or otherwise important day of your choosing.
• 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.
• 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 the 5th of April, 2026. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The first interview will be held on April 9th and the second interview on April 14th. 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 Intelligence and Security Service) is mandatory. This means you will have to undergo a security screening. Read more about security screening.