Optical Designer | Delft

As an optical designer you will be involved in the design and execution of imaging and illumination optical systems. This process ranges from requirements discovery and budget allocation together with the System Engineer through paraxial and nominal design to a final, toleranced design with an accompanying alignment plan. The ability to perform straylight, polarization, diffraction and STOP (structural, thermal and optical performance) analyses is also essential to the role (although you are not yet expected to have this experience at the time of application). You will also be expected to assess critically the cost and complexity of your designs. You will regularly and intensively discuss results, progress, deviations and possible improvements with the team and the project manager.

In addition to projects using “classical” optics, there are also activities in the fields of microphotonics (using photonic integrated circuits, PICs) and nanophotonics (using metamaterials or other nanostructures). Knowledge and experience with physical optics modelling of wavelength-scale structures is important for these topics, however you are not expected to have experience in both “classical” and (sub)wavelength optics at the time of application, and you are free to share your preferences.

See more of the TNO Unit High Tech Industry and the Optics Group on the TNO website.

As an optical designer you will perform high-end optical tasks. For this role you will work a lot with colleagues from different disciplines. It is important that the stakeholders are kept up-to-date and that designs and analyses are carefully executed and documented. Given the key position of optical design in an optical instrument, a considerable level of creativity, autonomy, ingenuity and initiative is expected from you.

To be able to perform the role well, it is important that you recognize yourself in the following profile:

• Master’s degree in optics, photonics, (applied) physics, aerospace engineering, or electrical engineering with experience in relevant optical/photonics tasks.
• Affinity for complex optical systems and ambition to further develop in the optics field including AI and machine learning.
• Experience with optical design tools (e.g., Zemax, CodeV), and/or programming (Python, Matlab), and/or physical optics modelling (Lumerical, Comsol).
• Structured working style with attention to quality.
• Collaborative, eager to learn, result oriented, and strong in communication.
• Able to work effectively in English in an international environment.

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 € 3530,00 and € 4317,00 (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.
• 34 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.
• Access to our Talent Development Programme.
• Networking opportunities and great activities organized by Jong TNO.
• Extensive relocation package for international candidates.
• 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 22nd of March, 2026. The selection process comprises two interview rounds, firts one in weeks 13, 14 and 15. 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.