Mechnical Engineer | Petten

The Engineering team is part of the Sustainable Technologies for Industrial Processes (STIP) research group within TNO's Energy and Materials Transition (EMT) unit. The work of the Engineering team is strongly linked to the research fields of various groups within TNO, particularly at the Petten site. This means the group has gained vast experience in many technical fields. The group has all the capabilities to develop process plants or special equipment from idea to design, in close cooperation with scientists.

As a mechanical engineer, you’ll become part of our Engineering team. Using your technical expertise, within this team, you’ll work closely with researchers from various TNO research groups to develop the best process installations and/or special equipment, starting from an original early idea and ending with a final, working system. This often concerns first-of-a-kind designs, very different in nature and with a strong interdisciplinary character. As such, your work will be incredibly varied. In addition to working on mechanical-engineering issues, you’ll also be involved in preparing proposals, requesting and evaluating quotations, and selecting and requesting components externally. For example, for the development of a demonstration plant to produce ammonia from process gases of the steel industry.

You’re able to quickly delve into the specific issues of a project or design. Your goal-oriented, pragmatic approach enables you to generate practical results from mechanical-engineering issues. 
In addition, you’re able to act as sparring partner for researchers and come up with ideas and solutions for an optimal design. In doing so, you’re able to effortlessly switch between different tasks and projects, working together well with scientists on the one hand and your colleagues and suppliers on the other. The information you collect is summarized in clear, precise overviews, and progress reports. Finally, you work in a structured manner and, in doing so, contribute to the ongoing improvement of working and measuring methods. 

Other knowledge and skills you bring to TNO:

• A higher professional degree (HBO) in mechanical engineering.
• At least two years of work experience, enabling you to independently deliver detailed designs based on your own 3D designs, including their corresponding analytical FEM and/or MathCad contribution.
• You have experience working with Creo Elements Direct Modelling or are motivated to learn to do so.
• Experience with PED is considered an advantage.
• You possess good communication skills in Dutch (the language of suppliers and contractors) and in English (the working language in a considerable part of the workplace).

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 € 3.500,- and € 4.700,- (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 plus a flexible holiday (prorated) that can be used on a cultural, religious, or otherwise important day of your choosing.
• An employer working towards a respectful, inclusive, and equitable work environment where every employee can flourish, with various employee networks that foster connection and give advice.
• 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 or 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
• 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 3rd of May, 2026. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 11th of May, 2026. The second interview round has been scheduled for the 20th of May, 2026. 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.