Operations Research Specialist

About this position

Do you want to contribute to the safety of the Netherlands by optimizing the tactical use of underwater vessels? Then come and work at TNO as an Operations Research Specialist in the Under Water Warfare domain! As an Operations Research Specialist at TNO, you work at the intersection of technology, science and defence. You will contribute to technical-scientific research projects that help the Ministry of Defence – and in particular the Navy – to deploy their resources with maximum effect. Think of anti-submarine warfare, protection of critical undersea infrastructure, torpedo defence and sea mine warfare. You will help to design, optimize and evaluate tactics that give our navy a strategic advantage – now and in the future. Together with your colleagues, you look across the field to determine what the best deployment is in various scenarios, taking into account realistic system properties, preconditions and uncertainties. You will issue advice on this that will have an impact on the work of military units, policymakers and politicians, both nationally and internationally.

What will be your role?

As an Operations Research Specialist at TNO, you will work in a dynamic environment in which technology, simulation, data and defence come together. You will be part of the Underwater Operations & Seabed Security department and your role will focus specifically on the underwater domain. You will work closely with experts, analysts and developers from other departments, in particular with other operations research specialists who are looking at the deployment above water. You will actively contribute to the further development of this discipline within TNO Defence and Security.

You will develop and analyse tactical concepts for underwater operations using mathematical models in order to assess their effectiveness. You will apply Operations Research methods such as optimization, simulation, statistical analysis and game theory. You think ahead about future threats and required resources: what sensors, platforms and weapons are needed to remain effective in a rapidly changing underwater environment? For this, you work together with experts in the field of sonar, sensors and weapon platforms. In this way, you will make a direct contribution to the operational capabilities of the Navy and the safety of the Netherlands.

What we expect from you

In addition to being enthusiastic about the work we do, you will recognize yourself in the following profile:

1. At least a university master's degree in preferably operations research, econometrics, systems and control, mathematics, (applied) physics or another relevant field.
2. You can connect the abstract models with hands-on applications and explain this as well. Relevant experience with the underwater domain, in applied experimental environments and with wargaming or tactical evaluation are plus points.
3. You have experience with relevant programming languages such as MATLAB and Python. You can abstract the operation of systems and convert them into models and algorithms.
4. Excellent command of the Dutch and English language in word and writing.

What you'll get in return

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 € 4,800,- (based on your knowledge and experience), 8% holiday pay, a 13^th 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 plus a flexible holiday that can be used on a cultural, religious, or otherwise important day of your choosing (on a full-time basis).
• An employer working towards a respectful, inclusive, and equitable work environment where every employee can flourish, with various initiatives such as Jong TNO, numerous expertise based guilds, Rainbow Community and Round Tables on diverse 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 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.

TNO as an employer

Our people are at the heart of TNO. Their curiosity, expertise and entrepreneurial mindset make it possible to deliver high-impact research and innovations that contribute to society’s sustainable wellbeing and prosperity. That is why we invest in an inspiring and inclusive working environment where colleagues can excel, have autonomy and continue to grow.

Your talent and ambition have every opportunity to flourish at TNO. You work with experts (both within and beyond TNO), have access to advanced technology and the freedom to explore, experiment and innovate. Our strength lies in independence, reliability and collaboration. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. By working with businesses and government, and by connecting different perspectives, we strengthen our innovative capability and create responsible, meaningful results.

At TNO, we believe this is our time to help society, government and business move forward faster. Together with driven colleagues, you turn knowledge into concrete innovations or ventures that truly make a difference by combining the power of science and entrepreneurship. And in doing so, you make your mark on our time.

The selection process

Please apply before the 3rd of May, 2026. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 12th of May, 2026. The second interview round has been scheduled for the 17th 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.

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.