Research engineer

About this position

The chemical industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation toward a more sustainable future. This shift is driven by the integration of renewable energy and the increased use of biological and circular feedstocks.

Our team is at the forefront of this transition, developing advanced plasma technologies that play a crucial role in decarbonizing large-scale chemical processes. These innovations are essential for achieving climate targets and reshaping the long-term sustainability of the chemical industry by electrification of the chemical reactions.

To support this ambition, we are looking for a Research Engineer Plasma Chemistry. In this role, you will contribute to the development, optimization and operations of plasma processes that convert waste gases into value-added chemicals and fuels. The position is based at Brightlands Chemelot Campus in Geleen, where we pioneer the plasma technologies for large-scale chemical processes beyond the current state of the art.

What will be your role?

As Research Engineer, you will be part of the fast-growing plasma team. With the main research setups successfully commissioned, the focus is shifting towards continuous development, reliable operation, and scale-up. Ensuring robust daily operation and high experimental reliability is therefore of utmost importance in this role.

You will take ownership of the day to day operation of our plasma systems, ensuring stable, safe, and reliable performance. You will independently run and support experiments, proactively identify and resolve technical issues, contribute to improving process yield and long-term operational stability.

Working closely with scientists and project leaders, you will provide practical input to experimental design and translate research questions into executable experimental work. As the plasma systems evolve and scale up, you will actively support system upgrades and modifications. You will also create, maintain and improve process documentation, work instruction and best practices, while clearly documenting operational insights and experimental results.

What we expect from you

This role offers an ideal balance between autonomy and collaboration. You will work closely with TNO scientists, engineers, and partners, each bringing deep expertise in plasma technology. A critical, quality driven mindset and a structured way of working is essential, as is a proactive and collaborative attitude towards continuous improvement.

You also bring the following qualifications and skills:

• BSc in Chemical engineering.
• 10 years of relevant hands-on experience with experimental systems, preferably in plasma, high‑voltage, chemical processes.
• Ability to operate, monitor and troubleshoot complex lab equipment during extended and repeated runs.
• Experience with system optimization and process tuning.
• Practical knowledge of instrumentation, diagnostics, sensors, and control systems.
• Familiarity with scale-up challenges from lab to pilot-scale environments is a strong plus.
• Ability to collect, analyze, and evaluate experimental data.
• Structured, accurate and well organized approach to executing and reporting experimental research.
• Strong communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
• Safety-aware and comfortable working in high-power or technical lab environments.
• Well-organized, proactive, and effective in a dynamic R&D setting.

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 € 4,500 (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.

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 14th of June, 2026. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 25th of June, 2026. The second interview round has been scheduled for the 2nd of July, 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.