Aerospace Propulsion Engineer

About this position

In a world where access to advanced propulsion technologies is increasingly important for security and strategic autonomy, you will directly contribute to innovations that strengthen Europe’s technological capabilities. You will work on solutions that go beyond the drawing board and are actually developed, tested, and validated. Are you ready to help shape the next generation of aerospace propulsion technologies? Then we would love to hear from you.

What will be your role?

As an aerospace propulsion engineer, you will collaborate closely with the Aerospace Propulsion team to design and analyse key components and technologies of propulsion systems, including combustion chambers, air intakes, propellant and fuel formulations, gas generators and propellant feed systems. Working alongside experienced engineers and scientists, you will be involved in the full chain of technology development, from initial concept generation to prototype fabrication and performance evaluation. Your responsibilities will also include developing comprehensive test plans, selecting appropriate measurement techniques, and actively participating in the execution of tests in TNO’s Propulsion Test Facility. This will entail preparing experimental setups, conducting data acquisition, and performing post-test analyses of the test data. By actively participating in design and experimental work, you will help drive advancements in aerospace propulsion technologies within a multidisciplinary team. You will also present findings to stakeholders and collaborate on research publications.

You will become part of the Aerospace Propulsion (AP) team within the Department of Energetic Systems (ES). The department of Energetic Systems is dedicated to advancing research in energetic materials and their applications in both the defence and civilian domain. It manages all aspects related to energetic materials, including synthesis, production, processing, and characterization, as well as the analysis and design of associated systems. The department employs approximately 40 professionals with backgrounds in engineering, chemistry, and physics. The Aerospace Propulsion team, one of the department's specialized groups, focuses on developing innovative technologies for aerospace propulsion applications, such as rockets, ramjets, and rotating detonation engines. Comprised of approximately ten engineers and scientists, the team utilizes state-of-the-art modelling and simulation tools and test facilities to rigorously evaluate the propulsion technologies developed.

What we expect from you

We are looking for a highly motivated and dependable professional who enjoys working in a team-oriented setting. The ideal candidate will be able to handle their own tasks independently, make smart choices when planning tasks, and working within multiple projects at the same time. Dedication to developing creative technical solutions and contributing to a safer society is important. When unexpected challenges arise, you should be able to adapt quickly and collaborate with your team to find effective solutions. Strong attention to details and the ability to keep sight of big-picture project goals are both crucial.

You also bring:

• PhD or MSc in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, (applied) physics, or related field;
• Strong interest in aerospace and defence;
• Knowledge of (aero-)thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, combustion and aerospace propulsion.
• Candidates with limited domain-specific knowledge should have at least five years of relevant work experience in an engineering capacity;
• Experience with MATLAB and/or Python;
• Any prior exposure to designing and testing aerospace propulsion systems or components is appreciated, but not required;
• Any knowledge of the production process of solid rocket propellants and/or solid fuels would be considered advantageous, but is not mandatory.
• Excellent commandment of the Dutch and English language, both verbally and in writing (C1 level).

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 € 3,530 and € 6,884 (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 15th of October, 2026. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. 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.