Systems Engineer Defence

About this position

Are you passionate about technology and eager to contribute to projects that make a real difference to society? Join the Advanced Computing Engineering (ACE) team, focused on Defence, as a Technical Consultant. In this role, you will work on innovative IT solutions for Defence and support initiatives in Enterprise Architecture, system design, and data-driven projects.

If you have broad technical interests, strong analytical skills, and can communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical colleagues, this could be an excellent opportunity for you.

What will be your role?

You will contribute to the design and implementation of software architectures based on open standards and support Enterprise Architecture across business, data, and technology domains. Working closely with senior architects and project managers, you will help align technical solutions with both business and technical requirements within the Defence sector.

You will also participate in research and development projects, including the development of proof-of-concept software and the execution of system integration activities. In addition, you will document technical solutions and prepare reports for stakeholders.

• The opportunity to work on innovative Defence projects with real-world impact.
• Guidance and mentorship from experienced architects and technical leads.
• Room to grow and develop in Enterprise Architecture and Systems Design.

What we expect from you

• • Technical background: a Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Business Information Technology, or a related field, or demonstrable relevant work experience.
  • Experience with programming languages such as Python, C++, Rust, Go, or similar.
  • Familiarity with Linux/Unix systems and infrastructure; basic knowledge of container technologies (Docker/Kubernetes) is an advantage.
  • Experience with data-driven computing environments.
  • Ability to create and maintain technical documentation and operational procedures.
  • Experience with MLOps, DevOps, DevSecOps, or similar software engineering or AI engineering roles in complex, regulated environments.
  • Willingness to learn Defence-specific processes, standards, and terminology.

  Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in Systems Engineering.
  • Affinity with Defence IT projects and societal impact.

Don't meet every requirement? No problem. We still encourage you to apply. We value not only your experience but, above all, your motivation and how well you would fit within our team.

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 € 3.497,- en € 6.153,- (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.
• 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 4th of October, 2026. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 12th of October. The second interview round has been scheduled for the 19th of October. 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.