Modelling & Simulation Engineer

About this position

As part of the Modelling of Tactical Operations department, you will contribute to technically and scientifically challenging research projects aimed at helping Defence make better decisions. These projects cover a wide range of topics, from the acquisition and maintenance of onboard naval equipment to the preparation and execution of military operations.

Together with your colleagues, you will analyze data from simulations you have developed and executed, design concepts and algorithms, and provide recommendations that have a real impact on military units, policymakers, and decision-makers, both nationally and internationally.

What will be your role?

You will join the JROADS team, where you will help further develop an existing software simulation application in Java. Working in multidisciplinary project teams, you will collaborate with experts from various TNO departments to model land, maritime, and air systems, as well as threats, within the Defence domain.

Together with analysts and end users, you will develop new concepts and translate them into functional sub-models and software solutions that support analyses, exercises, and experiments. Defence organizations and other security agencies rely on our expertise to build simulation environments that allow operators to test new concepts or determine the most effective deployment of weapon and radar systems.

To ensure you quickly become a fully contributing member of project teams, you will first participate in a general internal training program focused on your personal development and the skills needed to work at TNO. Gradually, you will take on more responsibility, work more independently, and have increasing contact with customers.

A typical workday may include visiting military units to gather information or conduct tests and evaluations in the field.

What we expect from you

Are you passionate about technology and innovation? Do you enjoy modelling complex systems and want to contribute to meaningful societal goals? Then this position could be a great fit for you.

Experience or affinity with the Defence and Security domain is a plus, but not a requirement. If you are new to the field, you will quickly discover how fascinating and diverse this world is. Because you will be working in an innovative R&D environment, it is important that you have strong analytical skills, an excellent capacity for abstract thinking, and the ability to translate scientific concepts into practical solutions.

In addition, you have:

• A university-level MSc degree in a technical or scientific discipline, such as Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, or a related field with a relevant specialization (for example, Control & Simulation or Modelling).
• A broad interest in technology and demonstrable affinity with developing models and simulations. You combine curiosity and attention to detail with the ability to understand and manage complex systems.
• Experience with Java (or alternatively C++ or C#). Experience with Python is considered an advantage.
• Excellent command of both Dutch and English, spoken and written.

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 € 3,533 and € 8,072 (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 16th of November, 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.
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.