Operational Radar Expert

About this position

We live in a world where technology and threats are evolving at a rapid pace. Radar plays an essential role in providing the information needed to understand and respond to these developments. To stay ahead, continuous innovation in radar technology is indispensable.

Within the Radar Technology department, we work on the radar solutions of today and tomorrow. In this field, TNO is a leading R&D partner with a broad and state-of-the-art knowledge base, ranging from complete system concepts and architectures for a wide variety of applications to the smallest details of integrated microwave circuits, antennas, radar waveforms, and signal processing.

As an Operational Radar Expert, you will work at the intersection of scientific research and operational application. Within the department, you will be part of the Signal Processing and System Concepts group, while also contributing to multidisciplinary projects in collaboration with experts from other fields. Your scientific radar expertise enables you to identify which technological developments are relevant for addressing real-world defence challenges. From long-term exploratory research to direct operational analyses and solutions, your work will contribute to the security, resilience, and information advantage of the Netherlands and its allies.

What will be your role?

As an Operational Radar Expert, you will combine scientific depth with operational analysis. Together with your colleagues, you will develop innovative radar concepts that contribute to high-quality information provision. In doing so, you will take into account emerging technologies, evolving threats, and future operational environments. Examples include radar networks, operations in congested electromagnetic environments, and resilience against jamming.

By participating in research projects, you will stay at the forefront of innovations in the radar domain and apply this knowledge in your operational work. You will also act as a connector between departments, projects, and stakeholders.

In addition, you will translate complex technical and operational challenges into robust models and algorithms, and turn analytical results into actionable recommendations. You will serve as the bridge between radar technology developments and practical defence applications. Your responsibilities include:

• Developing and applying new concepts, models, and algorithms.
• Assessing the effectiveness of radar systems and operational concepts.
• Documenting results in reports, simulations, and recommendations.
• Presenting findings to colleagues, project teams, and clients.

What we expect from you

You enjoy developing and applying new concepts, models, algorithms, and analytical methods to complex technical challenges. You combine a strong technical foundation with the ambition to make an impact in practice. You are curious, driven, and motivated to tackle complex problems.

Even when requirements are not fully defined or information is incomplete, you are able to create structure and work step by step towards practical solutions.

You also possess strong analytical skills. You can dive into technical details while maintaining a clear overview of the bigger picture, distinguishing between what is essential and what is not. You take initiative, work independently when needed, and thrive in an environment where not all answers or processes are predefined. You quickly master new subjects, are self-reliant, and know when to seek support or expertise from others. With your proactive attitude and sense of ownership, you contribute actively to both your own success and that of the team.

We welcome candidates with a variety of experience levels. The exact number of years of experience is less important than the qualities and capabilities you bring.

What You Bring

• A completed MSc degree in a technical or scientific field, such as Applied Physics, Applied Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrable affinity with electromagnetics, signal processing, modelling, and simulation through study, research, or professional experience.
• Interest in defence-related challenges and a willingness to immerse yourself in operational contexts.
• Knowledge of and/or experience with radar technology and radar system concepts is an advantage, but not a requirement.
• Strong programming skills and a motivation to further develop them.
  • Practical experience with Python and/or MATLAB.
• Willingness to work at least three days per week from our office in The Hague to facilitate collaboration with your team and colleagues.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in both Dutch and English.

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 € 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.

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

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.