Quantum Sensing Specialist[

About this position

At TNO, we turn the latest scientific insights into innovative technological solutions and applications. We design and build systems that harness quantum properties, bridging the gap between fundamental research and practical applications through test facilities, demonstrators and product development.

We are further developing our expertise in quantum sensing based on Rydberg atoms. You will have a specialist role in this field. You will not only develop the technology itself, but also help build the experimental infrastructure needed to turn ideas into systems that can actually be built and tested.

Your perspective extends beyond the experiment itself. Together with colleagues, clients and partners, you explore where this technology can be applied and help make the potential of Rydberg quantum sensing tangible and concrete.

What will be your role?

You will join TNO's Quantum Technology department, working on projects for clients and in close collaboration with partners across the Dutch and European quantum ecosystem.

In this role, you will help build our knowledge and experimental capabilities in quantum sensors based on Rydberg atoms. You translate scientific knowledge and concepts into experimental designs and build the setups needed to investigate and demonstrate them in practice.

This means developing and working out solutions yourself. You build and test experimental setups using optical systems, electronics and software. You contribute to the development of operational concepts and proof-of-concept demonstrations, showing how the underlying measurement principles can work in practice.

At the same time, you help further develop this field of expertise. You actively connect with potential applications and external partners and explore where this technology can add value. You can make complex science understandable to others and have the opportunity to take initiative in developing this new field.

In this way, you help ensure that new quantum sensing technology moves beyond the lab and is translated into applications that are relevant to clients and ultimately contribute to the security of the Netherlands.

What we expect from you

We are looking for a specialist who enjoys building something new. You combine scientific depth with a hands-on mindset and enjoy taking an idea or scientific concept all the way to a working experimental setup.

You work independently while actively seeking collaboration with colleagues and external partners. You take initiative, bring your own technical perspective and know how to build on the expertise of others. You are also interested in looking beyond the technology itself and contributing to new applications and collaborations.

What you bring:

• A Master's degree or PhD in Experimental Physics, Engineering or a comparable field.
• Hands-on experience in designing, building and testing quantum instrumentation, preferably based on Rydberg atoms.
• Experience with optical systems and electronics.
• Strong programming skills, particularly in Python.
• The ability to translate scientific knowledge into experimental designs and working setups.
• Initiative and an entrepreneurial mindset to help develop a new field of expertise.
• The ability to connect technology with potential applications and external partners.
• Strong communication skills in English.
• An independent and collaborative way of working.

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 €3500,- and € 5500,- (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.
• 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 8th of November. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. In a third and 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.