Scientist Underwater Operations

About this position

Developing software to predict the performance of the latest sonar systems? Planning and evaluating operations with underwater drones? Come work at TNO as an underwater operations scientist!

The world has been living in a new geopolitical reality since the invasion of Ukraine and has only become more unpredictable since then. Our society, politics, government, armed forces and knowledge institutions must move quickly. As a knowledge institute in the ecosystem, TNO plays a crucial role with a thousand highly educated employees in the field of innovations for Defence & Security. We actively contribute to a safer world, both nationally and in a European context.

The Acoustics and Underwater Warfare division brings together all acoustic expertise within TNO and works mainly for the Royal Netherlands Navy. The Underwater Operations & Seabed Security department focuses on research and development in the field of autonomous underwater systems. Applications include detecting sea mines with autonomous underwater and surface drones, stand-off anti-submarine warfare, underwater communication or protecting critical infrastructure on the seabed. We develop state-of-the-art acoustic sensor systems, including advanced data processing algorithms for visualization and information extraction to generate situational awareness. We also model to be able to predict the expected performance against underwater threats under various operational conditions.

What will be your role?

As a scientist, you will work in multiple research and development projects to develop solutions for our customers. You will work together with other highly motivated researchers from your team. You will participate in multiple projects, each with their own team. No two projects are the same, so there are plenty of opportunities to develop yourself further.

Your activities will include some or all of the following tasks, depending on your background and preferences:

1. Understanding how systems can be used in the underwater domain;
2. Research on optimizing planning, simulation and evaluation of missions with autonomous underwater drones, and on increasing drone autonomy
3. Developing or improving (sonar) processing algorithms for detecting enemy targets;
4. Modelling and simulating acoustics and performance of sensor systems;
5. Consulting with scientists to translate their ideas into demonstrators
6. Designing, setting up and carrying out experimental measurements at sea;
7. Reporting and presenting results;

If you like to work in teams and if you are looking for a job that contributes to society, this job offers you plenty of variety, and challenges you to develop further as a scientist.

What we expect from you

In addition to being enthusiastic about the work we do, you recognize yourself in the following profile:

1. You have an MSc or PhD in a technical field, such as (applied) physics, astronomy, electrical engineering, computer science, operations research or geophysics;
2. You have at least 3 to 5 years of experience developing software in MatLab, Python and/or C++;
3. You are proactive and assertive. You feel responsible for the end result and ensure that business gets done;
4. You are a creative problem solver, result-oriented, and have a clear and persuasive communication style
5. You have an affinity with research and development. Experience with signal processing and algorithm development is an advantage;
6. You are also able to work in an international and military context, such as in European or NATO projects;
7. You are open to new ideas, eager to learn, and help others learn in turn.

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 € 4.800,- and €6.500,- (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.
• 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 27 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.
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.