Business Developer Counter-UxS

About this position

No two working days are the same, but one thing is certain: as a Business Developer Counter-UxS, you will work closely with the Ministry of Defence, industry partners, fellow research organisations and, of course, your colleagues at TNO. You will bring together our clients’ needs and the Netherlands’ innovative strength to drive meaningful advances in counter-UxS technology and help Dutch companies build a strong international position.

What will be your role?

Together with a team at TNO, you will work on innovative solutions to help achieve our ambitions and objectives in the field of counter-UxS across a wide range of applications, both military and within the broader security sector. You will work closely with national and international clients and the associated industries, helping them explore their needs and opportunities. You take the initiative and turn ideas into concrete projects, with the aim of creating economic and security impact for the Netherlands in both the short and long term.

You do this by leveraging our scientific expertise and advanced research facilities. You aim to build long-term relationships with clients and industry partners, contributing to European strategic autonomy and a strong role for the Netherlands within it. You explore the market and develop and initiate strategies that bring all relevant parties together to collaborate on concrete solutions. You work side by side with your clients, who see you as a valuable and trusted adviser.

You play an active role in various multidisciplinary teams. You will often take the lead in developing new projects, while always working closely with other, often highly experienced, colleagues.

You keep up to date with developments in the field, for example by attending national and international conferences, engaging with key stakeholders and visiting a broad range of clients. In doing so, you contribute to the future readiness and operational effectiveness of the armed forces and to the security of the Netherlands in a rapidly changing world.

At TNO, you will join a team of experienced business developers within the Electromagnetics & Military Operations (E&MO) market team of the Defence Safety & Security unit. Our goal? To increase the effectiveness of defence and security organisations by developing smart technological solutions in the electromagnetic spectrum and conducting operational analyses of current and future military operations.

We also aim to strengthen the international position of Dutch industry. Our market team brings together people with diverse backgrounds and experience. We build on each other’s strengths and trust one another to take ownership and hand over responsibilities when needed. There is plenty of room to learn and develop, we value enjoying our work, and we are always willing to help each other. Above all, we share a passion for our profession and for the field of defence and security.

What we expect from you

You have a strong interest in the world of military technology and security. You combine a relevant professional or technical background, or a strong affinity with the field, with an entrepreneurial, sociable and enthusiastic attitude, and you are able to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. You enjoy connecting with people and do so with ease, naturally bringing people and perspectives together. You can also switch effortlessly between different communication styles and between national and international contexts.

You bring structure and direction, for example to proposal processes or partnerships involving government and industry, and are able to balance long-term objectives with short-term actions. You have an investigative mindset, are naturally curious and enjoy getting to the heart of complex challenges. You use your creativity to bring together the right expertise from across TNO.

What else do you bring?

A completed university-level degree, preferably in a technical field, or an equivalent qualification;
An interest in and understanding of modern technology, such as UxS systems, sensors or effectors;
At least 5 years of relevant professional experience, for example as a consultant or business developer within the field;
Preferably, an established and relevant network within the defence and security domain and related industries;
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 € 4.800,- and € 6.250,- (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 or a lease car.
• 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 19th of November, 2026. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 27th of November, 2026. 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.