System Engineer Optomechatronica | DELFT

About this position

From mapping the galaxy and investigating the largest scales of the cosmos, down to the fast measurement and manipulation of matter at the nanometer level: the TNO research group Optomechatronics develops world-class optomechanical and mechatronics systems for customer needs in the fields of Space- and Scientific Instrumentation and the Semiconductor Industry.

With some 75 specialists, systems engineers and project managers, we develop working instrument prototypes to show how the technical challenges of our partners and customers can be solved. We push the limits of technology, to stimulate Dutch industry and enable scientific discovery.

See more about the TNO Unit High Tech Industry and the Optomechatronics Group on the TNO website.

What will be your role?

In your role as Systems Engineer, you are the technical leader in multidisciplinary teams of specialists and are the technical 'conscience' in projects. To do this, you need to be creative and have a good understanding of the expertises you're working with; mainly optics, mechanics, and control engineering.

Your challenge lies in connecting all expertises involved in a project, and in shifting between detailed technical discussions and maintaining a helicopter view to make strategic project decisions. These decisions often have to be made on the basis of incomplete data, and therefore it's important that you are aware of the underlying technical and physical principles.

Your main contributions to the projects are in the conceptual phase for idea generation and design phase for budgeting, technical decisions and team steering, in close cooperation with the customer(s), subcontractor(s) and partner(s). As system engineer you stay involved up to delivery to the customer, which requires the capability to manage the TNO team and their partners towards the desired performance results within time and budget constraints. In addition, together with your colleagues you write project proposals for new paid assignments.

What we expect from you

To be successful in this role, you have:

• A masters or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or another relevant specialisation.
• At least 3 years of relevant experience in the design of (opto)mechatronic systems in a high tech

environment.

• An understanding of optics, control engineering and mechatronic system design.
• Knowledge about sensors and actuators and the physical principles behind it.
• Experience with motivating, inspiring and convincing colleagues, project teams and customers,being able to steer your team members towards the result you have in mind.
• A critical mindset, eager to get to know what the customer demand is and willing to outdo its expectations together with your team.
• A pragmatic and creative attitude.
• Mastery of the English language, both in speech and in writing.

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 (based on your knowledge and experience), 8% holiday pay, a 13th 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.

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.
• 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 16th of August, 2026. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place in week 36 and 37. The second interview round has been scheduled for weeks 38 and 39. 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 (opens in a new window or tab) (refers to a different website) . Has this job opening sparked your interest?

Then we’d like to hear from you! Please contact us for more information about the job or the selection process. To apply, please upload your CV and covering letter using the ‘