Tech & Management Traineeship @ Thales

Tech & Management Traineeship at Thales

Start: October 2025 | Location: Hengelo (NL) and beyond | Duration: 20 months

At Thales, we don’t just imagine the future; we build it. As a global leader in advanced technologies in defense, aerospace, digital identity, and security, we’re looking for driven young professionals to help us push boundaries. If you’re a recent graduate with a technical Master’s degree, passionate about engineering, and eager to lead, our Tech & Management Traineeship is your launchpad.

About the Traineeship

In just 20 months, you’ll jump into three exciting assignments across different parts of Thales Netherlands. It’s fast-paced, it’s challenging, and it’s the ultimate growth sprint. Your journey will start at our headquarters in Hengelo and may continue across various sites. Possibly even abroad, depending on project availability and business needs.

You’ll work on real-world projects starting within the Integration, Verification, Validation, and Qualification (IVVQ) department, and moving to other departments such as industry or business operations. You’ll gain critical technical knowledge while developing your leadership and management capabilities. It’s a unique opportunity to get to know Thales inside and out before launching your career in a role that truly fits you.

Meanwhile, you’ll follow a personal development program led by Ormit Talent, designed to grow your leadership skills, strategic thinking, and stakeholder management abilities.

What you’ll do:

• Kickstart your career with a 20-month program at Thales Netherlands.
• Perform three assignments across various areas such as engineering, business, industry and operations.
• Work in an international environment and across various sites of Thales.
• Contribute to Thales’ key innovations in safety, security, and technology.
• Develop as a future leader with intensive coaching, mentoring, peer sessions, and business challenges.
• Successful completion of the traineeship opens the door to an exciting, predefined role within Thales Engineering Department.

What we offer:

• A full employment contract with Thales Netherlands from day one (20 months duration).
• A clear career path towards leadership roles within engineering.
• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• 40 paid vacation days.
• Intensive leadership development through the Ormit Talent program.
• Personal coaching, mentorship, and regular peer group learning.
• The opportunity to shape your future in an international, innovative, and high-tech environment.
• A chance to make a real impact: creating safer societies through cutting-edge technology.

Who are you:

Master’s Degree

You hold a Master’s degree in a technical field (Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, etc.) with 0-3 years of work experience.

Tech & Management

You have a genuine passion for technology and innovation, but also an ambition to lead people and projects.

Adaptive Thinker

You are proactive, resilient, curious, and comfortable operating in dynamic, complex environments.

Fluent in English

You are fluent in English (written and spoken). Dutch is not required.

Location-flexible

You are willing to work based in Hengelo but have the flexibility to travel to other Thales sites or to customers around the Netherlands and the EU.

Security Requirements:

In line with Thales’ security requirements, candidates must provide proof of identity, work eligibility in the Netherlands, and education or employment history. This role requires a security clearance. For more information, visit the General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD).

About Thales

Thales is a global leader in advanced technologies shaping the future of our world, from defense and aerospace to cybersecurity and digital identity. With operations in over 60 countries and 80,000 employees worldwide, we work every day on solutions that make life safer, smarter, and more secure.

In the Netherlands, Thales is at the forefront of technological innovation. Our teams in Hengelo, Huizen, Delft, Eindhoven and other locations develop world-class radar systems, advanced cybersecurity solutions, and mission-critical defense technology. We combine a rich history of engineering excellence with a bold vision for the future, and we’re looking for the next generation of talent to help us get there.

Joining Thales means joining a global network of passionate professionals driven by purpose, innovation, and impact. Ready to be part of something bigger?

About Ormit Talent

We believe that talent like yours has the power to truly make a difference. At Ormit Talent, you won’t just develop your skills; you’ll grow into a future leader. We challenge you constantly, give you honest feedback, and help you push your boundaries. Standing still isn’t an option here — you grow. We’re driven to win, to innovate, and to make the world a little better. Sound like the right place for you? Then we’d love to have you on board.

For questions, feel free to reach out to our recruiter Lotte Hilbers via lotte.hilbers@ormittalent.nl or 06 23692148.