Manager of the Energetic Materials Research Group

Want to make your mark on our time? Become a Manager of the Energetic Materials Research Group at TNO in The Hague!

About this position

Your work touches on today's current affairs as well as tomorrow's security. Growing geopolitical tensions are increasing the need for security and defence knowledge and technology; from munitions safety to propulsion systems. As manager, you will work with a team of experts in energetic materials on pioneering research as well as concrete applications with direct social impact. Together, you support the international chemical industry in addition to defence. And advise various players on explosion safety issues as well as space technology. That’s right: your work really does matter.

What will be your role?

Conduct explosion tests. Building and testing a rocket engine prototype in our own bunkers. Examining major events such as the explosion at the Mali disaster. In the Energetic Materials research group, scientific research and practically applicable solutions come together. Due to current events and increased urgency, the group has grown rapidly to over 70 professionals in recent years. To properly shape the future, we are splitting the department into two expertise groups from 1 January 2026. You will begin as the right-hand assistant to the current research manager and will progress to an independent manager of one of these two groups within approximately three to six months.

In your group, the focus is on research on energetic materials production, process safety and propulsion technology. You are responsible for the substantive course, the management and development of your team, keeping the (permits for and investments in) the facilities in order and strengthening the knowledge position towards the future. In doing so, you translate the unit's Defence, Safety & Security strategy into a clear vision for your expertise group. You are also part of the division's MT and work closely with your fellow research manager. You monitor consistency and progress across the domain. And together with all dedicated professionals in the field, we guide research that will make a difference tomorrow.

What we expect from you

You have a great sense of responsibility for your work, the professionals in your team and the functioning of your research group within the organisation. With a good balance between operational decisiveness, people-focused leadership and realising connections, you take your group into our inspiring ambition. You can analyse complex situations well, oversee the big picture and effectively prioritise and organise work.

Other knowledge and skills you bring to TNO:

• University level education in a relevant field, such as technology or chemistry.
• Minimum seven years' work experience, of which at least three years as a manager in a project-driven work environment.
• Affinity with the domains of the Energetic Materials research group.
• A relevant network that you are keen to expand.
• A good command of Dutch and English, both oral and written. The working language in the department is Dutch.

If you don’t think you tick all the boxes in the description above, but still believe you would be a good fit for this job, be sure to respond. Together, we’ll find out whether there’s a match.

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 yearly salary between € 80.100,- and € 105.000,- (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. 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 on a full-time basis.
• An employer that values and encourages diverse talent, with initiatives like the Female Leadership Program, our Rainbow Community and round tables on 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 of 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
• A good pension scheme.

TNO as an employer

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society.

Safety is not something that can be taken for granted. That's why the work you do here, in any position, is meaningful and has an impact on society. Jane Duinisveld Corporate Recruiter

Email: jane.duinisveld@tno.nl