Technical Innovation Engineer (KPN Fieldlabs)

Ben jij de pionier die niet alleen droomt over de technologie van 2035, maar deze vandaag al bouwt? Als Technical Innovation Engineer (KPN Fieldlabs) duik je in emerging tech zoals 6G, AI en Cloud, en vertaal je complexe vraagstukken naar werkende Proof of Concepts in onze Fieldlabs.

Jouw rol als Technical Innovation Engineer (KPN Fieldlabs)

Are you an engineer with a true “maker” mindset—someone who can configure a server as easily as present a strategic vision to stakeholders? Do you get energy from physically building test setups as well as defining the long-term impact of technology for KPN? Then we are looking for you.

As an Innovation Engineer – KPN Fieldlabs:

You pioneer emerging technologies

• Identify and validate future technologies such as 5G/6G, AI applications, and next-generation network protocols
• Translate technical developments into a long-term strategic vision for KPN

You build tangible solutions

• Design and develop Proof of Concepts (PoCs) and Minimum Viable Products (MVPs)
• Work hands-on with technologies such as cloud environments, network configurations, and hardware setups (e.g., drones)
• Ensure concepts are translated into fully functioning technical solutions

You lead and connect

• Act as technical lead in complex projects and coordinate internal and external stakeholders (partners, vendors)
• Maintain oversight and ensure a smooth transition from innovation to operational environments

You analyze and advise

• Perform technical testing, measurements, and validations
• Document findings in evaluation reports and present results to stakeholders
• Demonstrate how innovations contribute to customer value and KPN’s long-term strategy toward 2035
• Effectively communicate and inspire both technical and non-technical stakeholders

Dit is je team

Within the Strategy, Technology & Architecture (ST&A) department at KPN, you will work at the core of technological innovation. We look far ahead—what will the telecom landscape look like in 2030–2035? But we don’t stop at theory. In our Fieldlabs and through consortium collaborations, we test and validate new technologies in real-world scenarios.

You will be part of a diverse team of strategists, architects, and engineers. Together, we bridge the gap between technological innovation and production networks. It’s an environment where a hands-on mindset meets strategic thinking, giving you the freedom to design and build new test setups—from drones to cloud infrastructures.

Wat breng jij ons?

You are a versatile technologist who seamlessly combines strategy with execution. You have an open mindset—you don’t need to know everything yet, but you are eager to learn. You work independently, bring structure to complexity, and aren’t afraid to think outside the box to make innovations succeed.

What you bring:

• Completed relevant HBO/WO degree with several years of practical experience
• Experience designing and building Proof of Concepts (PoCs) and Minimum Viable Products (MVPs), from concept to working solution
• Strong technical foundation or specialization in networks, 5G/6G, cloud, and/or AI & data
• Hands-on programming skills, with experience setting up infrastructure and test environments
• Experience working in multidisciplinary teams and communicating results to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Analytical and curious, comfortable with experimentation and iterative learning
• Strong communication skills and ownership; coordination experience is a plus

Your collaboration strengths:

• Strategic thinker: You look beyond the immediate challenges and understand the impact of technology on the 2030–2035 horizon
• Strong communicator: Fluent in Dutch and English, able to inspire and engage colleagues
• Stakeholder management: Comfortable presenting to different levels and managing expectations across commercial and technical teams
• Hands-on approach: You are not afraid to get your hands dirty—you’re the one connecting cables and drawing the architecture

Wat krijg je van ons?

• Salary: A gross monthly salary between €5,190 and €7,803 (based on 40 hours per week), depending on your knowledge, experience, and growth potential within the role. Salary bands are carefully determined based on internal reference roles and market guidelines, ensuring your compensation matches your impact and development at KPN.
• 13th month bonus: Paid partly monthly and partly in January of the following year, or you can allocate it to a FLEX & BOOST goal of your choice.
• Annual increases: Individual and collective raises according to our collective labor agreement (CAO).
• Professional development budget: €1,500 per year to use as you see fit for training, coaching, or courses.
• Flexible vacation: Employees can arrange their leave in consultation with their manager.
• Work-life balance: We support a healthy balance between professional and personal life.
• Home office support: Guidance and resources to set up an optimal home workspace, including a mobile phone and laptop.
• Employee discounts: 50% off KPN products and services for affordable internet, phone, and streaming.
• Travel reimbursement: Full reimbursement for public transport or €0.23 per kilometer by car. Prefer cycling? Receive €0.40 per kilometer.
• Lease bike option: Choose from city bikes, e-bikes, race bikes, or speed-pedelecs, with KPN contributing monthly (for permanent contracts).
• Pension scheme: Total contribution of 23% of your pensionable salary, with KPN contributing 16% and you 7%.

Our philosophy: We have great faith in technology—but human connection makes it even stronger. That’s why we look forward to meeting you!