Scientific Software Engineer | Delft

Want to leave your mark on our time? Come work at TNO as a Scientific Software Engineer in Delft!

About this position

Quantum technology is one of the emerging and most promising technologies of our time. Within TNO’s Quantum Technology department, research is conducted in three core areas of quantum: quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing. You will work within this department and contribute to projects that are carried out both directly for clients and in close collaboration with partners within the Dutch and European quantum ecosystem.

What will be your role?

At TNO, we apply leading scientific knowledge to develop new technological solutions and applications. Our work focuses on designing and building systems that make use of quantum properties, bridging the gap between fundamental research and practical applications through test setups, demonstrators, and product development. Software forms an essential foundation for experiments in quantum technology. As quantum systems become more complex, robust software architectures and further simplification and automation of experiments are crucial to enable growth. To further shape this development, the Quantum Technology department is looking for a Scientific Software Engineer. Does this appeal to you? Then come and strengthen our quantum team.

In this role, you will design, write, and maintain software together with other Scientific Software Engineers and/or domain experts. You will work on multiple projects in which you help colleagues with high-quality software. Within these projects, you will work on various topics related to control and analysis software for quantum computers, ranging from capturing experiments in software and writing instrument drivers to maintaining CI pipelines and performing data analysis and visualization. You will apply various technologies, including Python and GitLab CI. With your software, you will enable technical progress and make a major positive impact on the team. In short, you will never be bored and will have the opportunity to leave your mark on our department and on quantum technology in general. You will have room to learn new technologies and work on a wide range of interesting topics and challenges.

What we expect from you

Technical skills and expertise:

• A master’s degree or PhD in an experimental, technical field such as (Applied) Physics, Electrical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering, and at least 3 years of professional experience writing scientific software;
• Excellent command of Python;
• In-depth knowledge of software engineering principles and best practices, such as OOP, design patterns, and SOLID principles; version control with Git; writing unit tests and documentation; and CI with Docker in GitLab;
• Experience with or affinity for collaborating with colleagues from other disciplines;
• Nice-to-haves: controlling (high-frequency) electronics and pulses; data manipulation, analysis, and visualization in Python; experience with (spin) qubits.

Soft skills and mindset:

• Strong analytical skills and problem-solving ability;
• A proactive team player with good communication skills;
• A passion for structured and maintainable software and its application in the broader context of quantum systems;
• Flexibility and a win-win mindset, with the ability to defend and balance the (sometimes opposing) interests of software and domain requirements;
• Eager to learn and open to feedback.

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 € 4,000 and € 6,000 (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.

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 on a full-time basis plus a flexible holiday (prorated) that can be used on a cultural, religious, or otherwise important day of your choosing.
• 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.

TNO as an employer

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. 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.