RF/Microwave IC designer

About this position — RF/Microwave IC designer

Would you like to work on technology that truly matters? At TNO, you will contribute to the next generation of MMICs (Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits) that are directly integrated by our industrial partners into advanced defence radar systems. You will develop innovative solutions that push the performance of future radar systems to the next level. This makes your work both technologically challenging and socially relevant.

• Locatie: The Hague
• Werken op afstand: Hybrid
• Opleidingsniveau: Doctorate
• Opleidingsniveau: Master
• Uren per week: 32-40 hours/week

What will be your role?

In this position, you will be hands-on from day one, designing, simulating, and testing MMICs. Within our projects, you will always work from an application-driven perspective, making design and technology choices based on the required system performance and the intended operational environment.

You will use state-of-the-art design and simulation tools such as Cadence and ADS and work with (Bi)CMOS and III-V semiconductor technologies. Using these technologies, you will design, characterize, and simulate components, perform circuit and electromagnetic (EM) simulations, and optimize layouts. Depending on your expertise and interests, you will also actively contribute to the measurement and evaluation of your designs in our state-of-the-art laboratory, working closely with our measurement specialists.

You will be part of a team where all chip building blocks come together seamlessly through strong collaboration. In addition, you will work with other radar specialists, including our antenna experts, giving you access to a broad knowledge network and enabling you to make a greater impact on radar technology together.

Why is this work at TNO so unique?

For more than 25 years, TNO has been researching and developing MMIC technology that is used in advanced radar systems for applications including those of the Royal Netherlands Navy. Our designs directly contribute to the performance of radar systems deployed on air defence and command frigates, as well as Holland-class patrol vessels.

Within the Radar Technology department, we combine expertise in electromagnetics and antennas, RF modules, IC design, and signal processing. This means you will work in an environment where different disciplines come together and where your IC designs are actually integrated into operational radar systems. The combination of deep technical expertise and tangible real-world applications makes this work both unique and impactful.

What we expect from you

Technical background

You hold a Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, with a focus on RF/Microwave Technology, IC Design, or Analog Electronics. You have an affinity for and/or experience with IC design using ADS or Cadence. Experience with tape-outs or complete IC designs is considered a strong advantage.

Skills and mindset

You possess strong analytical skills and enjoy tackling technical challenges within a broader system context. You are interested in connecting your IC designs to their application in radar systems and feel comfortable working in a multidisciplinary team. You are curious, detail-oriented, and open to learning new things and receiving feedback.

Working environment

You will be working in an environment where technology directly contributes to national security and therefore feel comfortable operating within the defence domain. To ensure effective collaboration, you are expected to be present at our office in The Hague at least three days per week. In addition, you have a good command of the Dutch language, both spoken and written.

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 € 3,555 and € 6,884 (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 plus a flexible holiday that can be used on a cultural, religious, or otherwise important day of your choosing (on a full-time basis).
• 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.
• Flexible working hours, the possibility to work parttime (32 or 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
• A good pension scheme.

Security screening

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.