Technical Engineer for Lab and Field Studies in Geosciences

Want to make your mark on our time? Join as a Technical Engineer for Lab and Field Studies in Geosciences at TNO in Utrecht!

About this position

Within the GeoScience & Technology (GST) team, a wide range of laboratory and field studies is conducted to investigate the behavior of rocks and monitor the response of the Earth to human activities in the subsurface. For example, rocks are studied under high pressure and temperature conditions in the lab, and movements in the Earth are detected using fiber optic cables, seismic sensors, or satellite signals. As a technical engineer, you will provide technical support for research on geothermal energy extraction, underground storage of hydrogen or CO¬2, or surface subsidence. You will work in a multidisciplinary team of researchers with backgrounds in geosciences (including geomechanics, geophysics, and geology). You will provide technical support for lab and field studies and collaborate with other technical engineers working from different departments of the Geological Survey of the Netherlands and TNO. With TNO colleagues and external partners, you will carry out measurement campaigns at the TNO laboratories in Utrecht and in the field for innovative research. Our clients are internationally oriented, giving you the opportunity to work with people from different cultural backgrounds.

What will be your role?

• Contribute to the design, preparation, and execution of experiments on rocks under high pressure and temperature conditions. You will work at the intersection of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and geotechnics, both independently and with researchers and technicians from different TNO departments. With your hands-on approach, you will play a key role in the technical support of various research projects.
• Organize field studies and install sensor networks to monitor earth movements (including fiber optic cables, seismic, and other sensors).
• Maintain and develop new equipment, installations, tools, and sensors for geoscientific lab and field studies.
• Ensure the laboratory and equipment are well-maintained by proactively planning necessary maintenance according to internal standards, and keeping the documentation for the facilities up to date.
• Facilitate and ensure that all activities are carried out with the required level of safety and quality according to standards within TNO. You will actively contribute to writing and reviewing risk inventories and evaluations.
• Build and maintain good relationships with suppliers.

What we expect from you

You are flexible and able to collaborate with researchers and understand their domain-specific requirements. You have a hands-on, problem-solving attitude and can independently resolve technical challenges. You have an affinity for lab and field research, preferably with mechanical and electrical systems and sensors. You are interested in working with high pressure and temperature (pumps, pipelines, pressure vessels). Qualifications and qualities:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or similar.
• Affinity for hands-on work with mechanical and electrical systems and sensors, as well as risk management and safety.
• A team player with strong communication skills in both Dutch and English (working languages).
• Experience with process engineering flow diagrams and design drawings is a plus.

What you'll get in return

• 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.
• 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.

The selection process

Please apply before 5th of January, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on 14th of January, 2025. The second interview round has been scheduled for 20th of January, 2025. In a final meeting we will discuss the terms of employment and your tailored benefits package. We aim to finalize the entire process within four weeks. 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.

Has this job opening sparked your interest?

Then we’d like to hear from you!

Email: anouk.bos@tno.nl

We are TNO: This is our time

This is the time for us to find innovative solutions that will make an impact. The time to lead the world in safety and security, make our lives healthier, and take sustainability to the next level.