Senior Tester

Senior Tester at Geological Survey of the Netherlands (GDN), TNO

About this position

Is the groundwater level in Limburg sufficient to meet our drinking water needs? Is the soil in Groningen stable enough to build on? And which parts of the Randstad are best suited for storing renewable energy? Information about the Dutch subsurface is crucial for answering major societal questions. At the Geological Survey of the Netherlands (GDN), part of TNO, addressing these challenges is at the heart of what we do. As a Senior Tester, you will be a key member of the Agile development team working on the BRO (Key Registry of the Subsurface) and help take the testing approach within GDN to the next level. In doing so, you’ll contribute to building a more future-proof Netherlands.

What will be your role?

As a Senior Tester at the Geological Survey of the Netherlands (GDN), you will play a key role in ensuring that the applications we develop are reliable, high-quality, and ready for real-world use. You’ll join the Agile development team working on the BRO, where your expertise will directly contribute to improving how we work with vital subsurface data. In addition to your daily testing tasks, you will also help shape the testing approach across the GDN organization.

In your day-to-day work, you will collaborate closely with developers, product owners, and other stakeholders. You’ll design and carry out both manual and automated tests, making sure that new features function smoothly and existing systems remain stable. Your ability to think ahead allows you to set up smart testing strategies that ensure long-term quality. You’ll work with tools like ReadyAPI and Groovy to automate tests and provide valuable feedback that helps the team deliver better software faster.

You’re also someone who enjoys improving the way things are done. Whether it’s guiding junior testers, refining the test process, or helping the team adopt new testing methods, you play a proactive role in building a strong quality culture. Your contribution helps ensure that every release meets our standards—and ultimately, that decision-makers can rely on our digital products.

As a tester, you are part of the team that works on the National Provision of the BRO, the largest key registry in the Netherlands. This facility ensures the collection of subsurface data by source holders and also the issuance of this data for customers of the BRO. As a team, you are responsible for the further development of this facility and its daily maintenance.

What we expect from you

You have a natural curiosity and a strong drive to deliver high-quality results. You enjoy working with colleagues from different disciplines and know how to clearly explain technical issues in an accessible way. You're detail-oriented but always keep the bigger picture in mind. You’re someone who takes initiative and inspires others with your passion for test automation and quality improvement. Being proactive and structured comes naturally to you, and you remain calm even under pressure. You’re always looking for ways to improve—smarter processes, better tools, and more effective methods are part of how you work.

In addition, we ask that you bring:

• A completed bachelor’s or master’s degree, preferably in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience as a tester within Agile development teams.
• Proven experience with test automation, ideally using ReadyAPI and Groovy.
• Experience creating test strategies and test plans.
• Familiarity with testing web applications and APIs (SOAP and REST).
• Experience mentoring or coaching junior testers is a plus.
• Strong communication skills in both Dutch and English.

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 € 4.473,- and € 6.888,- (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.
• 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. 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.

Email: liza.vangijtenbeek@tno.nl