TNO Traineeship

Want to make your mark on our time? Become a trainee at TNO! The traineeship starts on February 1, 2026.

About this position

At TNO we work on projects with societal impact through technological development. From the safe encryption of money transactions using quantum mechanics, game changing radar technology for the Dutch Defense, to testing innovative energy concepts. Our impact reaches far and wide.

What will be your role?

As a TNO trainee, you get the unique opportunity to accelerate your personal and professional growth.

TNO’s Traineeship helps you understand and develop your talents, drives, and values. During two years, you get to experience three different roles and departments. It is up to you to find, choose, and shape these positions. This will also bring challenges. We expect you to take these on and we support you in this through offering training courses, workshops, peer intervision, and a personal coach. These are means which you can use to develop your leadership skills. Along the way, you’ll be part of an enthusiastic group of nearly 30 trainees. This traineeship is a chance to craft your own path within TNO. Are you up for the challenge?

Your 5-day workweek during the Traineeship:

• Work within departments

  Three and a half days you work at one of the TNO units in the role of project leader, business developer, consultant or sometimes as a scientist. You work together with a team of experts well matched in their unlimited ambition and drive to make an impact on society. Together with them, you translate knowledge into practice.

• Personal development

  On average, one day a week will be dedicated to your personal development. With the help of a personal coach, training courses, and workshops, you will have the opportunity to better understand your talents, drives, and values. You will also expand your knowledge on various leadership and soft-skill topics. Through peer coaching, you will learn from, and with, your fellow trainees. Additionally, the management of the trainee program will challenge and support you throughout your traineeship.

• Internal strategic projects

  Half a day per week you will focus on TNO-wide strategy projects with fellow trainees. Together with senior management, you can address a challenging issue, enabling you to delve into the dynamics of our extensive organisation.

The TNO traineeship has accelerated the development of many colleagues to a key position within TNO.

Please note: this traineeship is designed specifically for broader organisational roles. Are you looking for a starter position as a scientist, researcher or expert? Please check out our vacancies for starters and the Talent development programme.

What we expect from you

Charting your own course in a large and complex organisation like TNO is a fantastic opportunity. We provide the tools, and you bring the eagerness and determination to make the most of your traineeship. You thrive in change: working in three departments over two years suits your entrepreneurial and adaptable character. When challenges arise, you reflect, learn, and grow. You draw connections across disciplines, value diverse perspectives and communicate effectively. Moreover, you are driven to contribute to innovations for the sustainable wellbeing, safety and prosperity of society.

Plus, you meet the following criteria:

• You earned a Master’s degree within two years of the traineeship’s start on 1 February 2026 (so you have a maximum of 2 years fulltime working experience between BSc and MSc or after MSc).
• You have a BSc degree in a technical study, for example Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, (applied) Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or (applied) Mathematics. And…
  • A master's degree in a technical study, but you know and can show that you want to connect with other disciplines. Or:
  • A field of study that shows broadening and interdisciplinary connection. For example, a master's degree in Technical Business Administration, Innovation Management, Transition Management or Industrial Design.
• You have engaged in extracurricular activities alongside your studies.
• You currently live within Europe and are willing to move to the Netherlands when selected for the traineeship.

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 of € 3,420 (If you have 1 or 2 years of relevant fulltime work experience, we will take this into account), 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.
• 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 or 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home. (During the traineeship, you will work 40 hours per week).
• Networking opportunities and great activities organized by Jong TNO.
• 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.

If you join us, we will also require a Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG).

Because you may work on assignments in the defense and security domain, it may be necessary for the AIVD to issue a Security Clearance (VGB). This requires a security screening beforehand.

'I recruit talent for innovation and research in defense and security. I also coordinate the selection of trainees at TNO. I find motivation very important. What drives a candidate to work at TNO? I'm curious about that.'

Serge Moesman Recruiter