Senior Project & Acquisition Manager System Lifetime & Productivity Improvement

Want to make your mark on our time? Become a Senior Project & Acquisition Manager at TNO in Delft!

About this position

Are you passionate about driving innovation in the semiconductor industry? Do you thrive in a high-tech, multidisciplinary environment where your expertise can make a real impact? Join TNO’s Semicon Equipment Lifetime (SEL) group, a leading research team dedicated to advancing the reliability and performance of semiconductor manufacturing equipment. The SEL group specializes in understanding and extending the lifetime of critical components used in chip production, such as optics and materials. We combine deep expertise in contamination control, surface analysis, and vacuum technology to solve real-world challenges for global industry leaders like ASML. Our team operates state-of-the-art experimental facilities, including a unique setup for Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) lithography research, the EBL2. We also collaborate closely with both industry and academic partners. By joining us, you’ll contribute to projects that directly shape the future of semiconductor technology, making manufacturing more efficient, sustainable, and innovative.

What will be your role?

In this role, you will take ownership of complex, experimental research projects that are at the heart of semiconductor manufacturing innovation. From the earliest stages, defining proposals and shaping project goals, through to hands-on execution and final delivery, you will ensure that each project meets the highest standards of quality and impact. You’ll lead and inspire multidisciplinary teams of scientists, engineers, and experimentalists, fostering close collaboration and a shared commitment to excellence.

As the primary point of contact for our customers, you’ll build strong relationships and maintain clear communication, ensuring that their needs are understood and met throughout the project lifecycle. Managing several projects in parallel, you’ll balance resources and adapt to shifting priorities in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. Your work will also involve close cooperation with business development and scientific leads, helping to secure new projects and expand our influence within the semiconductor sector.

Beyond project delivery, you’ll engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including industry partners, suppliers, and internal leadership, to drive project success. You’ll also play an active role in the ongoing development of our team and organization, sharing your knowledge, mentoring colleagues, and participating in professional growth opportunities. In short, you’ll be a driving force behind both our projects and our people, helping to shape the future of semiconductor technology.

What we expect from you

• A Master’s or PhD in physics, chemistry, electrical or mechanical engineering, or a closely related technical field.
• At least 8–10 years of experience in a high-tech systems environment, with significant exposure to the semiconductor industry.
• Proven track record as a project manager, including managing complex, multidisciplinary, and experimental research projects.
• Experience with program management, project development, and ideally formal project management training or certifications.
• Strong people management and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to communicate effectively at all levels—from technical teams to executive stakeholders.
• Structured yet pragmatic approach to work, with a proactive, customer- and results-oriented mindset.
• Excellent analytical and conceptual thinking abilities.
• Fluent in English (verbal and written); Dutch is a plus.
• Commercial insight, strategic thinking, and a willingness to support and mentor other project leaders.

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 € 4.680,- and € 6.868,- (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.

• 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.
• Access to TNO’s project managers guild: a network of some three hundred equals. The guild organizes workshops, conferences, intervision sessions and other activities for project managers.
• 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.