Software & System Engineer

About this position

TNO is a leading research and technology organization dedicated to innovation in defence and security. Our Acoustics and Underwater Warfare department develops advanced sonar and software solutions to strengthen the capabilities of the Royal Netherlands Navy. In today’s unpredictable geopolitical environment, your work is vital to protecting our society. By developing reliable and advanced software, you contribute directly to national security and the success of defence operations. This is meaningful work that delivers solutions to urgent challenges. Would you like to contribute to the development of new sonar applications for the latest naval vessels and help protect our fleet against underwater threats such as torpedoes and drones? Then the role of Software & System Engineer is the perfect opportunity for you.

What will be your role?

As a Software & System Engineer, you will work within a motivated team to develop sonar applications for use on board naval ships. You will translate research results into robust C++ software, support the modernization of the Dutch fleet, and collaborate closely with Navy software engineers. Strict quality standards and extensive testing are key aspects of this role.

Your responsibilities include:

• Developing and enhancing C++ software for naval frigates.
• Collaborating with researchers and Navy engineers.
• Ensuring software is maintainable and well documented.

What we expect from you

• A completed Master’s degree in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics
• Physics, or a related field.Experience with C++ and configuration management
• Affinity with software testing and signal processing
• Strong communication skills and a structured way of working.

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 € 3,700 and € 4,200 (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).
• An employer working towards a respectful, inclusive, and equitable work environment where every employee can flourish, with various initiatives such as Jong TNO, numerous expertise based guilds, Rainbow Community and Round Tables on diverse 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 or 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
• Extensive relocation package for international candidates.
• A good pension scheme.

Read more about tailoring your benefits package.

TNO as an employer

Our people are at the heart of TNO. Their curiosity, expertise and entrepreneurial mindset make it possible to deliver high-impact research and innovations that contribute to society’s sustainable wellbeing and prosperity. That is why we invest in an inspiring and inclusive working environment where colleagues can excel, have autonomy and continue to grow.

Your talent and ambition have every opportunity to flourish at TNO. You work with experts (both within and beyond TNO), have access to advanced technology and the freedom to explore, experiment and innovate. Our strength lies in independence, reliability and collaboration. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. By working with businesses and government, and by connecting different perspectives, we strengthen our innovative capability and create responsible, meaningful results.

At TNO, we believe this is our time to help society, government and business move forward faster. Together with driven colleagues, you turn knowledge into concrete innovations or ventures that truly make a difference by combining the power of science and entrepreneurship. And in doing so, you make your mark on our time.

The selection process

Please apply before the 31 of August 2026. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 9th of September, 2026. The second interview round will be scheduled later. 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.

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. Read more about security screening (opens in a new window or tab) (refers to a different website) . Has this job opening sparked your interest?

Then we’d like to hear from you! Please contact us for more information about the job or the selection process. To apply, please upload your CV and covering letter using the ‘