Vacature (senior) Project Manager Circulair Plastic en R&D
22-10-2026
Turn innovative research into real-world impact | NTCP | Heerenveen. Help shape the future of plastics recycling.
NTCP (ntcp.nl), is the leading organization in Europe for pretreatment of plastic recycling. We turn innovative ideas into practical solutions for a more circular plastics industry. As an independent applied research organisation, we work at the intersection of science, technology and industry to develop, test and advance plastic recycling technologies.
Our unique industrial-scale facilities allow us to investigate the entire recycling chain — from collected plastic waste to processing technologies and new products. We work with an international network of industrial partners, technology developers, research institutions and other stakeholders to help accelerate the transition towards a circular economy.
What if your project management skills could help change the way the world uses plastics?
We are looking for a
(Senior) Project Manager Circular Plastics and R&D
who can bring people, technology and ideas together to deliver complex projects and turn ambitious goals into tangible results.
As (Senior) Project Manager, you will take ownership of multidisciplinary R&D projects from initial concept to final delivery. You will work closely with researchers, engineers, industrial partners and other stakeholders to ensure that projects deliver meaningful results within agreed timelines, budgets and scope.
This is an opportunity to combine strategic oversight with hands-on project leadership in a growing organisation where your contribution is visible and your work has a purpose.
What you will do
- Lead complex R&D projects: Translate project objectives and client needs into clear plans, milestones, deliverables and execution strategies.
- Bring disciplines together: Align researchers, engineers, technical specialists and external partners around shared objectives and responsibilities to deliver results to academic and industrial standards.
- Deliver results: Manage project scope, budgets, resources, timelines and risks, taking timely action when challenges arise.
- Drive progress and improvement: Monitor project performance, identify bottlenecks and implement solutions to keep projects on track.
- Build strong partnerships: Manage expectations, communicate progress and maintain effective relationships with clients, industrial partners and research organisations.
- Strengthen project delivery: Share knowledge, improve ways of working and help NTCP further develop its project management capabilities as the organisation grows.
What will you bring
- Master’s degree or comparable in a technical or technological discipline, such as chemical engineering, materials science, process engineering or mechanical engineering
- A strong intrinsic motivation to improve plastic recycling
- A minimum of 5-7 years of experience as project leader in a R&D environment
- A proven track record of successful leading of (cross-functional and multidisciplinary) projects from initiation to closure
- Strong skills in project planning, budgeting, resource allocation, risk management and progress monitoring.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to align different interests and turn complex challenges into actionable plans
- Thrives in dynamic, growing and innovative environment, you are curious, open-minded, have can-do mentality and willing to learn all about circular plastics industry
- Ability to translate market needs to clear execution plans
- Authorised to work in the Netherlands
Our offer
- We offer you the opportunity to work in an innovative and creative environment in an area that matters and creates.
- With our unique, world-class equipment, we aim to contribute to the global plastic recycling industry. As a project manager, you’ll have the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research and innovation on a global scale.
- The continuous growth and development of the organisation will also give you the opportunity to contribute to the future developments of NTCP.
- You will join a dynamic team of ~25 well-motivated colleagues from different disciplines and with a diverse international background. In addition, our position, current partners and clients allow you to be active in and expand your international network.
Benefits
- The opportunity to work in an innovative, collaborative environment focused on a meaningful societal and industrial challenge
- Salary aligned with the responsibilities of the role and the candidate’s level of expertise and a one-year contract, with outlook on a permanent position
- 27 leave days plus national holidays
- Personal budget & commuter allowance
- Opportunities for growth
- Fresh fruit at the office every day
- Fun and relaxation through company outings
Interested?
Does this job sound right for you and do you meet the above requirements, then apply with your CV and motivation letter by email to Femma Kroes, Recruiter NTCP (fkroes@ntcp.nl). We only take applications in consideration that are written in English. You can contact Sabina Lukovac, Programme Manager NTCP (slukovac@ntcp.nl), for more information.