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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of high-power laser and optical systems, solving complex engineering challenges.
- Company: Join QinetiQ, a leader in defence technology and innovation, shaping the future.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid working, generous holidays, and health insurance options.
- Why this job: Be part of a diverse team tackling exciting challenges and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Master's or PhD in Physics/Engineering or extensive industry experience required.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and opportunities for volunteering in the community.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Are you ready to be part of the future? At QinetiQ, we are not just imagining tomorrow we are creating it. From cutting edge defence technology to ground breaking innovations our mission is to empower and protect lives. Join us at our Farnborough or Malvern site, where you will have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology in partnership with some of the most brilliant minds.
The Role
As a Principal Optical Engineer, you will make a difference by playing a pivotal role in advancing high-power laser and optical systems, contributing to cutting-edge projects that have the potential to transform industries and make a lasting impact on technological innovation. Day-to-day, you'll collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and mature high-power laser and optical systems, drive project delivery and apply your technical expertise to solve complex engineering challenges.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Developing high power laser and optical systems through mid to high technology readiness levels (TRL5 to TRL9)
- Engaging with senior internal and external stakeholders to ensure project alignment and success
- Managing project planning and delivery to meet customer requirements and timelines
- Maturing scientific concepts into practical applications through design for manufacture and reliability
- Leading test and evaluation activities to ensure system performance and quality
- Collaborating with diverse teams to integrate optical systems and drive project outcomes
Essential experience:
- Extensive experience in an Optical Development environment
- Experience interpreting legislation, standards and best practices for high TRL development
Essential qualifications:
- Candidates should have either a Master's or PhD degree in Physics or Engineering, or extensive industry experience as an alternative
This role is 37 hours per week based at Farnborough or Malvern. Hybrid working patterns available.
Why Join QinetiQ?
As we continue to grow into new markets around the world, there's never been a more exciting time to join QinetiQ. The formula for success is our appetite for innovation and having the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges. As a QinetiQ employee, you'll experience a unique working environment where teams from different backgrounds, disciplines and experience enjoy collaborating widely and openly as we undertake this exciting and rewarding journey. Through effective teamwork, and pulling together, you'll get to experience what happens when we all share different perspectives, blend disciplines, and link technologies; constantly discovering new ways of solving complex problems in a diverse and inclusive environment where you can be authentic, feel valued and realise your full potential.
Our Benefits
- Matched contribution pension scheme, with life assurance
- Generous holiday allowance, with the option to purchase additional days
- Options to join Health Cash Plan, Private Medical Insurance and Dental Insurance
- Employee discount portal: Personal Accident Insurance, Travel Insurance, Restaurants, Cinema Tickets and much more
- We are proud to support the Armed Forces community by honouring the Armed Forces Covenant and maintaining our Gold Award standard in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme
- Volunteering Opportunities - helping charities and local community
Our Recruitment Process:
We want to make sure that our recruitment process is as inclusive as possible and we aspire to bring out the best in our candidates by creating an environment where everyone feels valued, heard and supported. If you have a disability or health condition that may affect your performance in certain assessment types, please speak to your Recruiter about potential reasonable adjustments. Many roles in QinetiQ are subject to national security vetting being completed, applicants who already hold the appropriate level of vetting may be able to transfer it upon appointment. A number of roles are also subject to additional restrictions, which mean factors such as nationality or previous nationalities may affect the roles that you can be employed in. Please note that all applicants for this role must be eligible for SC clearance, as a minimum.
Principal Optical Engineer employer: QinetiQ
Contact Detail:
QinetiQ Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Optical Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in high-power laser and optical systems. Being well-versed in current technologies and trends will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your passion and commitment to the field during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the optical engineering community, especially those who have experience in high TRL development. Engaging with industry experts can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals or recommendations for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific projects where you've successfully managed project planning and delivery. Highlighting your experience in collaborating with cross-functional teams will showcase your ability to drive project outcomes effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Research QinetiQ's recent projects and initiatives related to optical systems. Understanding their mission and values will help you align your responses during interviews, showing that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their innovative work.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Optical Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Principal Optical Engineer position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your extensive experience in an Optical Development environment. Provide specific examples of projects where you've developed high-power laser and optical systems, showcasing your technical expertise.
Showcase Your Qualifications: Clearly state your educational background, particularly if you have a Master’s or PhD in Physics or Engineering. If you have extensive industry experience instead, make sure to detail that as well, as it is an acceptable alternative.
Tailor Your Application: Customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the values and mission of QinetiQ. Mention your enthusiasm for innovation and teamwork, and how you can contribute to their goal of creating cutting-edge technology.
How to prepare for a job interview at QinetiQ
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As a Principal Optical Engineer, it's crucial to demonstrate your deep understanding of optical systems and high-power laser technology. Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've worked on, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them using your technical skills.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since the role involves engaging with senior internal and external stakeholders, practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with diverse teams and managed project delivery to meet customer requirements.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Familiarise yourself with QinetiQ's mission and values, especially their focus on innovation and teamwork. During the interview, express how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their inclusive workplace culture.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in complex engineering challenges. Think of situations where you've had to mature scientific concepts into practical applications and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
