At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Optical Team as an Optical Analyst, supporting Earth Observation Payloads.
- Company: Be part of a cutting-edge company focused on space applications and optical engineering.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options and opportunities for professional growth in a high-tech environment.
- Why this job: Work on innovative projects that impact space technology and contribute to exciting design reviews.
- Qualifications: A relevant degree in engineering or physics, with 3-5 years of optical analysis experience required.
- Other info: Proficiency in ZEMAX and FRED is essential; creativity and problem-solving skills are a must.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Optical Team seeks an enthusiastic and committed Engineer to undertake the role of an Optical Analyst to work on Earth Observation Payloads.
Key Tasks
- Support the optical design, analysis and design tolerancing activities (optical ray-tracing models – ZEMAX), stray-light analysis (FRED) in compliance with the budget and planning defined for all phases of space optical instruments.
- Support the evaluation of different optical configurations of instruments, opto-mechanical tolerancing and participation in the drafting of specifications for the different components.
- Updating optical models from as-built data of the different optical components.
- Assist optical architects and optical system engineers by carrying out all the analyses necessary for the development and validation of instrument performance, both on the optical quality of the instruments and managing stray-light.
- Maintaining technical documents throughout the design lifecycle.
- Contributing and actively taking part in customer design reviews.
Person Specification
Experience
- Comprehensive knowledge of Optical Engineering, applied to space applications.
- 3-5 years experience in the field of optical analysis (calculations, simulation, etc.) and instrumentation, ideally in space.
- Opto-Mechanical knowledge to aid in optical system development.
- Validation and Verification, including testing.
- Experience within low volume, high technology manufacturing.
Knowledge & Skills
- Relevant degree in engineering, physics, optics or equivalent.
- Good working knowledge of ZEMAX (essential) and FRED for optical analysis, design optimisation, tolerancing and stray-light analysis.
- Good knowledge of optical components (mirrors, coatings, diffraction gratings, free form optics, lens combinations, integrating spheres, optical fibres, polarisation scramblers), different optical materials (IR, spatial compatible, etc.) as well as lasers.
- Proficiency in using mathematical scripting languages (MATLAB/Python/C) to analyse data.
- Demonstrated ability to understand complex optical systems and find the best design solutions.
- Self-motivated, creative, high attention to detail and accountable.
- Ability to work autonomously or within project team(s) and a real company player.
- Good communication skills able to work effectively with both customers, sub-contractors and suppliers.
- Ability to work under pressure in an organised and responsive manner.
- Flexible and adaptable to changing priorities.
- Creative problem solving.
- Good MS Office Skills.
Optical Analyst employer: Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd.
Contact Detail:
Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Optical Analyst
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific software tools mentioned in the job description, particularly ZEMAX and FRED. Consider taking online courses or tutorials to enhance your skills in these applications, as proficiency will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the optical engineering field, especially those who have experience in space applications. Attend industry conferences or webinars to make connections and learn about the latest trends and technologies that could be relevant to your role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous projects in detail during interviews. Be ready to explain how you approached optical analysis, design tolerancing, and any challenges you faced, as this will demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by preparing questions for the interviewers about their current projects and team dynamics. This not only demonstrates your interest in the role but also your ability to engage effectively with colleagues and clients.
We think you need these skills to ace Optical Analyst
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in Optical Engineering and any relevant projects you've worked on, especially those related to space applications. Emphasise your skills with ZEMAX and FRED, as well as your proficiency in MATLAB or Python.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Discuss how your background aligns with the key tasks mentioned in the job description, such as optical design and stray-light analysis. Be specific about your achievements in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Experience: When detailing your work experience, focus on your 3-5 years in optical analysis and instrumentation. Include examples of how you've contributed to optical system development and validation, and mention any experience with low volume, high technology manufacturing.
Showcase Soft Skills: Don't forget to mention your soft skills, such as communication and teamwork. Provide examples of how you've effectively collaborated with customers and suppliers, and how you've managed to work under pressure while maintaining attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Make sure to highlight your experience with ZEMAX and FRED during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you applied these tools, as well as any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Abilities
Prepare examples of complex optical problems you've solved in the past. Discuss your thought process and the steps you took to arrive at a solution, showcasing your creativity and analytical skills.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since good communication skills are essential for this role, practice explaining technical concepts in simple terms. This will help demonstrate your ability to work effectively with customers and team members who may not have a technical background.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle pressure and changing priorities. Think of scenarios from your previous work where you had to adapt quickly and how you managed to stay organised and responsive.