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- Tasks: Join our team to develop cutting-edge electro-optic targeting and surveillance systems.
- Company: Leonardo is a leader in advanced technology, creating innovative solutions in optics.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options and opportunities for continuous technical skill development.
- Why this job: Be part of a multi-disciplinary team making a real impact in the optical engineering field.
- Qualifications: A second class upper degree in Physics or Opto-Electronics is essential; experience with optical design tools preferred.
- Other info: Applicants must meet UK Security Clearance and ITAR requirements.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Are you an Optical Engineer who wants to join us in the development of the next generation of industry-leading electro-optic targeting & surveillance, targeting lasers, and high-energy laser delivery systems? Each of these technologies is based upon sophisticated and complex optical design solutions created by our UK team and manufactured in our state-of-the-art facilities in Essex and Edinburgh.
As a member of a multi-disciplinary Engineering Team, the Optical Engineer will collaborate with peers in the development of novel solutions in multi-spectral wavebands (infrared and visible) and will build on decades of domain-leading heritage. All members of the Engineering Team are encouraged to continually develop their technical skills within design, (structural & thermal) analyses, and model-driven engineering aspects of Mechanical Engineering. Leonardo offers a mixture of on-site and remote working, with attendance at our facility in Essex required when programme requirements dictate. Applicants must be eligible to meet full UK Security Clearance and ITAR classification requirements.
What you will do in your role as an Optical Engineer:
- Involved in the research, development, and manufacturing phases of the Optical Engineering lifecycle
- Contribute to systems architecture and requirements
- Optical design and development of simple and complex Electro-Optical Systems
- Conduct lens and optical performance analysis/simulations
- Ensure quality and consistency of detailed design, including numerical calculations, tolerance studies, etc.
- Support the integration and testing of Electro-Optical Systems
- Engagement with optical sub-contractor partners/suppliers
- Involvement in reviews of optical designs in accordance with business and industry standards and knowledge of ISO 10110
What we need from you:
Essential Skills, Qualifications, and Experience:
- A minimum of a second class upper degree in: Physics or Opto-Electronics
- A proven understanding of classical optics principles
- Lens design and optical analysis
- Experience in the use of industry-recognised tools i.e. OpticStudio, Code V, FRED, etc.
- An appreciation of Mechanical and Electronics designs associated with Electro-Optical Systems
- Problem-solving using a structured, logical approach to investigate issues and problems effectively.
- Involvement in the testing and manufacture of optical systems (demonstration models or volume production)
Desirable:
- MSc or PhD in an applied optics field or related
- Experience in the definition and commissioning of Optical Testing
- Knowledge of laser optics
- Electro-Optical Systems modelling (range performance, sensors, etc.)
- Model-Based Design
- Numerical, programming, and symbolic software (MATLAB, Mathematica, Python, C++, etc.)
- Support the creation of functional processes and best practices
Primary Location: GB - Basildon
Contract Type: Hybrid Working
Senior Optical Engineer employer: Leonardo UK Ltd
Contact Detail:
Leonardo UK Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Optical Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in optical engineering, particularly in electro-optic systems. This will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your passion and commitment to the field during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the optical engineering community, especially those who work in similar roles or companies. Attend industry conferences or webinars to make connections that could lead to valuable insights or referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Gain hands-on experience with industry-recognised tools like OpticStudio or Code V. If you can, work on personal projects or contribute to open-source projects that showcase your skills in lens design and optical analysis.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on classical optics principles and problem-solving techniques. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you approached them logically and effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Optical Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in optical engineering, particularly focusing on your understanding of classical optics principles and any experience with industry-recognised tools like OpticStudio or Code V. Customise your CV to reflect the specific skills and qualifications mentioned in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Discuss how your background in physics or opto-electronics aligns with the requirements of the position. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and your involvement in the testing and manufacture of optical systems.
Highlight Relevant Skills: When detailing your skills, emphasise your experience with optical design and analysis, as well as any programming skills you possess (e.g., MATLAB, Python). Make sure to mention your ability to work collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team, as this is crucial for the role.
Proofread and Format: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. Ensure that your CV and cover letter are well-formatted and easy to read. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is essential for an Optical Engineer.
How to prepare for a job interview at Leonardo UK Ltd
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of classical optics principles and your experience with industry-recognised tools like OpticStudio or Code V. Highlight specific projects where you applied these skills, as this will demonstrate your capability to contribute effectively to the team.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've approached complex problems in previous roles. Use a structured, logical approach to explain how you identified issues and implemented solutions, particularly in the context of optical systems testing and manufacturing.
✨Understand the Company’s Vision
Research Leonardo's current projects and technologies, especially in electro-optic targeting and surveillance. Showing that you understand their mission and how your skills align with their goals can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
During the interview, ask insightful questions about the team dynamics and ongoing projects. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values and work style.
