At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and integrate optical systems using lasers, lenses, and cameras to enhance national security.
- Company: Fast-growing tech company focused on protecting critical infrastructure with innovative solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and a chance to work with cutting-edge technology.
- Other info: Join a multidisciplinary team and enjoy a vibrant workplace near Cambridge.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in national security while developing your engineering skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 1st class degree in Physics or Electronics and hands-on experience with optical engineering.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
The experience expected from applicants, as well as additional skills and qualifications needed for this job are listed below.
Integrating optical technologies to help defend critical infrastructure. This fast-growing company is leveraging AI and other advanced technologies to help protect critical national infrastructure (both civilian and military) from rapidly evolving threats such as drone incursions. To help bring their projects to fruition, they are seeking an experienced Optical Engineer to join their multidisciplinary development team.
In this hands-on engineering role, you will design systems incorporating lasers, lenses, and cameras. You will co-operate closely with colleagues from disciplines such as electronics, software, and AI, taking products from initial concepts through verification and trouble-shooting to production-readiness. To thrive in this role, you will need to combine excellent theoretical knowledge with an enthusiasm and aptitude for practical engineering.
This is a great opportunity to help bring high technology products to market that will help deter threats and keep the public safe. Joining a fast growing company will provide scope for career growth and expanding your portfolio of skills.
You will need:
- An excellent academic background with a 1st class degree in Physics, Electronics, or similar subject and a strong theoretical understanding of optics and optical engineering.
- Practical hands-on optical engineering experience including lasers (and laser safety!), lenses, and beam paths. You will be taking designs beyond the optical bench stage, integrating optical components with supporting electromechanical systems.
- Self motivation and the ability to take the initiative in driving your work forward.
- Ideally, some exposure to using machine learning techniques for machine vision.
- Full, existing UK work permission, a driving licence, and the ability to obtain a UK security clearance.
The role is based south of Cambridge in the near term, later moving to offices in central Cambridge. A highly competitive package is on offer to the successful candidate.
Optical Engineer in Draycott employer: ECM Selection
This defence company is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where talented electronics engineers can thrive. With a strong focus on employee growth through mentorship and project leadership opportunities, the company fosters a collaborative culture that values innovation in high-stakes projects. Located just north of Cheltenham, employees benefit from competitive remuneration packages, including regular salary reviews and a generous pension scheme, making it a rewarding place to build a meaningful career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Optical Engineer in Draycott
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Optical Engineer role you’re after at ECM Selection.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at ECM Selection a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at ECM Selection.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Optical Engineer at ECM Selection, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Optical Engineer in Draycott
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Optical Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at ECM Selection a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to ECM Selection specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at ECM Selection
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with ECM Selection, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like ECM Selection want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
