At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop cutting-edge optical systems for space applications.
- Company: Exciting early-stage startup focused on space technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, EMI options, and generous pension contributions.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team in central London with great perks and career growth.
- Why this job: Lead innovative projects that shape the future of space exploration.
- Qualifications: Experience in electro-optical systems and a passion for space tech.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.
We are Foundational. We're an early-stage, mission-driven startup tackling one of the most exciting and complex challenges today to create the most precise understanding of space and earth using ground-based lasers. We are developing next-generation technologies for Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR) and Space Situational Awareness (SSA). Our products combine advanced optics, photonics, electronics, and space systems engineering to create novel capabilities for tracking and characterising objects in orbit.
As a growing startup, we work on technically challenging problems and rapidly transform new ideas into operational products.
Position Overview
We are seeking an Electro-Optical Engineer to lead the development of optical and photonic subsystems that form the core of our SLR and SSA products. The role will primarily be focused on space hardware but may also feature work on the ground segment of the system as required. This role is focused on the design, development, integration, and testing of laser-based and optical sensing systems, with particular emphasis on electronics, optical architectures, and instrument performance. You will take responsibility for projects from early concept development through detailed design, laboratory validation, qualification, and deployment. The role requires a hands-on engineer who is equally comfortable modelling an optical system, designing supporting electronics, and troubleshooting hardware in the lab.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop optical and electro-optical subsystems for satellite laser ranging and space situational awareness applications.
- Develop optical architectures incorporating lasers, detectors, filters, lenses, mirrors, retroreflectors, and associated opto-mechanical assemblies.
- Support design and specification of supporting analogue and mixed-signal electronics for detector readout, timing, control, and data acquisition.
- Perform optical performance modelling, signal-to-noise analysis, stray light analysis, and error budgeting.
- Define subsystem requirements and verification approaches.
- Lead laboratory integration, alignment, characterisation, and performance testing activities.
- Support environmental testing and qualification activities for space hardware.
- Work closely with systems, software, and mechanical engineers to deliver integrated products.
- Contribute to the development of new sensing concepts and product opportunities within the SSA domain.
Required Qualifications
Please note that even if not all of these are met, candidates with the right mindset are still encouraged to apply. This includes being keen to work in a startup, lead your own projects, and own development of a product from concept to qualification.
- Several years of experience developing electro-optical or photonic systems from concept through testing and validation.
- Strong understanding of optical system design and performance analysis.
- Experience working with lasers, photodetectors, imaging sensors, or precision optical instrumentation.
- Experience designing and testing analogue or mixed-signal electronics associated with optical systems.
- Strong laboratory skills, including optical alignment, system integration, and troubleshooting.
- Ability to independently own technical work packages and drive them to completion.
Preferred Skills
- Experience working with flight hardware and/or qualifying flight hardware for space applications.
- Degree in Physics, Optical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Photonics, or a related discipline.
- Experience with laser ranging, lidar, optical communications, remote sensing, astronomy instrumentation, or precision metrology systems.
- Familiarity with single-photon detectors, avalanche photodiodes (APDs), SPADs, PMTs, or time-correlated measurement systems.
- Experience with optical design and modelling tools such as Zemax OpticStudio, Code V, or equivalent.
- Understanding of timing systems, precision measurement electronics, and low-noise signal acquisition.
- Experience with environmental qualification and reliability testing.
- Familiarity with ECSS, ESA, or other space-industry engineering standards.
What We Offer
- Develop novel technologies at the forefront of Satellite Laser Ranging and Space Situational Awareness.
- Own critical electro-optical subsystems from concept to deployment.
- Work in a highly technical, multidisciplinary team.
- Influence product direction and technology strategy in a rapidly growing company.
- EMI options in a fast-growing VC backed startup in the spacetech industry.
- Generous compensation and pension contributions.
- Offices in central London right in the heart of Borough and London Bridge with snacks, tea, coffee and regular socials.
Electro-Optical Engineer (Space Systems) in London employer: Foundational
At Foundational, we pride ourselves on being an innovative startup at the forefront of space technology, offering our Optical Payload Systems Engineers a unique opportunity to work on groundbreaking projects that have a real impact on the future of Earth observation and space traffic control. Our collaborative and dynamic work culture fosters creativity and teamwork, while providing ample opportunities for personal and professional growth in a hands-on environment. With genuine ownership of your work and the chance to contribute to cutting-edge solutions, you'll find a rewarding career path that aligns with your passion for space and technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Electro-Optical Engineer (Space Systems) in London
✨Join Aerospace Forums and Groups
Get involved in aerospace engineering forums and online communities, like the AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics). It's a great way to meet industry peers and stay updated on job openings and trends in the field.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye on upcoming aerospace conferences and events where you can network with professionals and showcase your interest. Events like the Farnborough International Airshow are not just about flying machines; they're a goldmine for connections and potential job leads.
✨Spotlight Your Projects
Make sure to highlight any hands-on experience or projects on your portfolio that showcase your skills in aerospace engineering. Employers love seeing practical applications of theoretical knowledge. Show us what you've got!
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
When you find companies you want to work for, head straight to their careers page to apply for full-time roles, like the one with Foundational for a Electro-Optical Engineer (Space Systems). This often puts your application in front of the right people faster than just waiting for job boards!
We think you need these skills to ace Electro-Optical Engineer (Space Systems) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for the aerospace engineering role at Foundational, make sure to highlight your technical expertise. Include specific software skills, like CAD tools or simulation software, and any relevant engineering projects you’ve worked on. This is your chance to really shine and showcase your engineering toolkit!
Don't Skip Your Projects!:Include a section in your CV dedicated to projects that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities in aerospace engineering. Whether it's a university project, an internship, or personal work, we love seeing how you’ve applied your skills in real-world scenarios. Make it clear what your role was and the impact of the project.
Show Your Passion in Your Cover Letter:At Foundational, we're not just looking for skills – we want to know why you’re passionate about aerospace engineering. Use your cover letter to express what excites you about aviation technology and your career goals. Share any relevant experiences or inspirations that have led you to apply for this full-time position.
Tailor Your CV for Aerospace:Make sure your CV is specifically tailored to aerospace engineering. Focus on your education, any certifications, and your work experience, ensuring you highlight aspects that relate directly to the role. Don’t forget to mention any internships or apprenticeships that have given you hands-on experience.
How to prepare for a job interview at Foundational
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Aerospace engineering is all about technical precision, so make sure you’re comfortable with key concepts like aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials science. We recommend going through any relevant coursework or projects you’ve worked on – these real-world examples can illustrate your understanding during the interview with Foundational.
✨Showcase Your Projects with Confidence
Make sure to have a portfolio ready that details any significant projects you've worked on, whether it’s a group assignment or a personal endeavour. Be prepared to discuss the challenges you faced, the tools you used, like CAD software, and what you learned from the experience, as this will show your problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Technical Interviews
Expect some technical questions or even problem-solving exercises during your interview with Foundational. Get familiar with design challenges or theoretical problems related to aerospace; this can range from calculating lift and drag forces to materials selection under stress. Practising these can help you feel more at ease when faced with tricky questions.
✨Emphasise Your Passion and Teamwork Skills
As a full-time candidate, it’s crucial to convey your passion for aerospace engineering and your ability to work in teams. Highlight any group projects or internships you've done, focusing on how you collaborated with others to achieve a goal. Companies like Foundational love seeing candidates who not only have technical skills but also fit well within their team culture.
