At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team developing cutting-edge optical technology and engage with global customers.
- Company: Heriot-Watt University, a leader in photonics research with exciting growth opportunities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 33 days holiday, and a pathway to a university spin-out company.
- Other info: Flexible working options available; applications considered on a rolling basis.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic environment shaping the future of photonics and technology commercialisation.
- Qualifications: PhD or MSc in Optics/Photonics, strong lab skills, and a passion for sales.
The predicted salary is between 37694 - 47389 £ per year.
Role: Technical Sales Engineer – Laser Manufacturing
Location: Riccarton Campus, Edinburgh
Salary: Grade 7 - £37,694 - £47,389 per annum
Contract Type: Full-Time (1FTE), Fixed Term (12 months)
Holiday Entitlement: 33 days annual leave, plus 9 buildings closed days.
Heriot-Watt University is seeking a highly motivated optical engineer to join our photonics research team as a Technical Sales Engineer, with a planned transition to a university spin-out company, Freeform Photonics, in July 2027. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge optical technology development in an academic environment and then move directly into a high-growth commercial venture.
The Role
- Experimental optical engineering and laser-based glass manufacturing.
- You will work within a team at Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, developing and manufacturing products for external customer applications.
- Active involvement with the sales and commercial team, including:
- Attending international trade shows
- Preparing reports and presentations for customers
- Meeting with global customers to understand their requirements and gather feedback on samples
- Supporting customer engagement and technical sales activities
- Development, testing, and characterisation of advanced optical/photonics systems.
- Close collaboration with academic and industrial partners
- From July 2027, expected transition into a technical sales role at Freeform Photonics, contributing to technology translation and commercial growth.
Essential Requirements
- PhD (ideal) or minimum MSc in Optics, Photonics, or a closely related field.
- Strong experimental background and confidence working independently in an optics laboratory.
- Genuine interest in commercialisation and contributing to sales activities.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a high level of English language proficiency.
- Willingness and enthusiasm for international travel (trade shows and customer visits).
- Motivation to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
What We Offer
- Opening to work in a leading photonics research environment with a defined pathway into an exciting university spin-out company.
- Exposure to both advanced R&D and customer-facing commercial activity.
- Opportunity to play a key role in shaping a growing photonics business.
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted via the Heriot-Watt online recruitment system and should include a (1) cover letter describing your interest and suitability for the post and a (2) Full CV. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, and the position will close once a suitable candidate is found. The final deadline will be 15 July 2026.
For further information and an informal discussion about the role, please contact Dr Calum Ross via email: Calum.Ross@hw.ac.uk
Heriot-Watt University is committed to securing equality of opportunity in employment and to the creation of an environment in which individuals are selected, trained, promoted, appraised and otherwise treated on the sole basis of their relevant merits and abilities. Equality and diversity are all about maximising potential and creating a culture of inclusion for all.
Heriot-Watt University values diversity across our university community and encourages applications from all sectors of society, particularly from underrepresented groups. We welcome and will consider flexible working patterns e.g. part-time working and job share options.
Technical Sales Engineer in Edinburgh employer: Heriot-Watt University
Heriot-Watt University offers an exceptional work environment for a Technical Sales Engineer, combining cutting-edge research in photonics with a clear pathway to a dynamic university spin-out, Freeform Photonics. Employees benefit from a generous holiday entitlement, opportunities for international travel, and a culture that values diversity and inclusion, fostering both personal and professional growth in a collaborative setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Sales Engineer in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend trade shows, workshops, and seminars related to optics and photonics. You never know who might be looking for someone just like you!
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your pitch! When you meet potential employers or clients, be ready to explain your skills and experiences clearly and confidently. Tailor your message to highlight how you can contribute to their projects, especially in technical sales.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after meetings! If you've had a chat with someone at a trade show or networking event, drop them a quick email to thank them for their time and reiterate your interest. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications come directly from motivated candidates. Make sure to showcase your passion for optical technology and sales in your cover letter and CV. Let's get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Sales Engineer in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to express your genuine interest in the Technical Sales Engineer role and highlight how your skills align with the job description. We want to see your passion for optics and photonics come through!
Tailor Your CV:Don’t just send out the same CV for every application. Tailor it to showcase your relevant experience in experimental optical engineering and any sales activities you've been involved in. We love seeing how you can contribute to our team!
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves customer engagement, make sure your written application reflects your excellent communication skills. Use clear and concise language, and don’t forget to proofread for any typos or errors. We appreciate attention to detail!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through the Heriot-Watt online recruitment system. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heriot-Watt University
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your optics and photonics knowledge. Be ready to discuss your experimental background and any relevant projects you've worked on. This role is technical, so showing that you can hold your own in a conversation about laser manufacturing will impress the interviewers.
✨Show Your Sales Savvy
Since this position involves customer engagement and sales activities, think of examples where you've successfully communicated complex technical information to non-technical audiences. Prepare to discuss how you would approach understanding customer requirements and gathering feedback.
✨Prepare for International Travel Questions
Given the role's emphasis on international trade shows and customer visits, be ready to talk about your willingness to travel. Share any past experiences you have with international work or travel, and express your enthusiasm for engaging with global customers.
✨Craft a Compelling Cover Letter
Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal and specific to the role. Highlight your interest in the transition to Freeform Photonics and how your skills align with their goals. A well-crafted cover letter can set you apart from other candidates.
