Sr Advanced Optical Engineer

We are seeking an experienced Sr Advanced Optical Engineer to join our team as a Ground Segment Engineer in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, supporting the development, integration, and operation of advanced optical ground systems.

This role focuses on optical telescope systems and their associated backend infrastructure, with opportunities to contribute to cutting‑edge programmes at the intersection of space, photonics, and secure communications.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, development, and integration of optical ground segment systems, including optical telescopes and associated opto‑mechanical subsystems
• Definition and management of optical system requirements, interfaces, and performance budgets
• Support backend systems associated with optical payloads, including detectors, control electronics, data acquisition, and signal processing chains
• Participation in system‑level activities including trade studies, design reviews, verification, and validation
• Development and execution of test and calibration procedures for optical ground equipment
• Support commissioning and operational activities, including troubleshooting and performance optimisation
• Collaboration with software, systems, and operations engineers to ensure end‑to‑end system performance

Key Skills and Qualifications

• Degree (or higher) in Optical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, Astronomy, or a related discipline
• Practical experience with optical telescope systems, such as alignment, characterisation, and performance analysis
• Strong understanding of optics and photonics fundamentals, including imaging systems, detectors, and optical propagation
• Experience working on ground segment or laboratory‑based optical systems
• Familiarity with backend elements such as sensors, readout electronics, timing, data handling, or control systems
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary engineering environment and contribute to technical documentation

Desirable Experience

• Experience with quantum photonics or quantum‑enabled optical systems (e.g. single‑photon sources/detectors, quantum communications, or QKD‑related systems)
• Knowledge of free‑space optical links or atmospheric optics
• Exposure to space or aerospace programmes and relevant engineering lifecycle standards
• Experience with modelling, simulation, or data analysis tools (e.g. MATLAB, Python, optical design software such as Zemax)

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform crucial job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.