At a Glance
- Tasks: Own the laser subsystem for satellite ranging, ensuring precision and reliability.
- Company: Join a pioneering spacetech company backed by top investors and agencies.
- Benefits: Enjoy EMI share options, 25 days leave, and a vibrant office culture.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in space technology while working with cutting-edge lasers.
- Qualifications: Experience with pulsed lasers and strong beam characterisation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
This is a future role. We're building a shortlist now and will contact you when it opens.
About us
Foundational is building the most precise picture of Earth and orbit, using lasers fired from the ground. We call it ground truth for orbit. We design and run low-cost, autonomous satellite laser ranging stations. They measure the distance to satellites with extreme precision, day and night. Our data platform turns those measurements into tracking data and orbit products for satellite operators, space agencies and governments. We also build our own flight-proven laser retroreflector arrays, so any satellite can be tracked. Our station network is expanding across continents. The data supports resilient navigation, Earth observation and the safe, sustainable use of space. We're a small, fast-moving team of engineers, scientists and operators in London. We're backed by venture investors and supported by ESA, the UK Space Agency, and Innovate UK.
Position Overview
London · Full time · On-site
Pulsed lasers are the heart of satellite laser ranging. You'll own the laser subsystem in our stations: selection, integration and reliability, plus the supply chain behind it.
What you'll do
- Specify, select and qualify pulsed laser sources with suppliers
- Integrate lasers into the station, including beam delivery, cooling, power, control and safety interlocks
- Characterise laser performance, and build test rigs to track it over the station's life
- Improve reliability so lasers run unattended at remote sites
- Manage laser damage risk across the optical train with the optics team
- Support laser safety cases and documentation for each site
What you'll bring
- Experience working with short-pulse solid-state or fibre lasers, in industry or research
- Beam characterisation skills: M², pulse width, energy and pointing stability
- Laser safety knowledge (IEC 60825 or equivalent)
- Confidence working with suppliers on specifications and failure investigations
Nice to have
- Satellite laser ranging or lidar experience
- Laser-induced damage threshold testing
- Harmonic generation
- Lasers deployed in the field
What We Offer
- A high-impact role with real ownership at an early-stage, venture-backed spacetech company
- EMI share options (UK employees)
- 25 Days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays
- Enhanced Parental Leave
- Cycle to work schemes
- Work alongside engineers and scientists across optics, lasers, software and astrodynamics
- Offices in central London, with snacks, tea, coffee and regular socials
We actively champion underrepresented groups and seek to bridge gaps in our workforce. Building the best team is our priority.
Laser Engineer in London employer: Lumi Space
Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and collaboration in the heart of the tech industry. As a Controls Engineer, you'll be part of a dynamic team dedicated to developing cutting-edge control systems, with ample opportunities for professional growth and learning. Our inclusive work culture encourages creativity and supports diversity, making it an ideal environment for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Laser Engineer in London
✨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 Laser Engineer role you’re after at Lumi Space.
✨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 Lumi Space 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 Lumi Space.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Laser Engineer at Lumi Space, 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 Laser Engineer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Laser 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 Lumi Space 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 Lumi Space 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 Lumi Space
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Lumi Space, 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 Lumi Space 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.
