At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and integration of innovative laser ranging systems for Earth observation.
- Company: Foundational, a mission-driven startup tackling engineering challenges in space technology.
- Benefits: Ownership in projects, government-backed EMI options, and a collaborative work culture.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for innovation and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of space traffic control and climate monitoring.
- Qualifications: Experience in optical tracking, signal processing, and proficiency in Python.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
We are Foundational. Foundational is an early-stage, mission-driven startup solving one of the hardest engineering challenges of the decade: creating an exquisite, real-time understanding of Earth and orbit using ground-based lasers. We aren't just gathering data; we are building the platform that will enable the next generation of space traffic control, resilient navigation, and Earth observation - essential for the sustainability and resilience of the space domain, monitoring our climate and empowering the future economy. This mission, this technology will be foundational to the future of civilization.
The Role
As our core expert in optical tracking, you will be responsible for the full lifecycle of our SLR (Satellite Laser Ranging) and Space Debris Laser Ranging (SDLR) systems. You will bridge the gap between optical design, hardware integration, and the software algorithms required to close the link budget.
What You'll Be Doing
- System Modelling & Simulation: creating comprehensive models for SLR and SDLR performance, including radiometric link budgets, atmospheric transmission, and detector probability of detection.
- R&D of Novel Systems: Leading the design and integration of next-gen laser ranging architectures, selecting components (pulsed lasers, single-photon detectors, optics), and overseeing the assembly of optical benches.
- Advanced Data Processing: Developing novel algorithms to process raw time-of-flight data, filtering noise from background photons, and refining orbital determination accuracy.
- Deployment & Validation: managing the installation of optical ground stations and conducting rigorous Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) to validate ranging precision and pointing accuracy.
- Laser Safety Leadership: Acting as a subject matter expert for laser safety, performing risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with UK/EU standards (e.g., BS EN 60825) for outdoor laser propagation.
Essential Experience:
- Domain Expertise: Demonstrated experience designing, building, or operating SLR stations, Optical Ground Stations (OGS), or atmospheric LiDAR systems.
- Atmospheric Physics: A strong understanding of laser beam propagation through turbulent media, including beam wander, scintillation, and the use of link budgets to predict system return rates.
- Signal Processing: Proficiency in signal processing techniques specific to LiDAR/SLR (e.g., constant fraction discriminators, range gate optimization, and noise filtering algorithms).
- Timing Systems: Hands-on experience with high-precision timing hardware (Event Timers, GNSS synchronization, PTP/NTP protocols) and an understanding of jitter/latency sources.
- Software Stack: Strong proficiency in Python for instrument control (drivers, serial comms) and data analysis (NumPy, SciPy, Pandas). Experience with Linux environments is mandatory.
- Astronomy Hardware: Familiarity with telescope mounts (equatorial/Alt-Az), star tracking, and pointing models.
- Work Status: Must have the right to work in the UK.
- Proactive & Self-Motivated: You thrive in a startup environment where requirements evolve, and you are comfortable working with autonomy.
Bonus Points (We'd love it if you...)
- Experience with FPGA programming for timing applications.
- Familiarity with orbital mechanics (TLEs, CPF/CRD formats).
- Experience with optical design software (Zemax or Code V).
Why Join Us?
- A high-impact role with genuine ownership and autonomy in a new startup.
- Government backed EMI scheme options in a fast-growing VC backed startup.
- Dynamic and collaborative work environment: We foster a culture of innovation, creativity, and teamwork.
- Make a real impact: Your contributions will directly shape our product and company success.
- Opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology: Use your skills on meaningful, challenging and complex projects.
Satellite Laser Ranging 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 Satellite Laser Ranging 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 Satellite Laser Ranging 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 Satellite Laser Ranging 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 Satellite Laser Ranging Engineer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Satellite Laser Ranging 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.
