At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and test innovative laser communication systems for extreme environments.
- Company: Join Archangel Lightworks, a pioneering connectivity start-up with a mission to improve global communications.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, 25 days leave, equity options, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with excellent growth opportunities and regular social events.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on humanity's future while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in optical systems design and hands-on testing required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 € per year.
Archangel Lightworks is a connectivity company building wireless technology to create the space-enabled networks of the future. We’re passionate about improving humanity’s communications infrastructure and solving some of Earth’s most critical problems from economic inclusion to climate change. Our start-up is a fast-paced and supportive environment, where you can make your mark as part of a growing team and work on the cutting-edge of innovation.
We’re looking for an Optical Engineer with both design and Assembly Integration and Test experience to join our engineering team and deliver transformative laser communications technology. You will be responsible for the development of our optical subsystems, from requirements definition to testing in the field. In this role, you will work closely with our Product Technical Lead and optical engineering team.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Design of laser communication terminal optical/photonic sub-systems for extreme environments
- Requirement definition and trade off analysis for complex optical/photonics systems, finding the optimal balance of performance against cost
- Modelling of optical system performance, optimisation and tolerancing
- Conducting practical breadboard testing to validate modelled data
- Assembling, integrating and testing subsystems
- Supporting system level testing and trials
- Being a subject matter expert for optical and photonic systems
- Managing suppliers of optical and photonic components
- Providing technical leadership of subsystem development projects
Requirements:
- Experience defining requirements on optical systems, modelling and performing trades studies to inform design selection
- Optical design/analysis experience using Zemax or similar software for design, optimisation and tolerancing (Sequential, non-sequential desirable)
- Hands‑on experience with photonic components and systems, including lasers (CW and pulsed), optical detectors/receivers, modulators, and fibre/free-space optics, with a solid understanding of underlying physical principles and performance trade-offs
- Hands‑on lab experience designing and carrying out tests for relevant optical systems
Desirable additional skills:
- Experience with electronics for optoelectronic systems, including analogue front-ends, high-speed data converters, embedded/FPGAs, and power/EMI/thermal considerations
- Experience with optical or RF communication systems, including modulation schemes, error correction, FPGA/SDR modem implementation, and relevant protocols (e.g. CCSDS, SpaceWire, Ethernet)
- Experience with high power lasers, optical amplifiers, and relevant safety requirements
- Experience with optical instrument calibration and alignment, and procedure definition
Location: Our office is based in Osney Mead, Oxford. There will be opportunity to work from home as agreed with your line manager.
Compensation & Perks:
- Opportunity to make a difference building cutting edge technology to support a world-changing vision
- Options for hybrid working and custom arrangements that matter to you
- 25 days annual leave allowance plus bank holidays
- Equity options in a growing start-up
- Investment in you to help you grow, with training resources and budget
- Supportive team culture with high levels of ownership and responsibility
- Annual team retreat, regular socials and weekly team lunch
- Variety of additional perks including learning and wellbeing app subscriptions
Optical Systems Engineer in Oxford employer: P Ducker Systems Ltd
Archangel Lightworks is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive environment where Optical Systems Engineers can thrive while contributing to groundbreaking wireless technology. With a strong focus on employee growth, the company provides extensive training resources, equity options, and a culture that encourages innovation and collaboration, all set in the vibrant city of Oxford. Enjoy the flexibility of hybrid working arrangements, generous annual leave, and a variety of team-building activities that foster a sense of community and purpose.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Optical Systems Engineer in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Archangel Lightworks on LinkedIn or attend industry events. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your experience with optical systems and any hands-on projects you've tackled. This will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready for technical questions! Brush up on your knowledge of laser communication systems and be prepared to discuss your design and testing experiences. Confidence in your expertise can really impress.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our innovative team at Archangel Lightworks.
We think you need these skills to ace Optical Systems Engineer in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Optical Systems Engineer role. Highlight your experience with optical systems, modelling, and any hands-on lab work you've done. We want to see how your skills match up with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about our mission at Archangel Lightworks and how your background makes you a perfect fit for the team. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality!
Showcase Relevant Projects:If you've worked on any projects related to laser communications or optical systems, make sure to mention them! We’re interested in seeing how you've applied your skills in real-world scenarios, so don’t hold back on the details.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to submit all your materials in one go. Plus, it helps us keep track of your application better!
How to prepare for a job interview at P Ducker Systems Ltd
✨Know Your Optical Systems Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of optical systems, especially those relevant to laser communications. Be prepared to discuss your experience with Zemax or similar software, and how you've tackled design challenges in the past.
✨Showcase Your Hands-On Experience
Since practical lab experience is key for this role, come ready to share specific examples of tests you've designed and conducted. Highlight any projects where you assembled, integrated, or tested optical subsystems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on skills.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Archangel Lightworks is all about improving communication infrastructure. Familiarise yourself with their mission and think about how your work as an Optical Systems Engineer can contribute to solving global issues like climate change. This shows you're not just technically skilled but also aligned with their vision.
✨Prepare for Technical Leadership Questions
As a potential technical leader, be ready to discuss how you've managed projects or led teams in the past. Think about times when you provided guidance on subsystem development and how you handled supplier relationships for optical components.
