Job Description
Space Optical Systems Engineer
Location: UK / Europe (Hybrid / Remote options)
Contract Length: Initial 2 months (possible extension)
Start: ASAP
We’re supporting a cutting‑edge space‑technology organisation developing advanced optical communication capabilities for next‑generation satellite systems. They’re seeking a Space Optical Systems Engineer on a short‑term contract to accelerate delivery across several mission‑critical optical development workstreams.
This role suits someone who can drop into a fast‑moving environment, own technical packages, and deliver high‑quality optical engineering outputs with minimal ramp‑up time.
The Role
You’ll contribute to the design, modelling, and integration of space‑based optical communication systems, including terminals, opto‑mechanical assemblies, and PAT (pointing, acquisition, tracking) subsystems. The work blends optical engineering, systems thinking, and software development, supporting both design and verification activities.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and refine optical system designs, including modelling, simulation, and performance analysis
- Produce optical link budgets, alignment tolerances, and system‑level performance assessments
- Support integration of optical terminals, opto‑electronic components, and PAT mechanisms
- Build or enhance software tools for modelling, simulation, and test automation (Python/C++/MATLAB)
- Contribute to verification, environmental testing, and optical alignment activities
- Generate technical documentation, design artefacts, and review materials aligned with space‑industry standards
- Collaborate with internal engineering teams and external partners to progress optical development packages
What You’ll Bring
- Strong background in optical engineering, photonics, or opto‑electronic systems
- Experience working within ESA‑style environments or similar high‑reliability space programmes
- Proficiency with optical modelling tools (e.g., Zemax, Code V, MATLAB, Python)
- Hands‑on experience with optical hardware, alignment, and lab‑based testing
- Solid understanding of optical communication principles, free‑space optics, and beam propagation
- Software engineering capability in Python, C++, or similar, ideally applied to modelling or control systems
- Strong systems engineering awareness: requirements, verification, interfaces, configuration control
Nice to Have
- Experience with lasercom, free‑space optical terminals, or precision opto‑mechanical design
- Exposure to AIT, or clean‑room optical assembly
- Understanding of space environmental constraints (thermal, vibration, radiation)
- Familiarity with satellite networks or constellation‑level optical architectures
Why This Contract?
- Immediate impact on a high‑profile optical communications programme
- Opportunity to shape next‑gen optical payload technologies
- Strong potential for extension as the programme scales
- Work at the intersection of optics, software, and advanced space systems
For more information, please apply now.