Senior Optical Engineer
Meet Our Recruiter
About the Role
About the Client:
Our client is a global leader in designing and manufacturing specialised components and subsystems for industries like space, aerospace, defence, and healthcare. Based in Chelmsford, they develop innovative solutions for space exploration, satellite communications, and advanced imaging technologies. With a focus on R&D, they collaborate with leading space agencies to deliver high-performance products, from space-qualified RF power systems to cutting-edge imaging sensors.
Position Overview:
Our client Engineering Team is seeking a dynamic, organised, and proactive Optical Engineer to oversee the optical design and analysis for an exciting new payload for ESA. The Optical Engineer will collaborate with the project team and subcontractor to ensure the payload's optical design, assembly, integration, and verification meet project requirements.
Key Responsibilities:
- Review and provide feedback on optical design, analysis, and documentation, balancing technical requirements with programmatic and budget constraints.
- Support project teams on optical design and analysis throughout the project lifecycle.
- Work with subcontractors, customers, and suppliers to deliver an optical design solution that meets project requirements from concept through to manufacture, system integration, and verification.
- Advise on risks, programmatic, and budgetary issues related to proposed designs.
- Train and mentor team members on optical design, analysis, and technology.
- Contribute to the preparation of bid and proposal material.
Qualifications:
- Comprehensive knowledge of optical design for space applications, with understanding of related disciplines (electronics, opto-mechanics, image processing, and electro-optical device physics).
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple optical design issues and review subcontractor designs, along with basic opto-mechanical knowledge.
- Familiarity with engineering lifecycle and requirements management, as well as materials and component selection in the space domain.
- Experience with AIV of optical payloads and OGSE is desirable.
- BSc in Optics, Physics, or Engineering, with proven optical design experience.
- High proficiency in optical design software (e.g., Optic Studio/Zemax) and knowledge of design tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Ansys, SigFit, Python) is desirable.
- Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and excellent at planning and organizing; able to work autonomously or within teams, managing subcontractors.
- Recognized for delivering results and adaptable to changing priorities.
- Strong teamwork, communication skills, and knowledge of spacecraft systems and materials is an advantage.
- Proficient in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and Microsoft Project, with familiarity in quality management requirements.
What the Client Offers:
- Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
- A progressive vacation plan that grows with years of service.
- Sick Leave Benefits
- Paid Holidays
- Retirement Plan
- Employee Assistance Programs for mental health, financial, and legal support.
- Professional Development
- Wellness Programs