Optical Systems Engineer

About Archangel Lightworks

Archangel Lightworks is a connectivity company building wireless technology to create the space-enabled networks of the future. Were passionate about improving humanitys communications infrastructure and solving some of Earths 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.

Role Overview

Were 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.

Responsibilities

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.

Desirableadditional 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

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

Compensation Perks: The 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.