Foundational
Electro-Optical Engineer (Space Systems)
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Electro-Optical Engineer (Space Systems)
Electro-Optical Engineer (Space Systems)
We are Foundational. We're an early-stage, mission-driven startup tackling complex challenges to create the most precise understanding of space and Earth using ground-based lasers.
We are developing next-generation technologies for Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR) and Space Situational Awareness (SSA). Our products combine advanced optics, photonics, electronics, and space systems engineering to provide novel capabilities for tracking and characterising objects in orbit.
As a growing startup, we address technically challenging problems and rapidly deliver new ideas into operational products.
Position Overview
We are seeking an Electro-Optical Engineer to lead the development of optical and photonic subsystems that form the core of our SLR and SSA products. The role is primarily focused on space hardware but may also include ground system work as needed.
This position centres on the design, development, integration, and testing of laser-based and optical sensing systems, with a focus on:
- Electronics
- Optical architectures
- Instrument performance
The ideal candidate will take responsibility for projects from early concept development to detailed design, laboratory validation, qualification, and deployment. This hands-on role requires expertise in modelling optical systems, designing supporting electronics, and troubleshooting hardware in the lab.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop optical and electro-optical subsystems for satellite laser ranging and space situational awareness applications
- Develop optical architectures incorporating:
- Lasers
- Detectors
- Filters
- Lenses
- Mirrors
- Retroreflectors
- Opto-mechanical assemblies
- Support design and specification of analogue and mixed-signal electronics for:
- Detector readout
- Timing
- Control
- Data acquisition
- Perform:
- Optical performance modelling
- Signal-to-noise analysis
- Stray light analysis
- Error budgeting
- Define subsystem requirements and verification approaches
- Lead laboratory integration, alignment, characterisation, and performance testing
- Support environmental testing and qualification of space hardware
- Collaborate closely with systems, software, and mechanical engineers to deliver integrated products
- Contribute to new sensing concepts and product opportunities within the SSA domain
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Required Qualifications
(Candidates with the right mindset are encouraged to apply—prioritising adaptability to startup work and product ownership.)
- Several years of experience developing electro-optical or photonic systems from concept through testing and validation
- Strong understanding of:
- Optical system design
- Performance analysis
- Experience with:
- Lasers
- Photodetectors
- Imaging sensors
- Precision optical instrumentation
- Experience with analogue or mixed-signal electronics design for optical systems
- Strong laboratory skills, including:
- Optical alignment
- System integration and troubleshooting
- Ability to independently own technical work packages and drive them to completion
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Preferred Skills
- Experience with flight hardware and/or qualifying flight hardware for space applications
- Degree in Physics, Optical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Photonics, or a related discipline
- Experience with:
- Laser ranging
- Lidar
- Optical communications
- Remote sensing
- Astronomy instrumentation
- Precision metrology systems
- Familiarity with:
- Single-photon detectors
- Avalanche photodiodes (APDs)
- SPADs
- Photomultiplier tubes (PMTs)
- Time-correlated measurement systems
- Experience with optical design and modelling tools, such as:
- Zemax OpticStudio
- Code V
- Equivalent software
- Understanding of:
- Timing systems
- Precision measurement electronics
- Low-noise signal acquisition
- Experience with environmental qualification and reliability testing
- Familiarity with ECSS, ESA, or other space-industry engineering standards
What We Offer
- Opportunity to develop novel technologies at the forefront of Satellite Laser Ranging and Space Situational Awareness
- Ownership of critical electro-optical subsystems from concept to deployment
- Work with a highly technical, multidisciplinary team
- Influence over product direction and technology strategy in a fast-growing company
- EMI options and equity in a VC-backed startup within the spacetech industry
- Generous compensation and pension contributions
- Offices in central London (Borough/London Bridge) with:
- Snacks, tea, coffee, and regular social events
- Dynamic, hands-on, and mission-driven work culture
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