Senior Optical Engineer

Senior Optical Engineer – Hybrid Role | Oxford | Up to £70k
Engineering & Software Development | Full-time

We are seeking an experienced Senior Optical Engineer to join a leading quantum technology company in Oxford. This hybrid role offers the chance to work on cutting-edge optical systems for quantum sensing and computing, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to translate experimental concepts into engineered solutions.

The Role:
As a Senior Optical Engineer, you will lead the design, analysis, and integration of optical systems, from laser sources to atom-based experiments. You will optimise, simulate, assemble, and characterise optical components and subsystems, ensuring high performance, stability, and reliability.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead development of optical systems for quantum sensing and computing, collaborating with physicists, mechanical, electrical, and software engineers.

• Design, simulate, and optimise optical systems (free space and fibre optics) including complex components such as lenses, SLMs, and DOEs.

• Align and integrate optical systems, validating performance through structured testing.

• Execute tolerance analysis and guide design decisions using simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, Zemax).

• Lead design reviews and maintain technical documentation.

Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Physics, or similar.

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in optical system design and integration.

• Hands-on experience with precision alignment of optical and laser systems.

• Proficiency with optical simulation tools and test equipment (beam profilers, polarimeters, optical spectrum analysers, photodiodes).

• Excellent communication and collaborative skills.

• Desirable: imaging system design, laser beam modulation/distribution, CAD experience (SolidWorks preferred).

Benefits:

• Competitive salary up to £70,000

• Hybrid working (up to 2 days from home)

• Unlimited PTO

• Generous 10% pension contribution

• Cycle-to-work and technology schemes

• Incentive Stock Option Plan

• Private healthcare after probation

Diversity & Inclusion:
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds. If you have the potential, even if you don’t meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply.