Laser & Optical Engineers (Senior & Principal)

Overview

In this role you will lead and shape the development of advanced laser and optical systems within a multidisciplinary team, taking concepts through to manufacture and deployment. You will influence technology roadmaps, mentor engineers, and drive delivery on strategically important programmes that underpin UK defence capabilities. The role offers impact across high-energy laser capabilities and customer-facing delivery, with clear professional progression paths.

Pay / Benefits

• Matched contribution pension scheme with life assurance
• Generous holiday allowance
• Health and Dental Insurance options
• Employee discount portal
• Volunteering opportunities
• Armed Forces Covenant support and Defence Employer Recognition Scheme

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, integration and technical delivery of complex laser and optical systems
• Drive product maturity from development through to manufacture and qualification
• Shape technology and product roadmaps, influencing future capability
• Build trusted relationships with customers and key stakeholders
• Mentor and develop engineers, strengthening technical capability across the business
• Champion engineering excellence and support the successful delivery of critical programmes

Key requirements

• Experience developing complex products and systems from concept to manufacture or deployment
• Expertise in Laser Engineering, Optical Engineering, Photonics or Electro-Optics, Optical System Design, Product Design & Development, Design for Manufacture (DfM) and Production Engineering, Systems Integration, Verification & Qualification, Optical Modelling and Simulation, Beam Control, Experimental Optics, Systems Engineering
• Experience in defence is welcome but not essential; cross-sector experience accepted

• Stakeholder engagement
• Mentoring and people development
• Leadership and strategic thinking
• Laser Engineering
• Optical Engineering
• Photonic / Electro-Optic

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