Senior Optical Engineer

A leading quantum computing organisation is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to play a key role in the development of advanced, scalable quantum hardware systems. This position sits within a high-impact hardware engineering team responsible for translating scientific breakthroughs into real-world, deployable products.

This is an opportunity for an experienced engineer to contribute as a senior individual contributor, combining deep technical expertise in optics with practical engineering experience in an industry environment.

• Collaborate with physicists and cross-functional teams to define requirements and architect optical systems, subsystems, and components across the full product lifecycle (R&D through to deployment and support).
• Design and develop advanced optical and opto-mechanical systems for quantum computing platforms.
• Drive continuous improvement and innovation in engineering practices through research and problem-solving.
• Partner closely with research teams to translate scientific advances into scalable product solutions.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues both on-site and at customer installations.

• Bachelor’s degree in optics, optical engineering, applied physics, or a related field (Master’s or PhD preferred).
• 5–8 years of experience designing optical or opto-mechanical systems in an industry or applied research environment (e.g. industry, national lab, or similar).
• Strong system-level design experience, including tools such as Zemax, COMSOL, and CAD.
• Deep expertise across several of the following areas:
• Free-space and fibre optics
• Lasers and modulators
• Electronics
• Optical system characterisation and testing
• Ultra-high vacuum systems
• Strong hands-on laboratory experience (assembly, alignment, testing, etc.).
• Proven experience developing complex optical systems from concept through to production.
• Ability to operate independently as a senior-level engineer within a multidisciplinary team.