Lead Optical Engineer

Our client is an early-stage deep-tech company developing permanent data storage technology using glass.

This is an opportunity to take ownership of the optical architecture behind innovative laser-based data writing and reading systems, while leading the technology development of the optical team.

Job Responsibilities

• Define and own the optical roadmap and system architecture for high-throughput data writing and high-fidelity reading systems, including development towards significantly higher laser pulse energies.
• Lead the design, simulation, tolerancing and validation of ultrafast laser delivery, beam-shaping and imaging systems.
• Select and integrate lasers, programmable masking elements, objectives, and illumination and detection optics.
• Build, mentor and manage the optical engineering team, including mid-level and junior engineers, working students and university collaborators.
• Lead prototyping and laboratory experiments, using test data to drive rapid design iterations and improve system performance.
• Collaborate with optomechanical, electronics, software and physics teams to translate technical requirements into validated, production-ready designs.
• Contribute to intellectual property strategy and establish laser safety procedures and design-review standards as the team grows.

Experience Required

• MSc or PhD in Physics, Optical Engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent practical experience.
• Proven experience leading optical system development as a technical lead, group leader or principal engineer, with experience mentoring engineers.
• Strong hands‑on experience with high‑power femtosecond lasers, including alignment, integration and laser safety.
• Strong optical design and modelling skills using Zemax or equivalent software, including optical tolerancing.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas: structured beams, maskless lithography, projection imaging, high‑intensity laser–material interactions, phase‑contrast or darkfield microscopy, and UV optics.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to lead interdisciplinary teams in a fast‑moving technical environment.
• Experience in lithography or advanced imaging is desirable but not essential.
• Founding‑level technical ownership of the company's core technology.
• Direct influence over the optical engineering team's structure, hiring priorities and technical direction.
• Opportunity to lead the development of advanced optical systems from concept through to validated, scalable platforms.