Optical System Engineer, Satellite Communications

Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Employment Type: Full-time

About the Role:

We are looking for a highly skilled System Engineer to join our team in Amsterdam, specializing in Optical Inter-satellite Links. In this role, you will be at the forefront of technology, working hands-on with cutting-edge systems to design and develop optical satellite communications solutions. This position involves the design and hardware development of ultra-high-rate satellite payloads, terrestrial links, and feeder links to satellites, with a focus on free-space laser communications systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform system design and hardware development for satellite payloads, terrestrial links, and feeder links.
• Engage in the preparation of proposals for new laser communication concepts.
• Conduct system engineering trades and analysis for free-space laser communication systems.
• Support the assembly, integration, and testing of transceivers.
• Oversee the qualification tests of components, assemblies, and systems.
• Participate in both government and commercial projects, interacting with various customers.

What We Are Looking For:

• Experience: At least 7-10 years of relevant work experience in free-space laser communication systems, including payload and terrestrial feeder links.
• Educational Background: MS or PhD in a related field.
• Technical Expertise: Deep knowledge of optical systems, precision beam-pointing, and the design and development of optical and laser communication systems for terrestrial or satellite applications.
• Additional Skills: Experience with satellite optical payloads, flight qualification of optical systems, fiber optic systems, and components.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proven experience in systems engineering for free-space laser communication systems.
• Demonstrated ability to develop innovative solutions to complex challenges.
• Fundamental understanding of optical and communication systems from specifications and first principles.
• Availability to travel across Europe and to the US for collaboration and conferences.
• Valid work permit for the Netherlands and willingness to relocate to Amsterdam.

Why Join Us:

This role offers a unique opportunity to work on projects directly tied to ESA, focusing on creating systems to connect satellites through optical communications. You will be part of a highly technical team, managing high-level system requirements down to the subcomponents.

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Adam Slade