Optical AIT Engineer – Space Payloads

France (Hybrid, Marseille or Paris Region) | Permanent | Full-Time

We’re currently representing a leading European industrial group known for developing complex instrumentation for mission-critical and scientific applications. With more than 1,000 employees across Europe, the U.S., and Asia, this company plays a pivotal role in delivering next-gen technologies across defense, energy, life sciences, and increasingly-space-based systems.

As part of their growing space division, they are seeking an experienced Optical AIT Engineer to join a cross-functional team developing and qualifying cutting-edge onboard payloads for Earth Observation and laser-based communications.

This is an opportunity to work on real flight hardware, with involvement across the full AIT lifecycle-from cleanroom-based integration to high-precision optical alignment and performance validation. You’ll contribute to programs that are literally shaping the future of satellite communications and space-based sensing.

What You’ll Be Doing

You’ll join a multidisciplinary project team and take the lead on AIT (Assembly, Integration & Test) activities for complex space optical systems, including telescopes, lasercom terminals, and custom payloads. Your day-to-day might include:

• Developing and refining AIT procedures for alignment, integration, and optical testing

• Leading alignment and performance validation campaigns (optical, functional, thermal)

• Conducting precision calibration using interferometry, collimators, or equivalent metrology tools

• Managing test documentation, NCRs, and reporting through project milestones

• Interfacing with optical designers, systems engineers, and QA teams across the lifecycle

• Supporting cleanroom best practices and maintaining high quality standards (e.g. ECSS)

What We’re Looking For

• Degree-qualified in optics, photonics, physics, or a related engineering field

• 5+ years of experience in AIT, optical engineering, or R&D for high-precision systems (space preferred)

• Hands-on expertise with optical alignment, metrology tools, and environmental test setups

• Familiarity with space standards and quality systems (ECSS or similar)

• Excellent communication skills, written and spoken (English required; French helpful)

• A proactive mindset and willingness to work hands-on in cleanroom environments

Why Join?

• Cutting-Edge Missions – Contribute to real spaceflight programs, including laser communication and Earth observation payloads

• Advanced Technologies – Work with free-space optics, adaptive optics, and quantum-adjacent tech (e.g. WDM, AO)

• Growth Trajectory – Join one of the fastest-growing units in a diversified industrial group

• International Collaboration – Work across borders with partners and colleagues throughout Europe and beyond

• Stability & Innovation – Be part of a well-established group with strong financial backing and long-term vision

• Positive Culture – Open, collaborative, and team-driven, with real focus on impact, quality, and shared success

The Practical Details

• Location: Paris region or South of France (preffered)

• Travel: Moderate, to project and partner sites across Europe

• Type: Full-time, permanent role

• Remote: Hybrid model possible depending on campaign phase

• Visa/Relocation: Support available for exceptional international candidates

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

Adam Slade