Lead Engineer – Laser Systems

About the Opportunity

Join an ambitious deep-tech company developing next-generation photonic quantum computing technology. This is an opportunity to work on highly complex technology at the intersection of lasers, photonics, integrated optics and quantum systems.

The Role

We are seeking a Lead Photonics Systems Engineer to architect and develop ultra-stable, low-noise laser systems for an advanced photonic computing platform. You will combine systems-level technical leadership with hands-on experimental work, helping define the technology roadmap and transition cutting-edge prototypes into scalable, industrial-grade solutions.

You will work with state-of-the-art optics laboratories, custom photonic devices and multidisciplinary engineering teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Own the technical architecture and roadmap for complex laser and photonic subsystems, including requirements definition, component specification, test strategy and technical documentation.
• Lead hands-on experimental development and validation, solving critical technical challenges and coordinating research and engineering activities.
• Develop and integrate laser stabilisation, control systems, locking electronics and feedback loops to meet demanding noise and stability requirements.
• Define strategies for Design for Manufacturability, Test and Reliability (DfM/DfT/DfR), supporting the transition from R&D prototypes to scalable production.
• Lead make-versus-buy decisions and develop workflows for introducing externally manufactured components.
• Work closely with electronics, firmware, mechanical and systems teams to define interfaces and support seamless subsystem integration.
• Develop vendor and supply-chain strategies, including RFQs, technical specifications, validation plans and supplier relationships.
• Identify and manage technical and programme risks, reducing single points of failure across the R&D roadmap.

Required Experience

• 10+ years’ experience in high-performance photonics, lasers or complex optical systems.
• Deep expertise in semiconductor lasers, optical amplification and electro-optic modulators.
• Experience managing high-power optical systems, thermal challenges and demanding noise/stability requirements, including RIN and phase noise.
• Strong knowledge of laser frequency stabilisation, high-bandwidth feedback/control systems and RF/microwave engineering.
• Experience with pulsed optical systems.
• Proven experience making build-versus-buy decisions and managing technical vendors and suppliers for custom photonic components.
• Experience with photonic integrated circuit testing and scaling photonic technologies.
• Strong track record taking complex optical systems through New Product Introduction (NPI), experimental validation and troubleshooting.
• Experience applying data-driven engineering approaches and Design for Manufacturability principles.

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

Oliver Logan