Senior Optical Engineer – Free-Space Laser Communications

Location: Vilnius, Lithuania (Hybrid: On-site + Partial Remote)
Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Sector: Space | Optical Engineering | Laser Communications

About the Opportunity

I’m currently partnered with a high-growth European space-tech startup that’s developing a cutting-edge end-to-end optical communication service – not just hardware. Backed by venture capital and with four space missions scheduled for launch in the next 12 months, they’re scaling fast and looking to bring in a Senior Optical Engineer to lead the design of precision laser systems used in space, ground, and maritime environments.

This is a unique opportunity to own optical system design from concept through to spaceflight – with a company selected by NATO’s Diana Accelerator (Top 10 of 1,440 startups) and recognized by the European Space Agency as a Rising Star.

Role Overview

This is a hands-on engineering role with a high level of ownership. You will take the lead in designing, simulating, and optimizing free-space laser communication systems for next-gen optical terminals. You’ll work closely with cross-disciplinary teams to bring high-performance optical subsystems from the lab into orbit.

Responsibilities

• Design and simulate optical systems for laser beam transmission, shaping, detection, and coupling

• Use tools like Zemax or OSLO to model beam propagation, fiber coupling, and optical performance

• Select and specify photonic components: lenses, filters, mirrors, coatings, and fiber elements

• Conduct lab-based optical alignment, calibration, and performance testing

• Collaborate with electronics, mechanical, and software engineers on system integration

• Contribute to next-generation versions of the company’s proprietary terminals (spaceborne, ground, and mobile)

• Document designs and lead technical reviews

✅ Ideal Candidate Profile

• Degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related discipline

• 3+ years of hands-on experience designing and testing laser or free-space optical systems

• Proficient in Zemax, OSLO, or equivalent simulation tools

• Skilled in fiber coupling design, SWIR optics, and real-world optical alignment

• Fluent in English; team-oriented, proactive, and adaptable to fast-paced environments

Bonus Skills (Not Required, but Valuable)

• Experience with laser communications, LiDAR, or SWIR optics

• Familiarity with cleanroom protocols, optical metrology, or MIL-STD/ECSS

• Experience with satellite optical payloads or photonic subsystems

Why This Role Stands Out

• Work directly on flight hardware for missions launching in the next year

• Join a company building the full optical communications stack, not just parts

• Hands-on founders with deep space and laser backgrounds (NanoAvionics, high-precision laser systems)

• VC-backed, fast-moving, and focused on practical innovation over process

• Stock options + flexible hybrid work model in a thriving Lithuanian tech ecosystem

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

Adam Slade