Lead Optical Instrument Engineer

Overview Our Client A leading international company specialized in advanced aerospace and defense solutions, with decades of experience in designing and delivering high-reliability systems for space communications, navigation, Earth observation, environmental monitoring, and planetary exploration. Its multidisciplinary teams work at the intersection of optical engineering, electronics, and systems integration, developing cutting-edge satellite instruments and infrastructures that support both governmental and commercial missions worldwide.

Mission The Optical Instrument Engineer will take ownership of the definition, design, and performance assurance of space-borne optical instruments. This role is pivotal in ensuring technical coherence, compliance with demanding specifications, and delivery of reliable instruments for complex space missions. By coordinating cross-disciplinary activities and engaging directly with customers and subcontractors, the engineer will play a key role in shaping innovative solutions that advance the frontiers of space applications.

Responsibilities Optical Design & Development

Define and develop optical architectures for space instruments.

Perform optical analyses, simulations, trade-offs, and prototyping to validate concepts.

Ensure compliance with performance budgets and interface requirements.

Prepare test plans and procedures for instrument-level testing.

Conduct integration, verification, and validation campaigns.

Demonstrate performance compliance and present results to customers.

System Coordination

Ensure technical integration across specialties (mechanical, electrical, thermal, AIT).

Coordinate activities of internal teams and subcontractors.

Drive early de-risking actions and define robust development roadmaps.

Translate mission needs into specifications and system architectures.

Present and defend design solutions to clients and partners.

Required Qualifications Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics (Optics), or a closely related field.

Minimum 5 years of experience in the design and development of space optical instruments.

Proven expertise in optical design and analysis tools.

Solid knowledge of optical materials and processes in space environments (UV to Thermal IR).

Experience working with multidisciplinary engineering teams in complex projects.

Fluency in English and Spanish.

Preferred Experience PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics (Optics), or equivalent specialization.

Knowledge of French language.

Experience in system-level technical coordination of subcontractors.

Familiarity with space project lifecycle, from early feasibility studies to in-orbit validation.

Location : Madrid, Spain

Job Type : On Site

Sector : Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing

#J-18808-Ljbffr