Lead Optical Instrument Engineer

OverviewOur 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.ResponsibilitiesOptical 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