Job Description

Socode are working with a key client who are building precision optical hardware for use in orbit. As their existing systems move deeper into test and qualification, and new designs start to take shape, they're looking to add a Senior Optomechanical Engineer to their on-site engineering team.
This is a proper hands-on role. You won't be hidden behind a desk producing drawings in isolation. You'll be involved from early design decisions right through to integration, testing, and verification of flight hardware. It's a senior individual contributor position, so no line management, but you will be expected to take technical ownership and help guide technicians and other engineers day to day.
What will you actually be working on?

• Designing and developing high-precision optomechanical assemblies from early concepts through to flight-ready systems
• Taking a lead role in lab-based integration, alignment, and optical performance testing
• Owning optomechanical aspects of existing products while contributing ideas and designs for future systems
• Producing and evolving detailed 3D CAD models, assemblies, and drawings with realistic tolerances for precision manufacture
• Using optical modelling tools to predict system performance and then validating those models against real test data
• Setting up and running experiments, test rigs, and measurement systems, often tying instrumentation together with Python scripts
• Providing hands-on technical guidance to technicians during build, alignment, and test activities
• Working closely with optical, mechanical, electronics, and software engineers to make sure everything fits and works together
• Supporting environmental testing such as vibration and thermal vacuum, and checking performance before and after test
• Working directly with specialist suppliers on component selection, drawings, technical queries, and inspections
• Writing clear design notes, test plans, and reports that other engineers can actually use

What they're looking for

• Solid experience in optomechanical engineering within a hands-on development or R&D environment
• Someone comfortable aligning, integrating, and troubleshooting optical systems in the lab
• A good understanding of how optical components are made and how that affects design choices
• Strong experience with optical design tools (such as Zemax) and 3D CAD packages (Solidworks, Creo)
• Python experience for test automation, equipment control, or data analysis
• An engineer who can work independently, make sound technical decisions, and see work through
• Clear communication skills and the ability to explain optical concepts to non-optical engineers

Skills Required