Senior Optical Engineer — Targeting & Imaging Systems

Leonardo UK Ltd

Newcastle upon Tyne

Hybrid

GBP 70,000 - 100,000

Full time

4 days ago

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Job summary

Leonardo UK Ltd is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to advance laser‑directed energy and targeting laser systems. You will lead optical‑mechanical concept development and system verification, contributing to sovereign defence technologies on flagship programmes.

The role requires graduate optics credentials, strong lens design and optical analysis skills, and experience with infrared/multi‑waveband systems. Hybrid working and extensive learning opportunities are offered.

Qualifications

Classical optics principles demonstrated in graduate-level work.
Experience with lens design and optical analysis using commercial tools.
Background in product development involving optical–mechanical systems.
Experience with infrared/multi‑waveband optical systems.
Knowledge of optical coatings transmission/reflectance measurements.
Experience with stray light analysis and control methods.
Ability to measure and quantify wavefront error.
Experience designing fiber‑to‑free‑space optical links.
Ability to design across varied temperatures/environments.

Responsibilities

Develop Optical‑Mechanical concepts; define system architecture and lens designs.
Model or design imaging lenses and optical systems with tools like Zemax/CodeV.
Develop test processes for Engineering/Technicians for electro‑optical systems.
Support system verification to meet performance and safety requirements.
Explore new technologies to address opportunities.
Create work packages with milestones and deliverables in a project team.
Collaborate with procurement to identify new suppliers and address supplier quality.