Optical Analysis Design - Space Instruments

Optical Analysis Design - Space Instruments Aerospace & Defence

• England, Portsmouth
• Contract or Temp

Job Description

The successful candidate will operate within a team supporting the design and analysis of optical instruments for a leading Space & Defence business based in Portsmouth.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Support optical design, analysis, and tolerancing activities (optical ray-tracing models - ZEMAX), stray-light analysis (FRED), ensuring compliance with project budgets and schedules across all phases of space optical instruments.
• Evaluate different optical configurations, perform opto-mechanical tolerancing, and assist in drafting specifications for various components.
• Update optical models based on as-built data of optical components.
• Assist optical architects by conducting analyses necessary for developing and validating instrument performance, focusing on optical quality and stray-light management.

Occasional travel within Europe may be required, with prior notice provided.

Essential Skills and Experience:

• Degree or equivalent in optics or physics.
• 3-5 years of experience in optical analysis and instrumentation, preferably within the space industry.
• Proficiency in ZEMAX and FRED for optical analysis, design optimization, tolerancing, and stray-light analysis.
• Experience with mathematical scripting languages such as MATLAB, Python, or C for data analysis.
• Knowledge of optical components (mirrors, coatings, diffraction gratings, free-form optics, lenses, integrating spheres, optical fibers, polarisation scramblers), optical materials (IR, space-compatible), and lasers.
• Ability to understand complex optical systems and identify optimal design solutions.
• Knowledge of the design, development, testing, and production of space instruments.
• Ability to work independently with initiative and motivation.
• Effective communicator, capable of working with customers, subcontractors, and suppliers.
• Customer-focused attitude, promoting the interests of the KDC group.
• Compliance with customer processes, quality systems, and ethical standards.
• Fluent in written and spoken English.

Location: Building 307, Aviation Park, Bournemouth Airport, Dorset BH23 6NW