Optical AIT Engineer

Archangel Lightworks is a connectivity company building wireless technology to create the space-enabled networks of the future. We’re passionate about improving humanity’s communications infrastructure and solving some of Earth’s most critical problems from economic inclusion to climate change. Our start-up is a fast-paced and supportive environment, where you can make your mark as part of a growing team and work on the cutting-edge of innovation.

We’re looking for an Optical AIT Engineer to join our experienced engineering team and deliver transformative laser communications technology. You will be responsible for supporting the serial production, assembly, integration, and testing of Archangel Lightworks’ TERRA-M Optical Ground Station products and associated optical subsystems.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Assembly, Integration, and Testing: Perform, assemble and test optomechanical subsystems, assemblies, and support system level integration and testing of optical ground stations, developing ground support/test equipment
• Supply Chain Support: Manage ordering and oversee outsourced components. Testing/accepting outsourced components. Maintaining inventory
• Process Management: Ensure quality and documentation of build processes and collaborate with the engineering team to improve manufacturing processes and resolve technical challenges
• System Deployment: Support field maintenance, as well as deployment and installation of new systems (including international travel as needed).

Requirements:

• 5 years of experience
• Relevant academic background (e.g. Physics degree)
• Expected to have directly relevant experience assembling, integrating and testing systems (Complex optical assemblies)
• Proactive, detail-oriented, and capable of working independently in a hands-on lab environment
• Willingness and ability to travel internationally to support customer deployments and field activities.

Desirable additional skills:

• Experience with laser communications or free-space optics
• Precision optical alignment and optomechanical assembly
• Experience transitioning products from prototype to serial production
• Space, photonics, or aerospace industry experience
• Continuous improvement and manufacturing process optimisation.

Location: Our office is based in Osney Mead, Oxford.

Compensation & Perks:

• The opportunity to make a difference building cutting edge technology to support a world-changing vision
• 25 days annual leave allowance plus bank holidays
• Equity options in a growing start-up
• Investment in you to help you grow, with training resources and budget
• Supportive team culture with high levels of ownership and responsibility
• Regular socials and weekly team lunch
• Variety of additional perks including learning and wellbeing app subscriptions.

We recognise that many candidates use AI tools when applying. Please ensure your application reflects your own experience, skills, and thinking. We assess applications based on authenticity and accuracy, so anything generated with AI should be reviewed, personalised, and representative of you.