Optical AIT/AIV Engineer – Earth Observation Satellites (Onsite, Surrey)
*Due to strict export control and contractual obligations, we are unable to consider applications from non-UK or non-EU citizens. The company can sponsor EU citizens to work in the UK where required.*
We are seeking an experienced Optical AIT/AIV Engineer to support the onsite assembly, integration and verification of an Earth Observation optical payload for our NewSpace client - a rapidly expanding space technology company based in the UK.
This role is based full-time onsite (5 days per week) in Guildford for the duration of the payload build phase.
You will be embedded within the satellite manufacturer’s Optical AIT/AIV and Imaging teams, supporting precision optical and mechanical assembly, instrument integration, environmental testing and verification activities to deliver flight-ready hardware.
Following completion of the active build phase, there will be an opportunity to contribute to ongoing technical activities, including capturing lessons learned and supporting future payload AIT/AIV planning.
This is an excellent opportunity to play a hands-on role in the delivery of advanced Earth Observation space hardware within a high-performance team environment.
Key Responsibilities
* Perform optical and mechanical alignment of instruments in cleanroom environments
* Carry out AIT/AIV activities across optical payload subsystems
* Operate and maintain test equipment such as interferometers, CMMs, thermal vacuum chambers, MTF rigs and integrating spheres
* Support build and verification of optical, mechanical and electrical ground support equipment (GSE)
* Troubleshoot and resolve hardware issues during integration and test
* Produce and maintain build procedures, test reports and cleanroom documentation
* Manage materials, tooling and cleanliness protocols
* Provide feedback to design teams on manufacturability and testability
* Work closely within a multidisciplinary project team
Essential Qualifications & Experience
* Degree in Engineering, Physics, Optics or a related discipline (or equivalent experience)
* Hands-on AIT/AIV experience on Earth Observation satellite programmes
* Cleanroom experience in low-volume, high-technology manufacturing environments
* Experience handling optical systems and precision optical hardware
* Experience operating interferometers, CMMs, thermal vacuum chambers, or similar environmental/optical test equipment is highly desirable.
Desirable Skills
* Methodical, detail-oriented and confident with hands-on instrumentation
* Strong technical documentation and reporting skills
* Able to work autonomously and within cross-functional teams
* Resilient under schedule pressure
* Strong analytical and communication skills
* Adaptable and proactive
* Passion for space technology and delivering high-quality flight hardware
Why Apply?
* Opportunity to work on advanced Earth Observation satellite hardware
* Gain valuable onsite experience with a leading satellite manufacturer
* Work in a collaborative and technically focused environment
* Contribute directly to the delivery of flight hardware
If you are interested, please apply today!
angela.olmo@newspacetechnical.com