Senior Optical Engineer – Hybrid Role | Oxford | Up to £70k Engineering & Software Development | Full-time We are seeking an experienced Senior Optical Engineer to join a leading quantum technology company in Oxford. This hybrid role offers the chance to work on cutting-edge optical systems for quantum sensing and computing, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to translate experimental concepts into engineered solutions. The Role: As a Senior Optical Engineer, you will lead the design, analysis, and integration of optical systems, from laser sources to atom-based experiments. You will optimise, simulate, assemble, and characterise optical components and subsystems, ensuring high performance, stability, and reliability. Key Responsibilities: * Lead development of optical systems for quantum sensing and computing, collaborating with physicists, mechanical, electrical, and software engineers. * Design, simulate, and optimise optical systems (free space and fibre optics) including complex components such as lenses, SLMs, and DOEs. * Align and integrate optical systems, validating performance through structured testing. * Execute tolerance analysis and guide design decisions using simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, Zemax). * Lead design reviews and maintain technical documentation. Requirements: * Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Physics, or similar. * Minimum 5 years’ experience in optical system design and integration. * Hands-on experience with precision alignment of optical and laser systems. * Proficiency with optical simulation tools and test equipment (beam profilers, polarimeters, optical spectrum analysers, photodiodes). * Excellent communication and collaborative skills. * Desirable: imaging system design, laser beam modulation/distribution, CAD experience (SolidWorks preferred). Benefits: * Competitive salary up to £70,000 * Hybrid working (up to 2 days from home) * Unlimited PTO * Generous 10% pension contribution * Cycle-to-work and technology schemes * Incentive Stock Option Plan * Private healthcare after probation Diversity & Inclusion: We welcome applicants from all backgrounds. If you have the potential, even if you don’t meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply