Space Optical Systems Engineer

Your mission As a Systems Engineer, you will be one of the key team members in designing, developing, and maintaining state of the art instruments. From supporting the design of the optical frontend to managing testing and calibration of the systems, you will ensure accuracy and performance. You will collaborate with other engineers and scientists to create an impeccable system that consistently meets customer expectations. You are essential to AIRMO's success - together with our engineering team, you will be at the helm of designing the core of our optical instrument. Your impact will be felt in our ability to accurately measure performance. The following are the responsibilities of the payload instrumentation scientist: Trace the requirements for payload instrumentations, parts, components, or subsystems Define technical specifications for optical systems, subsystems, equipment, and verification strategies Define and conduct or manage trade studies/analysis to support optical and opto-mechanical design decisions Define and develop or manage optical design processes and tools as well as core competencies and key technologies for the optical system Coordinate optical design, development, integration, and test activities with other engineering disciplines and AIRMO technical managersPerform design and execute analysis, tolerancing, and simulation of optical systems Perform technical work in the project in cooperation with engineering, system engineering, AIT, and procurement. If required, execute tasks from these areas according to expertise Lead and/or support internal and subcontractor reviews, proposals, and cost estimates of internal projects Your profile The ideal candidate for this position should have completed studies in the field of optics/opto-electronics, physics, engineering, or an equivalent qualification. Other essential attributes include: Long-time professional experience in space optics Strong knowledge in optics with significant expertise in optical modelling and simulation, especially in the field of spectrometers and lasers over the spectral wavelengths range from Vis to IR Wide-ranging experience and advanced knowledge in interfaces and interactions between various aspects of optical systems incl. thermal, mechanical, electrical aspects and interfaces Experience with STOP analysis, sequential and non-sequential modes of ZEMAX OpticStudio. Experience building and operating optical benches with visible and NIR lasers, including implementation of laser safety, use of wavefront sensors and other optical instrument. Experience with lasers, APD, PIN and FPA detectors. 5-years+ experience in optical projects The minimum requirements for applicants include: Degree in Physics or similar Proficiency in Python for data analysis, simulation, and automation of optical systems. 7+ years of relevant engineering experience. Strong fundamental understanding of spectrography Fluency in spoken and written English Enthusiasm to learn about the NewSpace or Climate tech Why us? A chance to shape how climate and space technology is communicated globally Direct exposure to founders, investors, and international customers Flexible working hours and hybrid setup A mission-driven, curious, and slightly space-obsessed team About us AIRMO is a European climate-tech company using space and airborne technologies to monitor greenhouse gas emissions globally. Our instruments — combining LiDAR and hyperspectral imaging — detect and quantify methane and CO₂ emissions from industrial sites, pipelines, and national infrastructure. We’re building a global monitoring system from ground to space, helping energy companies, governments, and investors take real action on climate impact. Apply for this job