About this role
Senior Optical Engineer
This is a future role. We're building a shortlist now and will contact you when it opens.
About us
Foundational is building the most precise picture of Earth and orbit, using lasers fired from the ground. We call it ground truth for orbit.
We design and run low-cost, autonomous satellite laser ranging stations. They measure the distance to satellites with extreme precision, day and night. Our data platform turns those measurements into tracking data and orbit products for satellite operators, space agencies and governments. We also build our own flight-proven laser retroreflector arrays, so any satellite can be tracked.
Our station network is expanding across Europe, South America, Africa and Australia. The data supports resilient navigation, Earth observation and the safe, sustainable use of space.
We're a small, fast-moving team of engineers, scientists and operators in London. We're backed by venture investors and supported by ESA, the UK Space Agency, Innovate UK and the European Innovation Council.
Position Overview
London · Full time · On-site
You'll run our workshop and build the hardware that goes into our stations. The work is hands-on and varied: machining, assembly, wiring and testing.
What you'll do
- Machine, modify and assemble mechanical parts and sub-assemblies
- Build wiring looms, cabinets and electrical assemblies
- Assemble and test station hardware before it ships
- Keep the workshop safe, organised and stocked
- Help engineers turn prototypes into repeatable builds
- Prepare and pack equipment for shipping to sites around the world
What you'll bring
- Workshop experience in engineering, manufacturing or a research lab
- Manual machining (lathe and mill) and hand-tool skills
- The ability to read engineering drawings, and basic electrical wiring skills
- Care for precision and cleanliness
Nice to have
- CNC machining
- Optical or cleanroom assembly
- Welding and fabrication, or 3D printing
- A relevant NVQ or HNC
What We Offer
- A high-impact role with real ownership at an early-stage, venture-backed spacetech company
- EMI share options (UK employees)
- 25 Days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays
- Enhanced Parental Leave
- Cycle to work schemes
- Work alongside engineers and scientists across optics, lasers, software and astrodynamics
- Offices in central London, with snacks, tea, coffee and regular socials
We actively champion underrepresented groups and seek to bridge gaps in our workforce. If you're excited by the role but don't match every point, or you’re seeking a part time role, please apply anyway and add a note into your application. Building the best team is our priority.