Lead Optical Designer (Member of Technical Team)

As a Member of Technical Staff - Optics acting in a principal capacity, you will be the architectural cornerstone of our core optical systems. Because we are charting unmapped territory, this role demands far more than off-the-shelf engineering. It requires first-principles thinking to design, simulate, and validate highly complex transmission and projection systems.

You will be responsible for the end-to-end design lifecycle of our primary optical architecture. This involves rigorous modelling of coherent light propagation through multi-element optical systems. You will be expected to calculate and mitigate complex optical aberrations and manage the intricate effects of environmental and physical stressors on system performance. You will define the tolerances, drive the simulation methodologies, and establish the rigorous testing frameworks necessary to turn theoretical designs into robust physical hardware.

Operating at a lead level, you will not just execute tasks. You will shape the technical direction of the optics team. You will interface continuously with cross-functional experts in simulation, hardware, and systems engineering to ensure that your optical designs integrate flawlessly into our broader technology stack. The work is deliberately ambiguous and incredibly challenging, requiring a resilient engineer who thrives when building the roadmap rather than just following one.

Do you have experience in System design?, To succeed in this role, you must possess a rare blend of deep theoretical knowledge, hands-on simulation expertise, and the distinctive mindset required to navigate a high-paced, high-stakes startup environment.

Core Attributes & Startup Readiness

• Independent Drive: You are a self-starter who excels at independent working. You do not wait for instruction but identify bottlenecks and proactively contribute solutions.

• Communication Excellence: You possess excellent written and oral communication skills. You can distil highly complex optical concepts into clear, actionable insights for non-optical engineering peers and leadership.

• Presentation Skills: You are highly capable of presenting data-driven design reviews, defending your technical choices with rigour, and taking constructive feedback on board.

• Adaptability: You maintain focus and high energy in a rapidly evolving startup setting where priorities can shift as new experimental data emerges.

Technical Expertise

• Advanced Simulation Software: Extensive, demonstrable experience using industry-standard tools. You must be highly proficient in Zemax for macroscopic system design, ray tracing, and rigorous tolerance analysis. Additionally, deep expertise in Lumerical is required for sub-wavelength electromagnetic simulations and nanophotonics modelling.

• Scripting and Automation: Strong programming skills in Python are essential for automating complex simulation workflows, conducting large-scale data analysis, and interfacing directly with optical design APIs.

• System Design: A proven track record in designing high-precision transmission and projection systems from concept to physical realisation.

• Wave & Fourier Optics: Deep expertise in simulating and analysing coherent light propagation, diffraction effects, and interference phenomena through complex optical trains.

• Performance Management: Advanced capability in calculating, modelling, and correcting a wide spectrum of optical aberrations, alongside a strong grasp of how structural and environmental variations impact precision optomechanics.

• Mathematical Rigour: Strong proficiency in matrix calculations and mathematical modelling for optical performance and manufacturability.

Desirable Skills

• Metaoptics: Familiarity with the theory, design, and fabrication methods of meta-surfaces and metaoptics.

• Optomechanics: Experience in optomechanical design, understanding how optical components must be mounted, aligned, and stabilised within high-precision macroscopic assemblies.

Benefits & Compensation We recognise that our foundational team members are the engine of our success. To reflect your critical role in building Cnuic Technologies, we offer a highly competitive compensation package. This includes:

• Equity Scheme: A generous allocation from our option pool, ensuring that as a fundamental builder of the company, you share substantially in our long-term success.
• Life Insurance: Comprehensive standard life insurance coverage for your peace of mind.
• Work Environment: A modern, state-of-the-art office space designed for both deep focus and team collaboration. This features dedicated recreational areas where you can step away from the desk, unwind, and recharge.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £35,000.00-£75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Flexitime
• Work from home