Head of Optics & Opto-Electronics Design

How to Apply: Send your CV/resume to [email protected] with Subject Line: Application for Head of Optics & Opto-Electronics Design

We Are Hiring: Head of Optics & Opto-Electronics Design

Role Type: Individual Contributor (IC)

📍 Location: Work from Home (Remote, Europe)

🌍 Domain: Defence Electronics | Aerospace | Strategic Electronics

Industry: Defence, Aerospace, Electro-Optics, Space Systems, ISR Technologies

About the Role

We are seeking a highly accomplished Manager / Head of Optics & Opto-Electronics Design to lead the design, development, and integration of advanced optical and electro-optical systems for defence, aerospace, UAV, and satellite applications.

The ideal candidate will be a recognized subject matter expert with extensive experience in developing Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR), Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR), Long-Wave Infrared (LWIR), Electro-Optical (EO), Infrared (IR), and multi-spectral optical systems for military and aerospace platforms.

This is a senior individual contributor role requiring deep technical expertise and hands-on involvement in the design and development of advanced optical payloads, seekers, surveillance systems, EO/IR pods, satellite imaging systems, and precision optical sensors.

Candidates with prior experience in leading defence optics programs within organizations across the UK, Israel, Europe, and Eastern Europe will be highly preferred.

Key Responsibilities

Optical System Design & Development

1. Lead the end-to-end design and development of advanced optical and opto-electronic systems.

2. Design and optimize SWIR, MWIR, LWIR, EO, IR, and multi-spectral optical architectures.

3. Perform optical design, analysis, tolerance studies, and performance optimization.

4. Develop imaging optics, afocal systems, telescopes, zoom optics, and thermal imaging optics.

5. Conduct stray light analysis, MTF optimization, radiometric analysis, and thermal compensation.

6. Design optical assemblies for harsh environmental and military operating conditions.

Experience Requirements

- 15+ years of experience in Optical and Electro-Optical System Design.

Preferred Candidate Profile

1. Recognized expert in military optical systems.

2. Experience with EO/IR payloads, missile seekers, or satellite optical payloads.

3. Strong understanding of defence procurement and qualification requirements.

4. Ability to independently drive complex optical programs.

5. Experience working with global defence OEMs and classified projects.

Apply now or send this to someone who’d be a great fit!