Optical Architect FSO

Can you define the optical architecture for our state of the art optical communications systems in an energetic young startup? Do you want to be the bridge from optical design perspective between customers, suppliers and our high tech factory to help us realize cost competitive products? Do you want to help built a start-up company? Then, read on and find out more about the position of Optical Architect at FSO Instruments!

About Demcon

FSO Instruments is at the forefront of developing advanced laser satellite communication technology. Together with our partners and shareholders we are committed to strengthening the Dutch space industry and pushing the boundaries of communication systems to enable faster, more reliable, and secure connections between satellites, airplanes, drones and ground stations. By pushing the boundaries of what is achievable, we are shaping the future of space communication, both locally and globally. FSO Instruments is a Joint Venture between Demcon and VDL that develops and manufactures optical-communication components, sub-systems, and terminals. FSO Instruments combines the strengths of Demcon and VDL ETG, inspired by TNO technologies, to let laser satellite communication take the step towards industrialization. We have strong heritage in Semiconductor and Aerospace, and bring this to optical communications:

• Developing and engineering of laser communication terminals
• Modular and Standardized functional (sub-)systems for laser communication
• High tech contract manufacturing expertise for cost-effective high-volume production.

At FSO Instruments we work closely with dedicated partners for development and supply, as well as with our parent companies to ensure we achieve the most competitive products for the market for optical communications in space.

What are you going to do?

• Lead the optical design of our products by balancing technical performance and product costs in volume manufacturing.
• Define and lead the optical design for typical telescopes and optical benches for our optical laser communication systems.
• Since FSO Instruments is a young and growing company you are expected to be able to work both on concepts/architectures as well as performing optical modelling work (Zemax) if needed.
• Work in close collaboration in a multidisciplinary (multi-company) team of optical, mechanical, control, systems, electrical and software engineers.
• Manage subcontractors and suppliers from optical point of view.
• Iterate and transfer the optical designs to the factory (VDL ETG) for series production
• Provide support from optical design perspective in writing offers to customers, ESA tenders and subsidy projects.
• Provide support in setting up the factory and production facilities related to optical components.
• Develop technical roadmaps through all product lines from optical design perspective

What do you bring to the table?

• You have a degree at the level of higher professional education (HBO or WO), preferably in physics or aerospace engineering.
• Extended experience as Optical Architect, Team Lead Optical or a similar role, preferably in the field of optical communication technology or satellite systems.
• Strong inter-personal skills and collaborative mindset.
• You have a minimum of 8 years' experience in a comparable optical engineering position in the space or high-tech industries.
• You have knowledge and experience in optical modelling (preferably Zemax)
• You have knowledge of telescopes and high-end optical benches for space applications
• You are able to lead discussions with suppliers in the development of our products from optical perspective
• You have a good understanding of optical design choices and the impact on cost for volume manufacturing
• You are entrepreneurial and creative and you can translate technical problems into working (optical) solutions
• You are enthusiastic, flexible and show initiative and perseverance
• You are pragmatic, can work with a large degree of independence and show initiative in building the company
• You have good command of the English language in word and writing. Good command of the Dutch language is preferred but not a requirement.
• You are ambitious, solution-oriented and a team player.

What do we offer you?

At FSO Instruments we have a ‘flat’ organization where people can easily find and help each other. We value a comfortable and inclusive workplace. There is a lot of emphasis put on personal needs and we discourage overtime, because we know how important work-life balance is.

Furthermore, you can count on, among other things:

• A good, market-based salary
• 31 days off and 8% vacation allowance;
• Possibility to work from home, maximum 2 days a week.
• A good pension plan at Zwitserleven;
• The opportunity to follow training and courses, or externally, so you can further develop your knowledge;
• A laptop and mobile phone from work;
• Bicycle plan