Free Space Optical Communication Expert

Are you a proactive team player with experience and knowledge in optical communication in space who likes to work in multidisciplinary teams on the development of a variety of products? Then this role could be the right fit.

We are looking for a highly skilled expert in Free Space Optics (FSO) with ideally over five years of hands-on experience in optical communication systems. In this role, you will design, implement, and optimize FSO communication links, tackling challenges related to optical wavefront errors, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), bit error rate (BER), and overall system performance.

About Demcon

FSO Instruments is at the forefront of developing advanced laser satellite communication technology. Together with partners and shareholders, the company is 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.

FSO Instruments develops and manufactures optical-communication components, sub-systems, and terminals. The company combines expertise in semiconductor and aerospace with optical communications:

• Developing and engineering 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, teams work closely with dedicated partners for development and supply, as well as with parent companies, to achieve competitive products for the optical communications market in space.

What are you going to do?

• Design, develop, and test FSO communication systems in laboratory and field environments.
• Work on the setup, alignment, and calibration of optical communication testbeds.
• Analyze and optimize system performance based on SNR, BER, and wavefront error metrics.
• Conduct research and development in laser beam propagation, atmospheric turbulence mitigation, optical amplifiers, and adaptive optics.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including HW, SW, and mechanical engineers to enhance system capabilities.
• Document experimental findings, prepare technical reports, and present results to stakeholders.
• Lead projects and deliver on time.

What do you bring to the table?

• 5+ years of experience in Free Space Optical Communication systems.
• Hands-on experience with fiber and Free Space Optics laboratory setups.
• Familiarity with communication standards like SDA and ESTOL and associated error coding and interleaving solutions.
• Strong understanding of optical wavefront errors, SNR, BER, and link budget analysis.
• Experience using optical design and simulation tools such as Zemax, Code V, MATLAB, Python, or similar tools.
• Knowledge of adaptive optics, beam steering, and pointing error.

What do we offer you?

At FSO Instruments, there is a flat organization where people can easily find and help each other. The company values a comfortable and inclusive workplace, places emphasis on personal needs, and discourages overtime because work-life balance is considered important.

Furthermore, you can count on, among other things:

• 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 so you can further develop your knowledge
• A laptop and mobile phone from work
• Bicycle plan