Optical Test Engineer/Technician

Hedge End
3 days ago
Create job alert

This is a key hands-on role where your work will have a direct impact on the development of new and innovative laser technologies. As an Optical Test and Validation Engineer, you’ll play a vital part in ensuring that components and systems meet the highest performance standards to support the advancement of next-generation fibre laser products.

Working within a modern laboratory environment, you’ll test and validate critical optical components, troubleshoot technical issues, and help maintain the reliability and precision of advanced laser systems. The role involves close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to analyse test data, document results, and configure new components for production use.

Full training is provided in fibre handling and optical testing, with a clear pathway for professional development within optics and laser engineering.

Key Responsibilities
Test, validate, and document vendor-supplied optical and electronic components
Support troubleshooting and performance improvement across development stages
Configure and verify new components within laser systems
Collaborate with engineering teams to analyse test data and resolve technical issuesAbout You
Hands-on experience in a lab or R&D environment, ideally in optics, photonics, or electronics
Confident using power meters, optical scopes, and other test instruments
Practical, detail-oriented, and proactive approach to problem-solving
Experience with lasers or fibre optics is an advantage but not essentialThis is an excellent opportunity for a technician or engineer who thrives in a practical lab environment and wants to contribute directly to cutting-edge optical and photonics innovation

Related Jobs

View all jobs

Senior Principal III-V Photonics Engineer

Laser Technology R&D Engineer

Senior Principal III-V Photonics Engineer

Engineering Programme Manager

Optical Instrumentation Engineer | Spectroscopy | Analytical Instrumentation | | AI | Photonics | HealthTech | Deep Tech Startup

Optical Instrumentation Engineer | Spectroscopy | Analytical Instrumentation | | AI | Photonics | HealthTech | Deep Tech Startup

Subscribe to Future Tech Insights for the latest jobs & insights, direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to our privacy policy and terms of service.

Industry Insights

Discover insightful articles, industry insights, expert tips, and curated resources.

Neurodiversity in Quantum Computing Careers: Turning Different Thinking into a Superpower

Quantum computing is one of the most demanding – & exciting – areas in technology. It sits at the intersection of physics, mathematics, computer science, engineering & even philosophy. The problems are complex, the systems are fragile, & the answers are rarely obvious. That’s exactly why quantum needs people who think differently. If you live with ADHD, autism or dyslexia, you may have been told your brain is “too distracted”, “too literal” or “too chaotic” for high-end research or deep technical roles. In reality, many of the traits that made school or traditional workplaces difficult can be huge strengths in quantum computing – from intense focus on niche topics to pattern recognition in noisy data & creative approaches to algorithms. This guide is for neurodivergent job seekers exploring quantum computing careers in the UK. We’ll look at: What neurodiversity means in a quantum computing context How ADHD, autism & dyslexia strengths map onto common quantum roles Practical workplace adjustments you can ask for under UK law How to talk about your neurodivergence in applications & interviews By the end, you’ll have a clearer sense of where you might thrive in quantum computing – & how to turn “different thinking” into a genuine superpower.

Quantum Computing Hiring Trends 2026: What to Watch Out For (For Job Seekers & Recruiters)

As we move into 2026, the quantum computing jobs market in the UK is shifting from hype to harder-edged reality. The wildest forecasts have softened, some early-stage start-ups have pivoted or been acquired, and investors are more selective. At the same time, governments, big tech, defence, finance and pharma still see quantum as strategically important – especially in algorithms, quantum-safe cryptography, optimisation and materials simulation. The result: fewer “blue-sky” roles with no clear roadmap, and more demand for quantum talent that can plug into real programmes, real products and real timelines. Whether you’re a quantum job seeker planning your next move, or a recruiter building teams across hardware, software, theory or adjacent fields, understanding the key quantum computing hiring trends for 2026 will help you stay ahead.

Quantum Computing Recruitment Trends 2025 (UK): What Job Seekers Need To Know About Today’s Hiring Process

Summary: UK quantum computing hiring has shifted from credential‑first screening to capability‑driven evaluation. Employers now value provable contributions across the stack—algorithms & applications, compilation & optimisation, circuit synthesis, control & calibration, hardware characterisation, error mitigation/correction (QEM/QEC), verification/benchmarking, and hybrid HPC/quantum workflows—plus the ability to communicate trade‑offs, costs and feasibility to non‑quantum teams. This guide explains what’s changed, what to expect in interviews and how to prepare—especially for quantum algorithm engineers, quantum software/compilers, experimentalists, quantum control & firmware, cryo/readout engineers, quantum error correction researchers, verification/benchmarking specialists, and quantum‑adjacent product managers. Who this is for: Quantum algorithm/applications engineers, compiler/optimisation engineers, control/firmware engineers, experimental physicists & hardware engineers (superconducting, trapped ion, photonic, spin/neutral atom), cryogenics & RF/microwave, QEC researchers, verification/benchmarking specialists, quantum‑HPC orchestration engineers, and product/BD roles in the UK quantum ecosystem.