Optical AIT Engineer – Space Payloads
France (Hybrid, Marseille or Paris Region) | Permanent | Full-Time
We’re currently representing a leading European industrial group known for developing complex instrumentation for mission-critical and scientific applications. With more than 1,000 employees across Europe, the U.S., and Asia, this company plays a pivotal role in delivering next-gen technologies across defense, energy, life sciences, and increasingly-space-based systems.
As part of their growing space division, they are seeking an experienced Optical AIT Engineer to join a cross-functional team developing and qualifying cutting-edge onboard payloads for Earth Observation and laser-based communications.
This is an opportunity to work on real flight hardware, with involvement across the full AIT lifecycle-from cleanroom-based integration to high-precision optical alignment and performance validation. You’ll contribute to programs that are literally shaping the future of satellite communications and space-based sensing.
What You’ll Be Doing
You’ll join a multidisciplinary project team and take the lead on AIT (Assembly, Integration & Test) activities for complex space optical systems, including telescopes, lasercom terminals, and custom payloads. Your day-to-day might include:
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Developing and refining AIT procedures for alignment, integration, and optical testing
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Leading alignment and performance validation campaigns (optical, functional, thermal)
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Conducting precision calibration using interferometry, collimators, or equivalent metrology tools
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Managing test documentation, NCRs, and reporting through project milestones
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Interfacing with optical designers, systems engineers, and QA teams across the lifecycle
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Supporting cleanroom best practices and maintaining high quality standards (e.g. ECSS)
What We’re Looking For
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Degree-qualified in optics, photonics, physics, or a related engineering field
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5+ years of experience in AIT, optical engineering, or R&D for high-precision systems (space preferred)
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Hands-on expertise with optical alignment, metrology tools, and environmental test setups
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Familiarity with space standards and quality systems (ECSS or similar)
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Excellent communication skills, written and spoken (English required; French helpful)
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A proactive mindset and willingness to work hands-on in cleanroom environments
Why Join?
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Cutting-Edge Missions – Contribute to real spaceflight programs, including laser communication and Earth observation payloads
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Advanced Technologies – Work with free-space optics, adaptive optics, and quantum-adjacent tech (e.g. WDM, AO)
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Growth Trajectory – Join one of the fastest-growing units in a diversified industrial group
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International Collaboration – Work across borders with partners and colleagues throughout Europe and beyond
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Stability & Innovation – Be part of a well-established group with strong financial backing and long-term vision
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Positive Culture – Open, collaborative, and team-driven, with real focus on impact, quality, and shared success
The Practical Details
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Location: Paris region or South of France (preffered)
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Travel: Moderate, to project and partner sites across Europe
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Type: Full-time, permanent role
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Remote: Hybrid model possible depending on campaign phase
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Visa/Relocation: Support available for exceptional international candidates
Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.
Adam Slade