Senior Optical Systems Engineer

• Title: Senior Optical Systems Engineer
• Location: Warsaw, Poland; Hybrid
• Reports to: Engineering Manager, Optical System
• Role Type: Fulltime, Permanent

* Employment is subject to applicable security screening (incl. SUPO, where required)

Who are we?

ICEYE is the global leader in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite technology, revolutionizing Earth observation with real-time, all-weather, day-and-night imaging. As the owner and operator of the world’s largest SAR satellite constellation, we provide critical insights that empower industries like maritime, disaster management, insurance, and finance to make informed decisions.

Headquartered in Finland, with a presence in five international locations, our diverse team of 600+ experts from nearly 60 countries shares a bold mission: to enhance life on Earth by delivering reliable, data-driven solutions. At ICEYE, we foster a culture of curiosity, innovation, and collaboration, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in space technology to solve the world’s toughest challenges.

Why Join ICEYE?

At ICEYE, we’re not just launching satellites, we’re redefining what’s possible with SAR technology. Join a team of passionate innovators solving real-world challenges and making a tangible impact. We foster a dynamic and inclusive environment where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your contributions truly matter. With continuous learning opportunities, cutting-edge projects, and collaboration with industry-leading experts, you'll have the chance to grow, innovate, and shape the future of Earth Observation.

Profile of the Senior Optical Systems Engineer

We are looking for a Senior Optical Systems Engineer experienced in design, simulation, and hands-on work of the high-resolution spaceborne optical systems used for EO/ISR. Ideally, a person who has been involved in designing and building payloads from the ground up: starting from design, simulation, engineering models, lab testing through qualification campaigns to building flight units. Someone who has witnessed the in-orbit commissioning and calibration of the spaceborne electro-optical remote sensing instruments. A person curious and passionate about the optical imaging systems and working on cutting-edge projects.

Mission of the Senior Optical Systems Engineer

You will be a member of a "tiger team" responsible for the research, architecture, design, simulation, testing and build of the new generation of satellites. The team will bring the design into reality, including commissioning and operations of the imaging instrument, and all phases along the way: testing, qualification, verification and iterating on necessary steps.

Requirements

• Expert knowledge of imaging optics and physics related to optical systems design and operations.
• Familiarity with the key quality metrics for imaging optical systems. Understanding of engineering budgets (e.g. MTF, SNR), their contributors' impact and methods of verification. Familiarity with instrument calibration methods (geometric and radiometric).
• Proficiency with Zemax for optical systems design, analysis and simulation.
• Extensive experience in design, simulation, building and testing of the multi-mirror, multi-lens optical systems for imaging applications.
• Experience in optical systems bring-up, alignment, stabilization and verification methods.
• Experience in working with the optical laboratory setups: from components selection, through experiment design to results analysis, drawing conclusions and flowing it back to design-test process.
• Proactive attitude, willingness to work with the team, knowledge sharing, and active participation in creating solutions.
• Mindset of owning problems and solving them; capability of taking risks and leaning forward when needed. R&D style of learning by doing and iterating on the parts that require improvement.
• Previous experience with design of optical imaging systems for EO/ISR applications for satellites.

Nice-To-Haves

• Knowledge of the satellite systems and integration of the optical payload with satellite platforms.

Benefits

What’s In It for You?

• A job that matters in a dynamic Earth Observation environment with a scale-up approach
• An independent role with a supportive and diverse work environment
• A yearly benefit budget to spend as you wish (MyBenefit i.e. on sport, transport, wellness, lunch, tourism, etc.)
• Relocation support (i.e. flight tickets, accommodation, relocation agency support etc.)
• Time for self-development, research, training, conferences, or certification schemes
• Polish language lessons
• Occupational and private healthcare and life insurance
• Inspiring and collaborating offices and silent workspaces enable you to focus
• A wide variety of the best coffee, tea, snacks, and sweets to accompany your daily space mission

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At ICEYE, diversity is more than just a value - it's our greatest strength. We’re dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where every voice is not only heard but celebrated. Diverse perspectives drive innovation and creativity, so we actively seek individuals from all backgrounds and experiences.

No matter your background, we encourage you to bring your authentic self to the team. Join us and be part of a workplace where differences are embraced and valued, because together, we’re stronger.

Apply now to begin your ICEYE journey and help us make the impossible possible.

Learn more about ICEYE and life at our company at iceye.com.

Ready to launch your career? Apply now and help us build the future of Space Tech! 🚀