Optical Engineer

Full-time position.

Onsite 5 days a week - Chiswick, London.

Design the Future of Sustainable Storage

At HoloMem, we’re building the next generation of long-term data storage — radically efficient, ultra-durable, and environmentally sustainable. Our pioneering holographic storage technology encodes data as light within advanced materials, creating a resilient alternative to today’s short-lived, energy-intensive cloud infrastructure.

Having partaken in both the Intel Ignite and Deeptech Labs accelerators in 2024, awarded two Innovate UK Smart Grants, we’ve recently closed our Seed+ raise and are accelerating development. HoloMem is now looking to expedite the development of its pioneering technology by growing its team of problem solvers to support our exciting next chapter.

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail oriented Optical Engineer with expertise in designing, simulating, and testing optical systems to join our team. This position is ideal for someone passionate about Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline who has hands on experience in optical design and simulation.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design and optimise optical systems using Zemax OpticStudio.

  • Perform tolerance and thermal analysis on optical system designs.

  • Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to ensure seamless integration of optical components into systems.

  • Analyse system performance and contribute to design improvements based on simulations and experimental data.

  • Document designs, simulation results, and technical specifications.

Qualification

  • Education: MSc or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.

  • Strong hands on experience with Zemax opticStudio or Code V is essential (minimum 2 years)

Technical Skills

  • Familiarity with optical systems including imaging optics, illumination optics, laser optics, or fibre optics.

  • Proficiency in optical modelling and optimisation using Zemax sequential and non-sequential ray tracing.

  • Experience with optomechanical design and tolerancing.

  • Familiarity with MATLAB, Python, or other scripting tools for optical analysis.

  • Understanding of fabrication and assembly tolerances and how they impact optical performance.

  • Strong analytical and problem solving skills.

  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.

  • Ability to work independently and as part of a cross functional team.

Bonus Skills

  • Experience with laser beam shaping, illumination design, or knowledge of lens manufacturing processes.

  • Knowledge of optical metrology and testing techniques.

  • Experience in designing custom optics and imaging lens assemblies.

  • Bench top optical alignment and testing skills.

  • Experience with CAD software.

Benefits

  • Competitive compensation

  • 25 days holiday

  • Payment matched pension

  • Cycle to work scheme

How to Apply

Send us your CV and a portfolio (PDF format) to careers@holomem.co.uk or use the link below. Show us what you’ve designed, built, or tested. If you’re excited about the mission — even if you don’t meet every requirement — we’d love to hear from you.

HoloMem is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to building an inclusive environment for all.