At Zero Point Motion, we’re challenging the limits of what’s possible in inertial sensing. Our mission is to combine cutting-edge cavity optomechanics with MEMS and photonic integrated circuits (PICs) to deliver aerospace-grade precision to commercial markets. This is not business as usual. We’re rethinking sensor systems from the ground up—embracing cross-domain innovation, tackling the impossible, and delivering technology that transforms how the world navigates and interacts with data. 

 We’re looking for a meticulous, hands-on engineer with a passion for designing, testing and optimising cutting-edge technology.  

As our R&D Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in developing and executing our testing frameworks, enabling precision measurements for our chip-scale devices. You’ll combine your expertise in electronics, mechanical design and test automation to create robust systems for characterisation of lasers, photodetectors, and work on hardware design for streamlined testing and integration.

The experience you have:

• Strong foundation in electronics, photonics, and optoelectronics.

• Proven experience in testing optical signals (e.g., phase noise, intensity noise) and electronic systems.

• Familiarity with chip-scale devices, particularly lasers and photodetectors.

Core Skills: 

• Experience with low-noise electrical design and PCB layout tools.

• Proficiency in programming test automation (e.g., C#, Python, C).

• Hands-on expertise in CAD software for designing mounts and fixtures. 

Bonus Knowledge: 

• Experience working with robotic systems for test automation.

• Familiarity with cleanroom processes and handling bare optical chips is highly desirable.

Personal Attributes:

• Meticulous and detail-oriented with a focus on creating low-noise, precision setups.

• Curious and innovative, with a passion for solving complex technical challenges.

• Strong communicator and collaborator, able to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.

Key responsibilities will include:

 Electronics design and testing:

• Design and code test sessions for our automated system to perform measurements of optical and electronic components.

• Implement techniques to test phase and intensity noise in lasers, photodetectors, and optical systems.

• Develop low-noise electrical designs and PCBs to support high-fidelity measurements.

• Debug and optimize electrical systems to achieve precision performance metrics.

• Design setups to measure and validate our packaged sensors over range of operation conditions. 

Hardware and CAD:

• Design and fabricate mechanical mounts and fixtures for optical and electronic testing using CAD tools.

• Integrate these designs into setups that ensure mechanical and thermal stability.

Data Analysis and Automation:

• Write software to automate test setups, including robotic alignment, optical tuning, and data collection.

• Create intuitive data visualization tools for analysing test results at scale.

• Apply statistical analysis and machine learning to identify trends and optimize designs.

What the package for this role will look like:

• Competitive salary (shown in open roles)

• Generous company package including share options, Royal London pension, and sick pay

• Flexible working arrangements depending on role

Zero Point Motion is determined to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are committed to providing a work environment where there’s a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination, and everyone is treated with respect. Equity, diversity and inclusion are central to our mission and we strongly encourage candidates of all different backgrounds and identities to apply. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us.