Optical SSA / Image Processing Engineer

Optical SSA / Image Processing EngineerThis is a future role. We're building a shortlist now and will contact you when it opens.About usFoundational is building the most precise picture of Earth and orbit, using lasers fired from the ground. We call it ground truth for orbit.We design and run low-cost, autonomous satellite laser ranging stations. They measure the distance to satellites with extreme precision, day and night. Our data platform turns those measurements into tracking data and orbit products for satellite operators, space agencies and governments. We also build our own flight-proven laser retroreflector arrays, so any satellite can be tracked.Our station network is expanding across Europe, South America, Africa and Australia. The data supports resilient navigation, Earth observation and the safe, sustainable use of space.We're a small, fast-moving team of engineers, scientists and operators in London. We're backed by venture investors and supported by ESA, the UK Space Agency, Innovate UK and the European Innovation Council.Position OverviewLondon · Full time · On-siteAs well as ranging with lasers, our stations track satellites optically. You'll build the image processing that finds, tracks and measures objects in our camera data.What you'll doDevelop pipelines for detection, streak extraction and astrometryCalibrate cameras and timing so that measurements are accurate and traceableBuild real-time processing to support closed-loop trackingValidate results against catalogue orbits and our own laser dataWork with the optics and software teams on camera selection and integrationWhat you'll bringA degree in physics, astronomy, computer science or similarImage processing and computer vision in Python or C++Astrometry and photometry experience, for example with astropy or Source ExtractorKnowledge of camera sensors: noise, calibration and time-stampingNice to haveSpace situational awareness or satellite trackingGPU processingMachine learning for detectionAmateur astronomyWhat We OfferA high-impact role with real ownership at an early-stage, venture-backed spacetech companyEMI share options (UK employees)25 Days Annual Leave + Bank HolidaysEnhanced Parental LeaveCycle to work schemesWork alongside engineers and scientists across optics, lasers, software and astrodynamicsOffices in central London, with snacks, tea, coffee and regular socialsWe actively champion underrepresented groups and seek to bridge gaps in our workforce. If you're excited by the role but don't match every point, or you’re seeking a part time role, please apply anyway and add a note into your application. Building the best team is our priority.Find more English Speaking Jobs in United Kingdom on Arbeitnow