Control Systems Engineer

Archangel Lightworks is a connectivity company building wireless technology to create the space-enabled networks of the future. We’re passionate about improving humanity’s communications infrastructure and solving some of Earth’s most critical problems from economic inclusion to climate change. Our start-up is a fast-paced and supportive environment, where you can make your mark as part of a growing team and work on the cutting-edge of innovation. We’re looking for a Control Systems Engineer to join our growing team and deliver transformative laser communications technology. You will be responsible for developing, documenting, and testing control systems for ground and space-based optical terminals. Your responsibilities will include: * Developing and testing algorithms for control of coarse and fine pointing systems for optical communication, including electrical motors, fast steering mirrors (FSMs), adaptive optics, and a range of optical sensors. * Delivering documentation and providing technical support for the Software team to implement the above algorithms. * Develop and maintain HIL real-time simulations to test control Software requirements against simulations. * Perform trade-off analysis of different control concepts, components, and architectures. * Maintain pointing budgets and ensure control systems fulfil systems requirements. Requirements: * At least 3 years of relevant commercial experience developing control systems for complex electromechanical, optical, aerospace, or robotic systems. * A degree in Control Engineering, Electrical or Electronic Engineering, Robotics, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or a related technical discipline. * Practical experience designing, modelling, implementing, and testing control algorithms for dynamic systems. * Proficiency with modelling and simulation tools such as MATLAB and Simulink, or equivalent platforms. * Ability to translate system-level requirements into control-system requirements, test cases, and verification activities. * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to diagnose complex system behaviour using test data and simulations. Desirable additional skills: * Experience developing pointing, acquisition, and tracking systems for optical communications, telescopes, imaging systems, or similar precision applications. * Knowledge of coarse and fine pointing architectures, including gimbals, reaction wheels, fast steering mirrors, and piezoelectric actuators. * Experience using real-time simulation and test platforms such as Speedgoat, National Instruments, or equivalent systems. * Knowledge of model-based design, automatic code generation, and software-in-the-loop testing. * Experience working within a start-up, research and development, or rapidly evolving engineering environment. Location: Our office is based in Osney Mead, Oxford. There will be opportunity to work from home as agreed with your line manager. Compensation & Perks: * The opportunity to make a difference building cutting edge technology to support a world-changing vision * Options for hybrid working and custom arrangements that matter to you * 25 days annual leave allowance plus bank holidays * Equity options in a growing start-up * Investment in you to help you grow, with training resources and budget. * Supportive team culture with high levels of ownership and responsibility. * Regular socials and weekly team lunch * Variety of additional perks including learning and wellbeing app subscriptions