Founder Associate

DiPOLE Systems is developing advanced laser systems for real-world deployment across defence, energy and industrial applications. We are building a company around technically ambitious hardware, where success depends not only on the quality of the underlying technology, but on the ability to execute complex programmes and translate capability into deployed systems.

About DiPOLE Systems

We are a venture-backed deep-tech company developing high-performance laser systems that combine high power with high repetition rates. Built on core IP developed at STFC’s Central Laser Facility, our work focuses on translating world-leading science into products that can be manufactured, deployed and supported in the field. DiPOLE systems are already in use at major international research facilities, and we are now scaling the company for wider commercial and government deployment.

Why now

We have recently closed our seed round and are moving from technical demonstration into active programme delivery. This next stage involves building product lines, executing complex industrial and government programmes, and putting in place the systems and processes needed to scale effectively. It is an unusually valuable moment to join: early enough to have real influence, but with clear momentum already behind the business.

The role

We are hiring a Founder’s Associate to work directly with the CEO and other founders on the company’s most important execution challenges. This is a high-trust generalist role with real ownership, designed for someone who can bring structure to ambiguity, drive cross-cutting work forward, and translate decisions into execution across the business.

The Founder’s Associate role exists because there is more to do than a small leadership team can execute alone — and because speed and judgement matter.

What success looks like

In this role, success means increasing the company’s capacity to execute. You will help ensure that important decisions become owned workstreams, that cross-functional priorities move faster, and that technical, commercial and operational efforts stay aligned as the business scales.

What you’ll do

• Drive cross-functional projects spanning engineering, commercial and operations
• Turn Board, investor and leadership decisions into owned, executed workstreams
• Support major partnerships, contracts and government-backed programmes from scoping through delivery
• Synthesise technical, commercial and regulatory information into clear recommendations for decision making
• Take ownership of ambiguous problems where there is no obvious existing owner

What you’ll bring

Essential

• Strong generalist problem-solving ability, sound judgement and high standards for execution
• Comfort working with ambiguity and incomplete information
• Clear written and verbal communication with senior technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Demonstrated ability to take ownership and deliver outcomes
• Able to work primarily on-site at Harwell Campus, Didcot

Desirable

• Background in engineering, physics, systems, economics or a related discipline
• Experience in deep-tech, hardware, R&D-led or regulated environments
• Exposure to government, defence or research-led programmes
• Interest in developing into a longer-term leadership role at the company

Why join DiPOLE

This is an opportunity to join early and help shape a venture-backed deep-tech company at a pivotal stage of growth. The role offers unusual exposure across technology, strategy, operations and commercial execution, with close access to senior decision-making and meaningful responsibility from the outset.

Compensation & practicalities

• Salary: £45,000–£60,000, depending on experience
• Equity: share options (details discussed during the process)
• Based at Harwell Campus, Didcot
• Primarily on-site, with flexibility where compatible with programme delivery

Hiring process

We aim to run a clear process: an application form, an initial call, an in-depth interview, and a practical discussion based on a real business or execution challenge. We will share what to expect in advance and are happy to make reasonable adjustments for candidates who need them.

How to apply

To apply, please send your CV and a short cover note to recruitment@dipolesystems.com outlining your interest in the role and the experience you would bring.

If you are not sure you tick every box but you think you would be great in the role, we would still like to hear from you.