About the role

Engineer driving the next generation of Quantum Key Distribution payloads for space applications. Contributing across projects, focusing on quantum technologies and thermo-mechanical engineering.

Responsibilities

Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of our QKD payload, from concept through flight qualification.
Drive technical decisions within your domain and take ownership of subsystem design choices.
Collaborate closely with electronics engineers (opto-electronics, digital/analog, FPGA interfaces) and thermo-mechanical engineers (thermal control, structural design).
Plan and execute laboratory verification, characterization, and system-level testing of optical, electronic, and QKD-specific components.
Prepare technical documentation, test reports, interface specifications, and customer deliverables.
Support external environmental and space-qualification campaigns (vibration, TVAC, radiation, EMC).
Contribute to continuous systemization and maintain clear requirements, interfaces, and architecture documentation.
Work across several mission and technology projects simultaneously, contributing QKD expertise and hands-on engineering.

Degree in physics, electrical engineering, photonics, aerospace engineering, or related field; background in Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) or quantum optics strongly preferred.
Solid understanding of QKD protocols, photon sources/detectors, optical components, timing/synchronization, and system architectures.
Experience with laboratory work (optical setups, measurement equipment, data acquisition).
Ability to work autonomously, make informed technical decisions, and drive design iterations.
Strong analytical mindset with attention to detail and documentation discipline.
Excellent communication skills and motivation to work in interdisciplinary teams.
Experience in space systems, environmental testing, or hardware verification is a plus, but not required.

Work on mission-critical quantum technologies that will define future secure communication infrastructure.
Join a fast-growing, interdisciplinary team with experts in optics, electronics, mechanics, and quantum science.
Shape real hardware that goes into space - prototypes, flight models, and qualification campaigns.
Flat hierarchies, ownership, and the opportunity to drive innovation in a rapidly evolving field.
A collaborative and innovative environment in Vienna, a global hub for quantum research and space technology.
Flexible work arrangements in a hybrid model combining remote and onsite collaboration.
The opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future of quantum technologies.
Balanced work-life integration for our employees.
Attractive workplace with excellent infrastructure at Wienerberg.
Great Italian espresso.
Humorous and friendly work atmosphere.