About the role

System Engineer developing optical ground stations for Quantum Key Distribution at Quantum Technology Laboratories. Collaborating with interdisciplinary team to enhance communication technologies.

Responsibilities

Contribute to the design, development, and manufacturing of our Optical Ground Stations for satellite-to-ground QKD links
Take ownership of subsystem design choices, including the optical frontend, tracking systems, turbulence mitigation systems, time-bin/phase and polarization analysis modules, and single-photon detection modules
Work closely with experts in optics, electronics, control systems, and quantum communications to deliver robust, high-performance OGS solutions
Integrate and optimize components such as telescopes, tracking cameras, beacon lasers, quantum receivers, polarization optics, and timing/synchronization modules
Plan and execute laboratory verification, field testing, and link characterization campaigns for OGS prototypes and deployed systems
Contribute to and maintain system requirements, optical budgets, interface definitions, and architecture documentation
Perform system-level modeling and analysis of link performance (attenuation, turbulence, pointing/tracking error budgets, synchronization)
Support on-site installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of OGS systems at customer locations or demonstration sites
Prepare technical documentation, test reports, interface specifications, and customer deliverables
Collaborate across several mission and technology projects simultaneously, ensuring consistent architectural and performance standards.

Degree in optical engineering, physics, electrical engineering, photonics, aerospace engineering, or a related field
Strong understanding of free-space optical communication, telescope systems, optics, and tracking/control concepts
Familiarity with quantum receivers, including single-photon detectors, low-noise readout electronics, polarization optics, and active stabilization methods
Experience with optical laboratory setups, measurement equipment, and hands-on system integration
Ability to work autonomously, make informed technical decisions, and drive design iterations
Solid analytical skills and attention to detail, especially in documentation, testing, and interface-driven development
Experience in any of the following is a strong plus: satellite-to-ground optical communication or QKD; control systems for tracking, pointing, and synchronization; adaptive optics for turbulence mitigation; field deployment of optical systems; environmental testing or hardware verification
Excellent communication skills and motivation to work in interdisciplinary engineering teams.

Flexible work arrangements in a hybrid model combining remote and onsite collaboration
Balanced work–life integration for our employees
Attractive workplace with excellent infrastructure at Wienerberg
Great Italian espresso
Humorous and friendly work atmosphere