About the role

Systems Engineer at Quantum Technology Laboratories designing Optical Ground Stations for space-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems. Collaborating on multidisciplinary projects involving optics, electronics, and quantum communications.

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 system, 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
Attractive workplace with excellent infrastructure at Wienerberg
Great Italian espresso
Humorous and friendly work atmosphere
Balanced work-life integration for our employees