System Engineer - Optical Ground Station for Space-Based QKD (all genders)

Join Our Mission to Advance Quantum Communication in Space The Role

We are expanding our team and are looking for a motivated systems engineer to drive the development of our next-generation Optical Ground Stations (OGS) for space-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). In this role, you will work at the interface of free-space optics, precise tracking of satellites (LEO, GEO), quantum detection systems, and system-level engineering.

Our ground stations integrate high-performance optical subsystems, telescopes, fine-tracking sensors, adaptive optics system, beacon lasers and our state-of-the-art Quantum Receiver, designed for ultra-low-noise single-photon detection, active polarization compensation, and high-rate key generation. If you are excited about building real-world infrastructure for long-distance quantum communication, this role is for you.

Key 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 optical frontend, tracking systems, turbulance mitigation system, time-bin/phase and polarization analysis module, 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.

Your Profile

• 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 turbulance mitigation
  • Field deployment of optical systems
  • Environmental testing or hardware verification
• Excellent communication skills and motivation to work in interdisciplinary engineering teams.

What we offer

• Work on mission-critical quantum communication systems that enable secure global networks.
• Contribute to hardware that actively operates in real-world satellite missions and international quantum communication testbeds.
• Join a fast-growing, interdisciplinary team spanning optics, electronics, mechanics, control systems, and quantum science.
• Shape and deploy state-of-the-art Optical Ground Stations and Quantum Receivers from prototypes to operational installations.
• Flat hierarchies, ownership, and the opportunity to drive innovation in an emerging deep-tech sector.
• 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

The minimum gross salary for this position is € 3,499.78 per month (based on full-time employment) in accordance with the collective agreement. However, there is a willingness to offer a higher salary depending on experience and qualifications.

Quantum Technology Laboratories GmbH is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees!

We look forward to receiving your application!