Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) Payload Engineer (all genders)

Join Our Mission to Advance Quantum Communication i... 1 Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) Payload Engineer (all genders) The Role We are expanding our team and are looking for a motivated engineer to drive the next generation of our Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) payloads for space applications. You will contribute across multiple projects, working at the intersection of quantum technologies, electronics, and thermo-mechanical engineering. If you are excited about bringing cutting-edge quantum communication into orbit, this role is for you. Key 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. Your Profile * 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. * Communication skills according to the requirements and motivation to work in interdisciplinary teams. * Experience in space systems, environmental testing, or hardware verification is a plus, but not required. What we offer * 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 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. Working time and location - Full time - 08:00 - 17:00 or by appointment - Vienna, 1100 Send your application documents to: for the attention of  Raphael Schmid. Please include in the subject line the job reference  17104571URM Das Mindestentgelt für die Stelle als Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) Payload Engineer (all genders) beträgt 3.499,78 EUR brutto pro Monat auf Basis Vollzeitbeschäftigung. Bereitschaft zur Überzahlung.