QKD Security Engineer (all genders)

Join Our Mission to Advance Trusted Quantum Communication At Quantum Technology Laboratories GmbH (qtlabs), we are developing next-generation quantum communication technologies for space and terrestrial applications. Our work combines quantum optics, cryptography, and advanced engineering to create practical systems for secure communication in the quantum era. Based in Vienna, our team brings together experts in quantum key distribution (QKD), optical communication, system engineering, and security-critical technologies. We are now looking for an Expert for secure implementation of QKD Systems to strengthen our expertise in the secure implementation, validation, and certification readiness of QKD devices and networks. 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. The Role We are looking for an Expert for secure implementation of QKD Systems to strengthen the security engineering, system engineering, and certification readiness of our next-generation quantum communication systems. In this role, you will develop architectures for integrating QKD devices into larger communication networks and infrastructures. You will contribute to security risk assessments, identify threats and countermeasures at device level, and derive requirements for the secure implementation of QKD devices and QKD networks. Working closely with Security Architects, Security Proof Experts, system engineers, hardware and software teams, you will help align security concepts, implementation assumptions, and practical system designs. Your work will bridge security engineering and system engineering and contribute to the development of secure, validated, and certifiable QKD devices. You will also support certification activities, contribute to validation strategies, assist in the development of validation equipment and testbenches, and engage with stakeholders such as governmental agencies, space agencies, evaluation laboratories, partners, and customers. Key Responsibilities • Develop secure architectures for integrating QKD devices into terrestrial, space-based, and hybrid communication networks. • Contribute to security risk assessments for QKD devices, QKD networks, and their operational environments. • Identify and evaluate threats, countermeasures, and security requirements at the level of QKD devices, interfaces, network integration, and operational procedures. • Translate security concepts, assumptions, and implementation requirements into concrete system engineering inputs. • Work closely with Security Architects, Security Proof Experts, and engineering teams to align security proofs, implementation assumptions, system design, and secure implementation. • Lead or assist certification-related activities, including evidence preparation, technical documentation, and coordination with evaluation laboratories. • Assist in the development of validation equipment, testbenches, test procedures, and validation strategies for QKD devices. • Review and contribute to system designs, device architectures, interface specifications, and implementation choices from a security perspective. • Engage with governmental agencies, space agencies, customers, partners, and certification bodies on security-related topics. Required Qualifications • University degree in physics, quantum technologies, electrical engineering, computer science, cybersecurity, mathematics, or a related technical field. • Experience in QKD, quantum communication, or related high-security technologies. • Previous experience in a role such as system engineer, security engineer, security architect, QKD engineer, or a comparable technical position. • Understanding of QKD devices, including their architecture, implementation principles, limitations, and security-relevant assumptions. • Ability to bridge theoretical security concepts with practical engineering constraints. • Experience working with multidisciplinary teams across physics, optics, electronics, software, systems engineering, and cybersecurity. • Strong communication skills and the ability to interact confidently with technical and non-technical stakeholders. • High level of ownership, structured thinking, and reliability in security-critical environments. Nice to Have • Specialization in satellite-based QKD, space-based quantum communication, optical satellite links, or related space security technologies. • Hands-on laboratory experience with QKD devices, optical systems, photonic components, or quantum communication test setups. • Experience developing or operating validation equipment, testbenches, or laboratory procedures for QKD or optical communication systems. • Experience with certification, evaluation, or assurance processes for security-critical technologies. • Knowledge of security standards, evaluation schemes, Common Criteria, ISO/IEC 15408, ETSI, ITU-T, or other relevant cryptographic or communication security standards. • Experience with device characterization, side-channel analysis, implementation attacks, or physical-layer security. • Familiarity with security proofs for QKD protocols and their practical implementation assumptions. What We Offer • The opportunity to work on cutting-edge quantum communication technologies with real-world security impact. • The opportunity to grow within the company and develop into a senior role over time. • A technical role at the intersection of QKD, cybersecurity, system engineering, certification, and space communication. • The chance to shape how QKD devices are securely implemented, validated, certified, and integrated into future communication networks. • Collaboration with leading experts, international partners, governmental stakeholders, and customers. • A dynamic deep-tech environment with short decision paths and strong technical ownership. • A modern workplace in Vienna with flexible and hybrid working options. 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!