System Engineer - Quantum Technologies

Qabird; Noordwijk; On-site; EUR 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Qabird seeks a System Engineer to join the ESA EuroQCI program at ESTEC premises in Noordwijk, Netherlands. The role covers system engineering support across Space, Ground, and User Segments with emphasis on QKD technologies and architecture definition.

Ideal candidates have 5+ years in space systems, MBSE familiarity, and strong English communication. Occasional travel may be required, and the position adheres to a multicultural international environment.

Qualifications

• Master’s Degree or equivalent in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Electrical/Electronic Engineering or Similar technical field.
• At least 5 years of experience in Space Ground/Segment system engineering activities.
• Understanding of Space/Ground segment architecture & Interface Management.
• Knowledge of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) principles and Optical Communications.
• Experience in System Architecture definition and Trade-off Analysis.
• Desire to work autonomously and in an international multicultural environment.
• Fluent in English, both written and spoken.

Responsibilities

• Supporting system engineering activities for EuroQCI, including requirements definition and system architecture.
• Contributing to the design of quantum communication systems and Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technologies across Space, Ground, and User Segments.
• Supporting system integration activities and interface management.
• Participating in technical trade-offs and performance assessments.

Skills

System engineering

Requirements definition

QKD knowledge

Trade-off analysis

Multinational teams

Travel readiness

English fluency

Education

Master’s Degree in Aerospace/Physics/Electrical engineering or similar

Job description

System Engineer – Quantum Technologies

Location: Noordwijk, Netherlands

Application deadline: 24 August 2026

Reference number: 0467

Are you looking for a new opportunity to take your career to a higher orbit? To join an international group with a successful track record in Space Engineering? A job adapted to your career ambitions and in which you could have an impact for the years to come?

We are looking for a System Engineer to work at ESTEC’s premises in Noordwijk, Netherlands. You will be responsible for providing system engineering support in relation to ESA in-house activities for EuroQCI (European Quantum Communication Infrastructure) Entrusted Tasks.

About the client

ESA’s Directorate of Connectivity and Secure Communications (CSC) drives innovation in satellite telecommunications by coordinating research, supporting the development of advanced technologies, and fostering strong industrial partnerships across Europe and Canada. It plays a key role in enabling the creation of cutting-edge satellite-based products and services, while also investing in public-private partnerships to develop and demonstrate next-generation communication systems.

CSC is expanding its involvement in externally funded initiatives, notably contributing to the Union Secure Connectivity Programme (IRIS²), aimed at enhancing resilience, interconnectivity, and security through satellite infrastructure.

Tasks and activities

The scope of work shall include the following activities:

• Supporting system engineering activities for EuroQCI, including requirements definition and system architecture.


• Contributing to the design of quantum communication systems and Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technologies across Space, Ground, and User Segments.


• Supporting system integration activities and interface management.


• Participating in technical trade-offs and performance assessments.

Activities may include:

• Satellite and Constellation engineering.


• Functional and physical architecture definition.


• Interface definition.


• Verification and validation planning.


• Technical risk assessment.

Skills and experience

The following skills and experience are mandatory:

• Master’s Degree or equivalent in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Electrical/Electronic Engineering or Similar technical field.


• At least 5 years of experience in Space Ground/Segment system engineering activities.


• Understanding of Space/Ground segment architecture & Interface Management.


• Knowledge of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) principles and Optical Communications.


• Experience in System Architecture definition and Trade‑off Analysis.


• Desire to work both autonomously and as part of a team, in an international multicultural environment.


• Solution‑oriented mindset, with customer‑focused communication skills.


• Ability to travel on missions when required occasionally.


• Fluent in English, both written and spoken.

The following skills and experience would be highly desirable:

• Familiarity with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE).

Why should you apply?

• You will have the opportunity to work within leading space organisations across Europe.


• We encourage everyone to think outside the box and to push the boundaries of traditional knowledge. This role is an opportunity to join a forward‑thinking company and allows for a deeper understanding of the industry.


• To be part of a company that values integrity, inspiration, care and collaboration.


• Benefits include: competitive remuneration packages; unique career opportunities, including working in other countries; access to training and development programmes; flexible relocation support.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. We therefore welcome applications from all candidates, irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics.

As part of our commitment to providing an inclusive and barrier‑free recruitment process, we will provide reasonable adjustments and support to ensure neuro‑diverse applicants or those with a disability or long‑term condition can be their best during the recruitment process.