(Senior) Engineer, Quantum Communication

(Senior) Engineer, Quantum Communication

SES is recruiting a (Senior) Engineer, Quantum Communication who will support the preparation of technical proposals in response to international tenders and contribute to developing, implementing, and improving ground- and space-based services and systems.

 

Key activities include the technical aspects of Quantum Key Distribution Networks (QKDN), both terrestrial and space-based, following up on the procurement of terrestrial and satellite units and subsystems from definition to launch and operations, as well as being the prime point of contact for subcontractors and the SES team regarding the technical matters of different Quantum-related projects.

 

The (Senior) Engineer, Quantum Communication will be integrated into an international team of highly skilled engineers and gradually take on more responsibilities. Depending on the projects' nature and scope, he will either be in charge or supporting the below-listed responsibilities. One of the projects in which the (Senior) Engineer, Quantum Communication will work is EAGLE-1. SES is heading a consortium of industrial partners to create a quantum cryptographic communications system (EAGLE-1) under the agreement with ESA, enhancing Europe's leadership in quantum communications. It's a novel platform for distributed networks that provides a global service for next-generation encryption keys.

 

You will be responsible for (this is not an exhaustive list):

• Deliver proposals, projects, and services to external and internal customers within the agreed budget, specification, and schedule, meaning:
  • Perform technical analysis and design of Quantum Key Distribution Networks (QKDN), encompassing both terrestrial and space-based systems, at both the system and subsystem levels, with a particular focus on optimising interfaces among diverse internal and external entities.
  • Conduct follow-up of procurement of QKDN equipment from specification to operations.
  • Perform technical follow-up of procurement of satellite units or subsystems (e.g. payload) from definition throughout launch and operations
  • Be the prime point of contact for subcontractors and the SES team regarding the technical matters in various Quantum-related activities
  • Analyse and decompose the higher-level requirements into more detailed ones related to QKDN, with particular focus on space-based systems.
  • Assess deviations from requirements and evaluate their impact at a higher level to ensure that a critical part of the system and mission objectives are achieved.
  • Provide technical reports and analyses for the relevant unit or subsystem (such as design definition, design rationale, ICD, and technical budgets).
  • Review the technical documentation (e.g., design documentation, test methods, reports) and assess the content's validity.
  • Define comprehensive test plans and procedures to ensure the system satisfies its requirements, performs as intended; and assist with test operations. 
  • Handle budgets, handle procurements, manage installations and the operational handover of ground segment and communications systems.
  • In the scope of the project, coordinate with other functions (Project Management, Project Control, Legal, Finance) for the transparent and effective realisation of assigned projects. 
  • In coordination with the Service Management team, prepare operational procedures and ensure the second Level Customer Support for the delivered system.
  • Interface and engage with external partners (e.g. customers, Consortium partners and suppliers, vendors, etc.).
  • Identify and develop new opportunities focused on the quantum communication infrastructure and other current and planned TechCom technology and service developments.
• Take an active part in SES TechCom's proposal activities through the provision of Technical Specifications, Statement of Works (SOW's) and Cost Estimations, in response to customer Requests For Information (RFI) and customer Requests For Proposals (RFP), whereby the activities could include the set-up, supervision and coordination of interdisciplinary proposal teams in the function of the technical and commercial proposal preparation and along contract negotiation process.
• Proactively scopes the technical solution required to address customer requirements, assesses customers' met and unmet needs, and recommends solutions that optimise value for both the customer and the firm.
• Awareness and evaluation of relevant technological developments, industry trends, emerging technologies, competitive factors, customer requirements, standardisation licensing and regulatory aspects.

 

YOUR PROFILE:

• Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronics, or similar field (a combinat