Quantum Communications Engineer

Grade :                      Research or Senior Associate

Salary :                      Grade and experience dependent, IRO £33-42,000

Term :                        Permanent

Role :                         Quantum Communications Engineer

Description :                   

Craft Prospect is looking to expand its space quantum technology team. We are looking for an individual experienced in applied quantum physics and/or optical communications to join our growing team. The initial focus of work will be in supporting the deployment and operations of first generation quantum (optical) communication systems in-orbit and on-ground working within a small specialised team within the company in support of both our own ESA/UKSA sponsored space mission VOLT (Versatile Optical Laboratory for Telecommunications) and those of third parties. We are looking for a candidate with experience in either applied quantum optics, such as at a research lab, or else be familiar with free-space optical communications in industry, and be looking for a challenging role to turn quantum theory into practical and robust applied systems.

The company seeks to develop a diverse and inclusive team, and encourages applications from all backgrounds. In recognition that different groups may respond to job specifications differently and that our developing talent pool can come from all quarters, we seek to minimise the number of prerequisites in any role and rather recruit for attitude, and ability to positively contribute to our small but growing team and our work.

Please note we also have similar graduate positions in quantum technology opening. Our graduate starting salaries begin at £27,500. Please respond to this advert clearly stating desire to apply as a graduate.

Prerequisites :               

3+ years experience in applied quantum physics (post-graduate) or freespace optical communications

Passionate hands-on ability to safely build and operate quantum optical subsystems

Responsibilities :           

Development of quantum communication subsystems for space and ground

Space-based quantum communication systems design

Use of specialised design tools for optical link modelling (SatQuMA)

Hands-on prototyping of systems using common optical components

Assembly, integration and test of quantum optical components

Discipline-based subsystem work - to a greater or lesser extent dependent on experience in one or more of the following:

·      Mechanical/optical design work in CAD (SolidWorks)

·      Embedded code (Python or C/C++) for microcontrollers

·      Electronic systems circuit design (Altium)

Quantum and optical communication protocol implementation

Generation of design and test documentation

Ability and initiative to work autonomously

Strong communication skills

Desire to work within a small dynamic team

Able to work in UK, from August 2025 onwards

Preferred :                       

Knowledge of quantum key distribution and/or secure networks

PhD or masters in quantum physics, applied optics or STEM equivalent*

Knowledge of CubeSat systems and design for space

* alternatively hands-on experience would be appropriate

Line Manager :               Quantum Technology Lead    

About us :                        

Craft Prospect is a young engineer-led company in its tenth year having consistently doubled turnover and headcount in early years, picking up a number of awards and recognitions along the way, before securing and leading on a multi-year €19Mn VOLT mission with the European Space Agency. We work on projects for commercial customers and space agencies, as well as cutting edge R&D. We want to develop our employees to become stakeholders within the organisation, able to work within a team leading projects and developing future space mission concepts to make a positive impact. Our diverse team includes former leads of national space missions, experienced industry professionals, and specialist experts in niche domains. You will be given the opportunity to support the ongoing development of the company, while we work with you to support your career aspirations.

Benefits :

·      4 day week option at 80% FTE (Tu-Fr minimum)*

·      Up to 18% pension (8% CPL plus up to 10% salary sacrifice)

·      Wellbeing and personal development budget

·      Team training and away days

·      Stake in employee ownership sharepool (holding 20% of business) and opportunity to earn your own shares via a Share Incentive Plan

* subject to legal requirements related to right to work

Location :                        Glasgow, UK

The business offers flexible working but requires at least 4 days in the office as baseline for the engineering team due to the nature of projects.

Applying :                        

Applicants should email a cover letter and CV to [email protected], using reference 25-01076.

Closing date :                 

An initial closing date of 4^th July 2025 is planned, however this may vary depending on the applicants and go live dates, so our recommendation would be to apply early.