Job Description: We are looking for a Technical Lead to join a cutting-edge space project focused on Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). In this role, you will act as the technical authority on behalf of TPZ, ensuring end-to-end system coherence across space, ground, and user segments, while leading requirements engineering, system design, and validation activities under the ECSS framework. You will play a key role in shaping the technical backbone of a highly innovative mission, contributing directly to secure communications of the future. Key Responsibilities Systems Engineering Lead and oversee system engineering activities, including high-level design of the complete LEO QKD system. Ensure technical and functional consistency across space segment (platform and quantum payload), ground segment (GCS, OGS, KMS), and user segment. Define and maintain the end-to-end system architecture and product tree. Requirements Engineering Lead the identification, analysis, and consolidation of mission and subsystem requirements (Ground Control Segment). Coordinate the definition of preliminary cybersecurity requirements across all segments. Support the definition of Mission Simulator requirements. Design & Development Lead the design of Ground Control Segment subsystems and the integration of the Quantum Uplink Node and its interfaces. Contribute to the Mission Simulator design. Integration, Verification & Validation (IVV) Define and supervise IVV plans at system and subsystem levels. Oversee verification documentation and test plan development. Ensure consistency between requirements, design, simulations, and test results. Operational Concept (CONOPS) Lead the definition and evolution of the end-to-end operational concept. Oversee key management processes, including generation, distribution, and demand planning. Coordinate mission planning and orchestration across space and ground segments. Technical Coordination Act as the cross-functional technical authority within an international consortium (industry, agencies, and research centers). Manage system interfaces and technical trade-offs at a global level. Required Skills & Knowledge Space Systems Engineering Expertise in ECSS standards and methodologies (New Space context preferred). Experience in LEO mission design and analysis. Strong understanding of complex end-to-end space system architectures. Quantum & Optical Communications Knowledge of Free Space Optical Communications (FSOC). Understanding of QKD systems and quantum communication principles. Familiarity with secure communication standards and European programs (EuroQCI, IRIS2). Ground Segment & Operations Experience with Mission Control Systems (MCS). Knowledge of mission planning and optimization. IVV & Requirements Management Strong background in validation and verification of complex systems. Experience with requirements traceability tools and methodologies. Ability to define test scenarios and acceptance criteria. Cybersecurity Understanding of system-level cybersecurity in space and communications systems. Experience applying “security-by-design” principles. Knowledge of QKD-related security concepts. Experience Required Minimum 10 years of experience in Systems Engineering for space missions or complex systems. Proven experience leading requirements and IVV activities in multi-stakeholder environments. Background in mission control systems design and operations planning. Experience in optical communications, satcom, or secure systems. Previous participation in international consortia (industry, agencies, research institutions). Why this role matters Drive the technical coherence of an end-to-end LEO QKD system. Reduce integration and technological risks in an innovative IOD mission. Enable the transition from early design to future operational systems. Take ownership of the Ground Control Segment specification and design. Seniority: Primary Location: ES - Madrid Additional Locations: ES - Barcellona Contract Type: Permanent Hybrid Working: International, multicultural, innovative, technological: this is Leonardo. The company’s passionate and talented team is strongly influenced by STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) expertise, with a diverse range of experience that enables colleagues to share knowledge and know-how across the generations. Leonardo always wants to expand its talent pool, here you can find the right opportunity for you!

Technical Lead – Satellite QKD System (LEO).

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