EuroQCI Security Systems Engineer

Deadline to apply: 30/03/2026

We are looking for a EuroQCI Systems Engineer to complete our consultants’ Workforce Management Service to support ESA’s Directorate of Connectivity and Secure Communications (CSC) at ESA’s premises, mainly ESTEC (Noordwijk, NL).    

CSC supports innovation in satellite telecommunications and the development of advanced applications using space-based systems. Through research, development, and industrial partnerships, CSC contributes to strengthening the European and Canadian satellite communications sectors.  

CSC also supports major public–private initiatives focused on the development of new satellite systems, validation of innovative services, and deployment of secure telecommunications capabilities. A growing portion of CSC activities involves third-party funded programmes, particularly within the Union Secure Connectivity Programme (IRIS²).  

The CTAS will provide support to CSC with a multidisciplinary, onsite team of specialists who deliver technical, management, engineering, and security expertise across the IRIS² and EuroQCI programmes. The service supports CSC by reinforcing programme management, procurement, system design, verification, validation, security, and governance activities, enabling ESA to execute its entrusted responsibilities from the European Commission.  

Through its work packages, CTAS personnel integrate directly into CSC project teams, ensuring daytoday operational continuity, rigorous technical assessment, configuration and project control discipline, and support throughout all major ESA reviews and milestones. By deploying experts across spacecraft systems, ground segment development, telecommunications, quantum communications, security accreditation, and project governance, the service ensures CSC can efficiently manage complex, multipartner programmes and maintain compliance with ESA, EC, and security requirements, ultimately strengthening Europe’s secure connectivity and communications capabilities.  

Please note, the successful candidate will be employed by ATG Europe (or one of its subsidiaries). Furthermore, upon selection, they will be subject to a general security screening performed by an external provider (further information will be provided at the interview stage). Candidates must have or be eligible to obtain Personal Security Clearance (PSC) up to ESA SECRET / EU SECRET. 

The successful candidate will be tasked with, but not limited to:

• End-to-end security analysis of Quantum Key Distribution systems;

• Authentication mechanisms;

• Key Management Systems;

• Security proofs and formal security analysis;

• Information-theoretic security assessments;

• Security risk assessments;

• Vulnerability analysis;

• Definition and assessment of security measures;

• Support to architecture definition, design reviews, and validation of security concepts;

• Assessment of security documentation;

• Raise and document review comments;

• Participate in technical exchanges with industry;

• Support closure of security-related review items.

ATG is dedicated to diversity and inclusion and is an equal opportunity employer. Regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, handicap, or any other reason protected by relevant state or municipal legislation, we are pleased to consider all eligible candidates for employment. 

Please ensure that your CV clearly explains how you meet the mandatory requirements. If it doesn’t align completely with the essential criteria, it could result in rejection.

• Masters Degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, Telecommunications, or Systems Engineering;

• At least 4 years of experience in security engineering, including in one or more of the following topics:

  • Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) security;

  • Cryptographic protocols & authentication;

  • Key Management Systems;

  • Information theoretic security;

  • Vulnerability or risk assessments.

• Ability to perform end to end security analysis, including architecture review, threat modelling, and definition/assessment of security measures;

• Experience reviewing technical security documentation and preparing security related comments, analyses, or review inputs;

• Familiarity with technical milestone reviews (e.g., SRR, PDR, CDR, QR) and ability to participate in technical exchanges with industry;

• Experience producing structured security reports, such as risk assessments, vulnerability analyses, technical notes, or RIDs;

• Strong analytical thinking, precision in documentation, and ability to communicate complex security topics clearly;

• Background in quantum communications or quantum cryptography is an asset;

• Understanding of space systems, ground segment architecture, or secure communication infrastructures is an asset;

• Knowledge of ESA/ECSS processes, system engineering methodologies, or security accreditation frameworks is an asset;

• Experience in formal security proofs or model based security analysis is an asset;

• Willingness to travel occasionally to industrial sites;

• Candidates must be eligible to live and work in the EU;

• Candidates must be eligible for Personal Security Clearance (PSC) to ESA SECRET/EU SECRET level; 

• Fluency in English, both written and spoken.

Please submit your application in English via the apply button below. Applications submitted in other languages will not be considered.

Early applications are encouraged as they allow for a smooth and efficient recruitment process. Please do not wait until the deadline to submit your application.