Mechanical Design Engineer

About the Position

The Mechanical Design Engineer will join the hardware team focused on developing the mechanical components for Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems. Key responsibilities include designing custom 19-inch rack-mounted sheet-metal enclosures, internal mechanical supports for boards and optical modules, and housings for internal modules. From concept through 3D CAD design, manufacturing preparation, prototyping, and integration, this role involves hands-on collaboration with sheet-metal and CNC fabrication suppliers. While Fusion 360 is currently used, candidates may propose alternative design software tools.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer custom 19-inch rackmount enclosures including folded sheet metal parts, applying accurate bend allowances and design-for-manufacturing principles for front and back panels and rack mountings.
• Create internal mechanical elements such as mounting trays, brackets, and supports that secure boards and subsystems.
• Design CNC-machined housings and parts for optical and electronic internal modules with a focus on manufacturability.
• Prepare complete manufacturing drawings and Bills of Materials (BOMs); manage relationships with sheet-metal and CNC suppliers and collaborate with external design houses or ODMs if needed.
• Lead prototype development, conduct fit verifications, and iterate designs until production-ready.
• Support electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and compliance through well-planned mechanical design, including gasketing and grounding/bonding provisions, collaborating with electronics personnel and external test labs.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams including optics, electronics, FPGA, and software to define mechanical interfaces, spatial envelopes, and mounting solutions.
• Maintain thorough documentation such as drawings, tolerance analyses, and change logs.

Candidate Requirements

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline with at least 3 years of experience designing mechanical enclosures and hardware for instrumentation or telecommunications/datacenter products.
• Proven expertise in sheet-metal part design (folded/bent) with precise bend allowance calculations and design for manufacturing, along with CNC-machined part design emphasizing milling DFM, proper fits, tolerances, and finishes.
• Practical experience designing 19-inch rackmount enclosures.
• A proactive, hands-on approach to prototyping and an ability to collaborate effectively across optics, electronics, and systems engineering teams.
• Excellent command of written and spoken English.
• Willingness to work on-site in Munich or Potsdam offices as needed.
• Legal authorization to work in Germany at application time (no visa sponsorship provided).
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret or higher security clearance, or EU SECRET or national equivalent personnel security clearance; employment subject to meeting government security standards and approval by competent authorities.
• Desirable qualifications include experience with tamper-resistant, secure, or defense-grade enclosures; a sensibility for industrial design and premium finishes such as anodizing and custom front panels; and knowledge of EMC/EMI gasketing and shielding.

What We Offer

• Membership in an international, innovative quantum technology expert team and a progressive leadership environment.
• Exposure to cutting-edge developments in quantum science and engineering.
• Opportunities to contribute to one of Europe’s foremost quantum technology firms for the foreseeable future.
• A welcoming, professional, and friendly work culture fostering trust, excellence, and continuous growth.
• Personalized development plans with clear career advancement goals.
• Competitive remuneration.
• Flexible working arrangements including remote work and office options.
• A diverse and supportive community that encourages initiative and innovation.

About Terra Quantum

Terra Quantum is dedicated to advancing the global quantum revolution by developing pioneering quantum technologies. Bridging classical computing and quantum systems, Terra Quantum offers "quantum-as-a-service" including hybrid algorithms, quantum compute, and quantum-enabled security solutions through a proprietary cloud platform. With significant funding secured in 2022, the company drives real-world problem solving across domains like logistics, healthcare, finance, energy, automotive, and aerospace.

Terra Quantum’s mission is to pioneer quantum technologies to improve the world. The company fosters an inclusive, diverse culture committed to employee well-being and equal opportunity.