Job Description

FSO Optical Communication Expert for Drone Applications (f/m/d)

We are looking for an expert in FSO Optical Communication for drone and UAV applications with strong system engineering and project management experience. In this role you will focus on the development and deployment of high-performance FSO links for airborne platforms, with particular emphasis on reliability, environmental robustness, and mission-critical performance.

What You’ll Do

Lead system trade studies, end-to-end analyses, and formal design reviews. Conduct applied research through simulation, experimental measurement, and literature review; develop optical link budgets including atmospheric propagation effects; evaluate and mature novel technical approaches. Define system requirements, interfaces, and architectures for UAV-based free-space optical FSO communication links. Assume an active role in project and product management, serving both as technical lead and contributing team member; plan and manage development milestones from early prototypes through flight-qualified subsystems. Coordinate and align activities across optical, electrical, mechanical, and UAV engineering disciplines. Support the build, integration, and verification of optical communication prototypes in laboratory and field environments. Provide technical leadership to ensure delivery against performance objectives, schedules, and program commitments.

What You Bring

Education:

Master’s or PhD in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related discipline.

Experience:

At least 5-10 years of experience in free-space optical communications or related optical system development. In-depth understanding of laser communication theory, modulation, coding, and link budgets, atmospheric effects, pointing, acquisition, and tracking (PAT) systems, etc. Demonstrated skills in leading projects. Excellent English communication skills, working level of German would be desirable.

Why Join Us?

Competitive salary and benefits package Shape next-gen laser communication technology with real-world impact Work in a deeptech startup backed by top-tier research and strategic partners Join an inspiring, international, mission-driven, agile team Flat hierarchies, real ownership, and the chance to grow with us A mix of lab, field, and flight testing -

no two days are the same

Who We Are

Cucuyo develops and manufactures laser communication systems for unmanned aircraft vehicles (UAVs and ground stations). We are a start-up located in Krailling near Munich. You will be part of a team of technical experts to build an exciting future for the company.

Interested? Then send us your application to

info@cucuyo.group

.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 7.000,00€ - 8.000,00€ per month

Ability to commute/relocate:

82152 Krailling: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)
Experience:

relevant professional: 7 years (Required) laser communication: 5 years (Required)
Language:

German (Preferred) English (Required)
Work Location: In person