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Avionics Engineer Jobs (UAV)

Engineers who design, develop, and test the electronic systems that control drones. A critical role in ensuring the reliability and performance of UAVs.

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Avionics Engineers in the drone industry are responsible for the design, development, and testing of the electronic systems that control unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). These systems include navigation, communication, and control mechanisms, which are essential for the safe and efficient operation of drones. Avionics Engineers work across a range of sectors, from defence and security to agriculture and aerial surveying, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to innovate and solve complex technical challenges.

What the role does

Inside the role of an Avionics Engineer

A typical week for an Avionics Engineer is split between design work, testing, and collaboration with other engineering teams.

  1. 01
    Design and simulate avionics systems using CAD software.
  2. 02
    Conduct tests on avionics components and systems.
  3. 03
    Collaborate with software and mechanical engineers on integration.
  4. 04
    Analyse test data and identify areas for improvement.
  5. 05
    Document findings and prepare reports for stakeholders.
  6. 06
    Attend project meetings and provide technical insights.
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for avionics engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Avionics Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in the design and testing of avionics systems, working under the guidance of more experienced engineers.

  2. Level 2

    Avionics Engineer

    2–5 yrs

    Take ownership of specific avionics projects, leading design and testing efforts, and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Avionics Engineer

    5–10 yrs

    Lead major avionics projects, manage a team of engineers, and provide technical direction and mentorship.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Avionics Engineer

    10+ yrs

    Oversee the entire avionics engineering function, drive strategic initiatives, and influence company-wide technical decisions.

Pathway

How to become a Avionics Engineer

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Gain foundational knowledge

    Start with a strong educational background in electrical or aerospace engineering, focusing on avionics and control systems.

  2. 2

    Build practical experience

    Gain hands-on experience through internships or entry-level roles, working on real-world avionics projects.

  3. 3

    Specialise in UAV systems

    Focus on UAV-specific avionics, learning about the unique challenges and technologies in the drone industry.

  4. 4

    Lead projects and teams

    Take on leadership roles, managing avionics projects and mentoring junior engineers.

  5. 5

    Influence strategic direction

    Contribute to the strategic planning and innovation of avionics systems, driving the company's technical vision.

  6. 6

    Advise and consult

    Becoming a recognised expert in the field, providing consultancy and advisory services to other organisations.

Live jobs

4 live roles

Avionics Engineer

The Avionics Engineer will lead the avionics engineering lifecycle, manage a high-performance team, and ensure the delivery of multiple products in a fast-paced environment. Responsibilities include project scope management, design and development, risk mitigation, and compliance with legal and regulatory standards. The role involves significant technical expertise and the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects.

Jackie Kerr Recruitment Marlborough, Wiltshire, SN8 1LZ, United Kingdom £35,000 – £50,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent Flexible

Avionics Engineer

My client is a specialist in the design, development, test, evaluation and operational delivery of complex unscrewed systems.As the Avionics Engineer, you are responsible for the management and delivery of Avionics and Electrical Engineering in an ambitious design, development and...

Orion Electrotech Wiltshire, United Kingdom £55,000 – £70,000 pa
Vertical Aerospace logo

Senior Avionic Systems Engineer - CNS

Our MissionAt Vertical Aerospace, we are pioneering the way for electric aviation. The Valo, our eVTOL (electric, vertical, take-off and landing), 'zero emissions' aircraft will set a new safety standard for how we will navigate the sky.We won't realise our...

Vertical Aerospace Bristol, BS1 3BF, United Kingdom
Permanent
Vertical Aerospace logo

Avionic System Development & Test Engineer

Our MissionAt Vertical Aerospace, we are pioneering the way for electric aviation. The Valo, our eVTOL (electric, vertical, take-off and landing), 'zero emissions' aircraft will set a new safety standard for how we will navigate the sky.We won't realise our...

Vertical Aerospace Bristol, BS1 3BF, United Kingdom
Permanent
Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

The locations with the most live listings for this role today.

Bristol

Location
2 open
FAQs

Common questions

  • A degree in electrical, aerospace, or mechanical engineering is typically required, with a focus on avionics and control systems.

  • Key skills include strong technical knowledge in electronics and control systems, proficiency in CAD software, and excellent problem-solving abilities.

  • Industries such as defence, aerospace, agriculture, and aerial surveying are major employers of Avionics Engineers.

  • Avionics Engineers often work in a combination of office, laboratory, and field settings, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

  • Salary ranges can vary widely based on experience and location. For more detailed information, refer to the salary section on this page.

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