Bristol is a hub for drone innovation, with a thriving ecosystem of tech companies and research institutions. Home to cutting-edge UAV development and a strong focus on aerial surveying and counter-drone technology.
Bristol stands out as a key location for the drone industry, boasting a diverse range of companies and research institutions. The city is home to both established firms and innovative startups, all contributing to advancements in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology. From drone piloting and engineering to aerial surveying and counter-drone solutions, Bristol offers a dynamic environment for professionals in the field. Many roles in Bristol are hybrid, allowing for a mix of on-site and remote work, while others require a more hands-on, on-site presence.
Based on advertised midpoints across the 3 UK listings priced in pounds in the last 12 months. Base salary only.
Copello
Develop, integrate and debug embedded software for UAV platforms, including autopilots, autonomy systems and payloads, using C++ and/or Rust on Linux. The role spans software architecture, automated testing and verification, and support for system integration and flight trials alongside international multidisciplinary teams.
Claude
Tekever
Joins a growing UK airworthiness team, initially focused on regulatory approval of a tactical uncrewed aircraft system for international customers and UK defence. Builds certification evidence, compliance matrices and SORA-based safety cases with design, systems and test engineers, later widening to other products and design organisation approval.
EASA Part 21 · UK CAA · MAA DAOS +1
Tekever
Acts as the on-site company representative coordinating UAS flight operations with customers and external agencies such as Border Force and Coast Guard. Tasks flight crews, runs daily and weekly briefings, books airspace, disseminates flight plans, and handles mission evidence and imagery feeds into the Joint Control Room.
Tekever Systems
Empresaria Group plc
Develops onboard software for uncrewed aerial systems, spanning autopilots, autonomy, payloads and mission-critical subsystems. Works on existing aircraft and clean-sheet designs, taking code from concept and SIL/HIL simulation through to real-world flight testing, with C++ and/or Rust in embedded and real-time environments.
PX4 · ArduPilot · MAVLink +6
Callen Lenz
Lead software project teams developing flight control and autopilot simulation software, using model-based design in MATLAB and Simulink. Responsibilities span flight dynamics modelling, flight performance studies, requirements definition, code and model review, and testing, while coaching team members and supporting project scoping and estimation.
MATLAB · Simulink
The most-listed roles in this cluster right now. Tap through to a role profile when one exists, or to the live search results.
Bristol's drone industry is supported by a robust network of companies and research institutions. Established firms and innovative startups alike are actively hiring, creating a wide range of opportunities for professionals at all levels.
The city's focus on aerial surveying and counter-drone technology makes it a particularly attractive location for those with specialised skills. Whether you're a seasoned engineer or a new pilot, Bristol offers a supportive and dynamic environment for career growth.
Common roles include drone pilots, engineers, software developers, and aerial surveyors. Counter-drone specialists are also in demand.
Many roles offer a hybrid model, combining on-site and remote work, while some, especially those involving fieldwork, require more on-site presence.
Industries such as construction, agriculture, environmental monitoring, and security frequently hire drone professionals in Bristol.
Qualifications vary, but common requirements include relevant degrees, drone piloting certifications, and experience with UAV technology.
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