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Drone Jobs in Southampton

Southampton is a hub for maritime and aerospace innovation, making it a prime location for drone technology and operations.

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Southampton, situated on the south coast of England, is a key centre for maritime and aerospace industries. This strategic location has attracted a range of companies and research institutions that are at the forefront of drone technology and unmanned aerial systems (UAS). From drone piloting and engineering to aerial surveying and counter-drone technology, the city offers a diverse array of opportunities for professionals in the drone sector. Many roles in Southampton involve close collaboration with maritime operations, making it a unique and dynamic environment for drone specialists.

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Latest jobs

Flarebright logo

Software Engineer

The Software Engineer will work on the complete development lifecycle of flight safety and navigation systems, from concept and algorithm design to system integration and testing. You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to deliver high-performance solutions, maintain high-quality code, and produce comprehensive documentation.

Flarebright Bicester, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom £39,000 – £49,000 pa
On-site Permanent Clearance Required

Mechanical Design Engineer

The Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for the design and development of advanced cargo drone systems, creating detailed CAD models and drawings, performing structural analyses, and supporting prototyping and testing. The role involves close collaboration with internal and external teams to ensure designs meet performance, robustness, and customer requirements.

Windracers Fareham, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent
ECM Selection logo

Senior RF Data Research Scientist

This role involves working on complex RF signal data for defence and security applications, specifically in the areas of ML modelling for RF signal characterisation and modification. You will lead applied RF engineering work, advance signal processing pipelines, and develop next-generation prototype technologies using Python, digital signal processing, and RF hardware.

ECM Selection Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom £60,000 – £90,000 pa
ECM Selection logo

Optical Engineer

This role involves designing and integrating optical systems, including lasers, lenses, and cameras, to protect critical infrastructure from threats like drone incursions. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team to take products from concept to production, leveraging both theoretical knowledge and practical engineering skills.

ECM Selection Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom £55,000 – £70,000 pa
ECM Selection logo

Senior Mechatronics Engineer

As a Senior Mechatronics Engineer, you will work on cutting-edge drone detection and tracking systems, combining optical systems and machine learning. Your responsibilities include mechanical design, prototyping, and PCB-level electronics design, with hands-on time in workshops and at customer sites.

ECM Selection Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom £90,000 – £130,000 pa
On-site Permanent Clearance Required
Autodiscovery logo

Senior Robotics Software Engineer

This role involves leading the design, development, and deployment of advanced robotic systems, focusing on software architecture, perception, planning, and control. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, mentor junior engineers, and evaluate emerging technologies to enhance system performance.

Autodiscovery Wantage, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent
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Roles further afield

A little outside Southampton, but within reach.

Lead Manufacturing Engineer

The Lead Manufacturing Engineer will develop and optimize manufacturing processes, tooling, and production methods for a large fixed-wing UAV platform. You'll collaborate with multiple engineering disciplines, production, supply chain, and quality teams to ensure efficient and high-quality production, while driving Design for Manufacture and Assembly principles.

Windracers Fareham, Hampshire, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Avionics Technician

The Avionics Technician will support the manufacturing and assembly of avionics components, including hands-on repair, testing, and installation of avionics systems on aircraft. The role involves both bench-based and on-site work, with opportunities to contribute to process improvements and support post-production flight operations.

Windracers Fareham, Hampshire, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent Clearance Required

Surveyor (Mechanical and Electrical)

This role involves evaluating the condition of mechanical and electrical installations across a military garrison, preparing survey reports, and identifying necessary improvements and lifecycle works. You will inspect assets, analyze data from various sources, and work collaboratively to ensure a safe and efficient service.

Thomas Search Tidworth, Wiltshire, SP9 7FY, United Kingdom £52,300 pa

Stress Engineer

The Stress Engineer will perform structural and vibration analysis on UAV airframes, working closely with the Airframe Lead and Senior Stress Engineer to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the systems. Responsibilities include FEA simulations, stress reporting, and collaborating with design and testing teams.

Windracers Fareham, Hampshire, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

CAD Technician

The CAD Technician will work within the Engineering team to create and maintain 3D models, engineering drawings, and Bills of Materials for a large fixed-wing UAV platform. You'll collaborate closely with Design, Manufacturing, and Systems Engineers to ensure design integrity and compliance with company standards.

Windracers Fareham, Hampshire, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Electronics CAD Technician

The role involves creating and maintaining electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and cable harness documentation using SolidWorks Electrical. The technician will work closely with engineers to produce accurate and controlled documentation for manufacturing, testing, and supporting reliable electrical assemblies.

Windracers Fareham, Hampshire, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

UAV/ Senior UAV Technician

This role involves hands-on assembly, systems installation, and testing of UAV airframes and components as part of a production line. The technician will work with engineering drawings, support flight operations, and maintain build documentation. Emphasis is placed on safety, process feedback, and cross-functional support during aircraft commissioning and testing.

Windracers Fareham, Hampshire, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Propulsion Lead

The Propulsion Lead will take technical ownership of the powerplant and propulsion systems for Windracers' fixed-wing logistics UAV platforms. Responsibilities include leading the design, development, and integration of propulsion systems, defining propulsion architecture, and managing relationships with suppliers and regulatory bodies. The role involves working closely with aircraft design, systems, manufacturing, and operations teams to ensure reliable and efficient propulsion solutions.

Windracers Fareham, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent
The scene

Hiring in Southampton

Southampton's strong maritime and aerospace presence has created a fertile ground for drone technology. Companies in these sectors often require drone specialists to enhance their operations, whether it's for environmental monitoring, surveying, or security. The city's proximity to the sea and its advanced research facilities make it an ideal location for professionals looking to specialise in maritime drone applications.

The local job market is diverse, with opportunities ranging from entry-level positions to senior roles. Many companies offer hybrid work models, allowing professionals to balance on-site fieldwork with remote data analysis and project management. This flexibility, combined with the city's vibrant tech community, makes Southampton an attractive location for drone professionals.

FAQs

Common questions

  • Common roles include drone pilots, engineers, data analysts, and UAS operators, often with a focus on maritime applications.

  • Many roles involve a mix of on-site and remote work, particularly for field operations and data analysis.

  • The maritime, aerospace, and environmental sectors are major employers of drone professionals in Southampton.

  • For detailed salary information, please refer to the salary section on this page, which is updated regularly with live job listings.

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