UAS Engineer

Job Title: Senior UAS Engineer

Location: Bristol (hybrid)

Type: Full-time - permanent

Company Overview:

This company began with the concept of an autonomous vessel docking system and has since evolved into a global tech solution provider. They protect millions of lives, critical infrastructure, and both military and civil assets worldwide. At the core of their systems is NiDAR Core - an IoT platform that fuses hybrid intelligence with top-tier sensors to deliver comprehensive situational awareness and surveillance, enhancing defense, security, and safety. The headquarters are in Monaco, with additional offices in London, Bristol, and Riyadh. They are rapidly expanding and are committed to fostering an environment that encourages creativity, continuous learning, and professional growth.

Position Overview:

This company is seeking a highly motivated Senior UAS Engineer to design, develop, and test novel unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for applications in safety, security, and defense.

Main Responsibilities:

• System Design & Development: Design and develop UAV platforms, including airframes, propulsion systems, avionics, and power management.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to develop robust UAS solutions aligned with our mission.
• Autonomy & AI Integration: Partner with AI/ML specialists to implement autonomous navigation, image processing, sensor fusion, and real-time decision-making capabilities.
• Hardware & Software Integration: Integrate and optimize autopilot systems, communications (e.g., Doodlelabs), sensors (GNSS, Visible/IR Cameras, radar, LiDAR), propulsion, and power train.
• Rapid Prototyping & Iteration: Work in an agile environment to develop and test new UAV technologies swiftly, embracing a 'fly, fail, learn' mindset to expedite product market entry.
• Flight Testing & Validation: Plan and conduct UAV flight trials, gather and analyze performance data, and refine system capabilities.
• Regulatory Compliance: Collaborate to ensure UAV systems meet aviation and safety standards (SORA as applied to CAA/MAA, EASA regulatory bodies).

Requirements:

• Degree (BEng, MEng, MSc, or PhD) in Aerospace Engineering, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related STEM field.
• 4+ years of experience in UAS development.
• Strong understanding of flight control systems, aerodynamics, propulsion, power train, and autonomy.
• Experience with autopilot firmware (preferably PX4, or the ability to quickly learn it based on Ardupilot experience).
• Proficiency in C/C++, Python, ROS2, and MATLAB/Simulink 'UAV Toolbox' and QGround Control for UAV control, simulation, and analysis.
• Experience in UAV system integration.
• Understanding of communication protocols (MAVLink, CAN, RF, 4G/5G).
• Hands-on experience with UAV hardware, including assembly and troubleshooting; comfortable using tools like a soldering iron when necessary.
• Ability to convey complex UAV engineering concepts clearly and effectively, whether in detailed technical reports or high-level briefings for senior stakeholders.
• Experience collaborating with industrial and academic partners, including setting requirements and managing their delivery.
• Ability to plan and conduct flight testing, including generating operations manuals and risk assessments.
• GVC Qualification or the ability to obtain it within 3 months with company sponsorship.
• Willingness to travel to local testing sites for day-to-day testing and to other locations, including abroad, for extended test campaigns and demonstrations (2-3 times per year); a driver's license is essential.

Desirable:

• Team leadership or people management experience.
• Experience developing novel or unique UAV systems beyond standard quadcopters.
• Broad experience across the development lifecycle, from concept (TRL 0) to production (TRL 9); direct experience taking a product from development to customer delivery is highly beneficial.
• Experience in the verification and validation of autonomous systems.
• Understanding of Guidance, Control, and Navigation (GCN) theory and applications.
• Ability to conduct aerodynamic simulations and understanding of CFD principles.
• Experience conducting customer demonstrations in support of sales campaigns.

What's On Offer:

• Hybrid Working:Enjoy the flexibility of a hybrid working environment, balancing on-site collaboration with remote work to suit your lifestyle.
• Relocation Package:For candidates considering relocation, we provide a comprehensive relocation package to ensure a smooth transition to Bristol.
• International Exposure:Benefit from opportunities to work abroad in our international offices located in Monaco and Riyadh, enhancing your global experience and professional growth.
• Great salary:Up to £80k per annum
• Pension package:6% pensions contribution

If you think you could be a good fit, and would like to hear more, apply directly to this ad, or send you CV to