IONA is a pioneering climate tech start-up transforming last-mile logistics with its autonomous cargo drone network. With a commitment to innovation in UAV technology, we provide "as-a-service" solutions for logistics providers struggling with inefficiencies, particularly in rural and remote areas. Join a team that is reshaping logistics through sustainable, cutting-edge solutions.

Tasks

We are seeking a skilled and experienced GNC Engineer with expertise in designing, implementing, and tuning control systems specifically tailored to UAV applications.

This role is pivotal in developing, testing, and optimising the autonomous flight capabilities of our UAV platform. The ideal candidate will bring experience with ArduPilot and Pixhawk-powered flight control systems, possess hands-on tuning experience, and have a passion for UAV technology.

Key Responsibilities:

• Control System Design and Implementation

Develop, implement, and test advanced guidance, navigation, and control algorithms to enhance UAV stability and autonomy.

• Flight Controller Integration

Configure, optimize, and troubleshoot Pixhawk-based flight control systems, ensuring precise response and reliability across all flight modes, from VTOL to fixed-wing operations.

• UAV Tuning and Calibration

Conduct extensive tuning of UAV flight parameters, leveraging ArduPilot's Mission Planner tools to optimize performance for BVLOS missions and autonomous operations.

• Simulation and Analysis

Use simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink, and ArduPilot SITL) to validate control algorithms, conducting hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing to refine system accuracy.

• Documentation and Compliance

Develop and maintain technical documentation, including design specifications, flight test procedures, and compliance reports.

Requirements

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field.
• Strong proficiency in control system design and tuning for UAVs.
• Experience with ArduPilot, Pixhawk, or similar autopilot systems.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Simulink, and programming languages such as Python or C++ for control algorithm development.
• Demonstrated experience in simulation, HIL testing, and flight data analysis, with an understanding of continuous integration and version control.

Preferred Skills

• Hands-on experience with BVLOS UAV missions and Tilt-Rotor control systems.
• Knowledge of airspace regulations and experience with UAV certification processes.
• Familiarity with DevOps, CI/CD, and version control tools to streamline integration and testing workflows.

Benefits

• Equity Options: significant participation in the company’s equity scheme is available for the right candidate.
• Growth Opportunities: cross-functional learning and high growth potential within a dynamic start-up environment.

The selection process involves three stages:

1. An initial screening call to assess your suitability for the role.
2. An in-depth technical interview, during which you may be asked to prepare and present a case study that demonstrates your problem-solving skills, technical expertise, and documentation capabilities.
3. A final interview to finalise the hiring decision.

IONA is an innovative logistics provider utilising drone technology to address delivery challenges in rural and remote areas. Backed by an expert team with strong ties to renowned institutions such as Cranfield University, Carbon13 and The National Robotarium, the company is developing the first drone designed for the needs and regulations of rural deliveries.

The Sonnet Quad has a patented design and tilting rotor, making it four times more energy efficient than any alternative. This provides extended range, larger cargo capacity and lower costs. The solution increases margins from existing segments like medical deliveries and opens new ones such as day-to-day rural logistics. It reaches breakeven with only 200 residents in a community, i.e., ten times fewer than delivery vans require, and saves 500kg of CO2e emissions and £400 in purchasing power per year per person due to reduced car dependency and decarbonisation.