UK - UAV Engineer

Job Title: UAS Engineer Reports to: Head of Engineering Location: Bristol (hybrid) Type: Full time - permanent We are looking for a UAV Engineer to support the design, development, integration and flight testing of an advanced Interceptor UAV system. This is a broad, hands-on engineering role covering the air vehicle, propulsion, avionics, flight-control systems, sensors, communications and autonomy. The role will work closely with Systems, GNC, Software, Electronics and AI/ML engineers to rapidly develop, integrate and mature the Interceptor from prototype through to an operational product. Key Responsibilities ​Support the design and development of the UAV platform, including airframe, propulsion, power, avionics and flight-control systems. ​Integrate and troubleshoot autopilots, sensors, communications, payloads and mission-system hardware/software. ​Configure, develop and tune UAV flight-control systems, including PX4 or equivalent autopilot platforms. ​Support integration of GNC, autonomous behaviours and AI/ML-enabled perception onto the aircraft. ​Plan and conduct ground and flight testing, analysing results and using them to drive design improvements. Diagnose UAV system issues and implement practical hardware and software solutions. Support rapid prototyping and iterative development through a build–test–learn approach. Work with suppliers and engineering partners to define requirements and integrate third-party equipment. ​Support system verification, customer demonstrations and operational trials. ​Produce appropriate technical documentation, test plans, operating procedures and risk assessments. Support testing and customer demonstrations - travel required. Required Experience Degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electronic Engineering, Robotics or a related technical discipline. Practical experience developing and integrating UAVs or autonomous aerial systems. Good understanding of UAV flight controls, aerodynamics, propulsion, power systems and avionics. ​Experience with autopilot systems such as PX4 or ArduPilot. Experience integrating UAV hardware and software, including sensors and communications systems. Familiarity with C/C++, Python and/or MATLAB/Simulink. Understanding of communications and interfaces such as MAVLink, CAN and RF datalinks. Hands-on experience building, configuring, testing and troubleshooting UAV hardware. Experience planning and supporting UAV flight-test activities. Strong analytical, technical communication and problem-solving skills. Preferred Skills Experience developing novel UAV platforms, rather than solely operating commercial off-the-shelf systems. Experience across multiple stages of the development lifecycle, from prototype through to production or customer delivery. Understanding of GNC, autonomous systems and AI/ML-based perception. Experience with ROS/ROS2, QGroundControl or similar UAV development tools. Experience of SIL/HIL testing and modelling/simulation environments. Knowledge of UAV regulatory and safety requirements. ​Experience conducting customer demonstrations and trials. ​GVC qualification, or willingness to obtain one. ​Full driving licence and willingness to travel as needed. Attributes & Mindset Hands-on and proactive, comfortable moving between design, software, hardware and flight testing. Practical problem-solver who is comfortable working through unfamiliar technical challenges. Able to work at pace in an iterative R&D and product-development environment. Strong team player who works effectively across engineering disciplines. ​Adaptable and willing to take ownership beyond a narrowly defined technical area when required. ​Detail-focused while maintaining a strong emphasis on getting the UAV flying, learning and improving. Adaptable & Resilient: Stay calm and focused under pressure, maintaining a positive attitude that motivates others, adapting approach as challenges arise. Comfortable working with multiple engineering disciplines in a small tight-knit team. We believe in the value of working together in person and expect team members to be office-based for the majority of the working week. At the same time, we take a flexible pragmatic approach to working patterns, including start and finish times and remote working, to support a healthy work-life balance while meeting the needs of the team and project. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team where everyone is treated with respect and has the opportunity to contribute and succeed. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are focused on creating a working environment where different perspectives, experiences and ideas are valued.