UAS Engineer

Cubiq Recruitment
4 days ago
Create job alert

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

Related Jobs

View all jobs

Autonomous Systems Engineer

Technical Operations Engineer

Lead Safety Engineer

Industrial Placement Systems Engineer

Get the latest insights and jobs direct. Sign up for our newsletter.

By subscribing you agree to our privacy policy and terms of service.

Industry Insights

Discover insightful articles, industry insights, expert tips, and curated resources.

Tips for Staying Inspired: How Space Professionals Fuel Creativity and Innovation

The space industry captures our collective imagination like few others—sending probes to distant planets, launching constellations of satellites for global connectivity, even exploring the possibility of human settlements beyond Earth. From propulsion engineers and satellite architects to astrophysicists and mission control specialists, the field is a fusion of cutting-edge technology and grand ambitions. Yet, in this demanding arena, rife with rigorous testing, tight budgets, risk mitigation, and lengthy research cycles, even the most fervent space professionals can find their creative fire dwindling at times. How do people working in space—whether at government agencies, private aerospace firms, or research institutions—maintain a spark of innovation amid technical complexities, funding pressures, and enormous stakes? Below, we explore ten practical strategies to keep you inspired, inventive, and energised. Whether you’re building propulsion systems, planning satellite missions, or leading new explorations of lunar resources, these tips can help you break out of ruts, generate fresh perspectives, and push boundaries that define the future of humanity’s journey among the stars.

Top 10 Space Career Myths Debunked: Key Facts for Aspiring Professionals

The space industry has surged well beyond the era of government-led missions and iconic moon landings. Today, a diverse ecosystem of private companies, public agencies, and research institutions drives innovation in satellite technology, launch services, microgravity research, human spaceflight, planetary exploration, and more. With emerging trends like space tourism, in-orbit servicing, and interplanetary missions, there’s never been a more exciting time to pursue a career in this far-reaching field. Yet, myths about space careers still linger—from the idea that you must be a former fighter pilot to get involved, to the assumption that space jobs exist only for rocket scientists at a handful of major agencies. At ukspacejobs.co.uk, we see how these misconceptions can limit people’s aspirations in a domain that truly spans engineering, science, business, and beyond. In this article, we debunk the top 10 myths surrounding space careers—illuminating the reality of an industry that’s growing, diversifying, and actively seeking new talent. Whether you’re a student passionate about astronomy, a software developer intrigued by satellite systems, or a professional ready to pivot into space technologies, read on to see how the cosmos might be your next frontier.

Global vs. Local: Comparing the UK Space Job Market to International Landscapes

How to evaluate opportunities, salaries, and work culture in space technology across the UK, the US, Europe, and Asia The space industry is booming, no longer dominated solely by government agencies and massive aerospace contractors. Over the last decade, new players—both established corporations and agile startups—have propelled advances in satellite constellations, launch vehicles, in-orbit services, and deep-space exploration. From broadband satellites improving global internet access to small launch systems delivering cubesats into low Earth orbit, the commercialisation of space is rapidly accelerating. In this article, we’ll explore how the UK space job market compares with other leading hubs, notably the United States, continental Europe, and parts of Asia. We will delve into the range of in-demand roles, expected salary levels, and cultural and regulatory factors that influence careers in space technology. Whether you’re a rocket propulsion engineer, a satellite data scientist, or a business professional looking to help commercialise new orbital services, this guide will clarify your options and steer you toward a fulfilling path. By the end, you’ll see how the UK stacks up internationally for space-sector prospects—and what to keep in mind if you’re pondering a move overseas or transitioning into the industry for the first time.