Aeronautical / UAV Engineer

Delian Alliance Industries; London; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A defense technology firm in London is seeking an Aeronautical/UAV Engineer to design and develop fixed-wing UAVs and support field operations. Ideal candidates will have experience with UAVs, strong CAD and CFD skills, and a background in aeronautical engineering. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge defense technology and requires a willingness to fly UAVs and ensure safety standards are met.

Qualifications

• Experience with UAVs or RC planes through work or personal projects.
• Ability to fly fixed-wing UAVs and obtain a license post-employment.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop fixed-wing UAVs from concept through production.
• Conduct aerodynamic analysis using CFD tools.
• Create 3D models and engineering drawings using CAD software.
• Integrate electrical systems and ensure compliance with safety standards.

Skills

UAV design and development

Aerodynamic analysis

CAD software proficiency

Electrical circuits knowledge

3D printing and CNC machining knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CFD tools

ArduPilot

Job description

About Delian

We live under a new world order. To protect Europe and its allies we're building a new defense prime. One tailored for the era of autonomous warfare.

While building for the future, our culture emulates the defense industry's roots: mass scale; operational excellence; execution speed; rapid technology adoption.

To strive for this we combine expertise in autonomy, electronic warfare and rapid manufacturing. Paired with young, passionate and mission driven engineering and technical talent.

We have offices in Athens & London.

About The Role

As an Aeronautical / UAV Engineer at Delian, you'll play a central role in helping us build the products redefining warfare. From concept to production. This will primarily involve building fixed-wing UAVs, but also supporting our field operations.

If you spent your childhood building RC planes or drones, this role is perfect for you.

This role is open to candidates in both Athens & London.

In this role you'll get to

• Design, develop, and optimize fixed-wing UAV, from concept through prototype to production.
• Perform aerodynamic analysis and optimization using CFD tools to improve lift, drag, and stability performance.
• Develop detailed 3D models and engineering drawings using CAD software (SolidWorks or equivalent).
• Integrate electrical circuits, avionics, sensors, and autopilot systems (ArduPilot/Pixhawk or equivalent).
• Apply knowledge of additive (3D printing, composites) and subtractive (CNC machining, milling, lathing) manufacturing methods for prototyping and production.
• Build, assemble, and test airframes and subsystems, ensuring airworthiness and performance against design goals.
• Conduct flight testing and data analysis, troubleshooting aerodynamic or systems issues.
• Drive the transition from prototype development to scalable production.
• Maintain compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards for UAV development and operations.
• Support field operations as a licensed UAV pilot with hands-on experience flying fixed-wing aircrafts.

Key requirements

• Past experience building UAVs or RC planes, for work or personal projects.
• Know how to fly fixed-wing UAVs (and willing to get a license after joining us).

You\'d ideally also have

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline.
• Strong background in aerodynamics, propulsion, and flight mechanics.
• Proficiency in CFD analysis and CAD modeling.
• Understanding of electrical circuits, power systems, and avionics integration.
• Hands-on experience with ArduPilot (tuning, mission planning, hardware integration).
• Knowledge of manufacturing methods (composite fabrication, 3D printing, CNC machining).
• Track record of building prototypes and advancing to production-ready designs.

Nice to have experience

• Experience in weight optimization, payload integration, and endurance improvement.
• Exposure to defense, aerospace, or UAV regulatory environments.
• Strong problem-solving, documentation, and teamwork skills.