Ardupilot Engineer

FBI &TMT; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Cutting-edge projects in Defence-Tech

Training and development opportunities

Collaborative engineering environment

Impactful, real-world applications

Job summary

FBI &TMT is seeking an Ardupilot Engineer to join a fast-moving Defence-Tech startup in the UK. You will own autopilot software across platforms, write embedded C++ for flight controllers, and tune control loops using real flight data.

Key tasks include SITL development, test planning, and hands-on flight testing to demonstrate robust, safe UAV performance in defence applications. Collaboration and rapid iteration are essential in this early-stage team.

Qualifications

• Experience with Ardupilot, PX4 or similar open-source autopilot stacks.
• Strong C++ for embedded flight controller software and reviews.
• Familiarity with UAV tuning, flight testing, and log analysis.
• Knowledge of UAV communication protocols (CAN, SPI, I2C, UART, UDP, TCP).
• Ability to take a design from concept to tested, working implementation.

Responsibilities

• Own the autopilot software stack for multiple platforms and drive improvements.
• Write high-quality C++ code for embedded flight controllers.
• Tune PID loops and control systems using flight data and simulations.
• Develop and maintain SITL environments for code validation.
• Define and execute software test plans across bench, SITL, ground, and flight.
• Document software requirements and design decisions; support knowledge transfer.
• Engage in peer reviews and contribute to engineering standards.
• Participate in flight testing sessions to verify real-world performance.

Skills

ArduPilot

PX4

MAVLink

C++

Embedded systems

Flight testing

Log analysis

Safety-critical

Education

BSc or MSc in Engineering or related

Job description

Our client, a young and fast-moving Defence-Tech startup operating at the cutting edge of innovation, is seeking an Ardupilot Engineer to join their dynamic team. Specialising in building, fielding, and operationalising UAS/Drone systems, our client's mission is to develop highly impactful solutions for the Defence and Security sector.

Key Responsibilities:

• Own the autopilot software stack for multiple platforms, leading improvements and troubleshooting issues.
• Write high-quality C++ code for embedded flight controllers, ensuring correctness and functionality.
• Tune PID loops and control systems based on real flight data and simulations.
• Develop and maintain SITL environments for code validation.
• Define and execute software test plans across bench, SITL, ground, and flight environments.
• Document software requirements and design decisions to ensure seamless knowledge transfer.
• Engage in peer reviews and contribute to internal engineering standards.
• Participate in flight testing sessions to ensure real-world performance.

Job Requirements:

• Proven hands-on experience with Ardupilot, PX4, or similar open-source autopilot stacks.
• Strong working knowledge of MAVLink, mission planning tools, and UAV communication protocols.
• Practical experience with UAV tuning, flight testing, and log analysis using Mission Planner or equivalent tools.
• Excellent proficiency in C++ for reading, writing, and reviewing code.
• Familiarity with embedded communication protocols: CAN, SPI, I2C, UART, UDP, and TCP.
• Experience in taking a design from concept through to tested, working implementation.
• Ability to work independently and make sound engineering decisions in a fast-paced R&D environment.

Desirable Skills/Experience:

• Familiarity with Linux environments and Ardupilot SITL workflows.
• Experience with scripting languages like LUA, Python, or Rust.
• Background in aeronautics, control systems, or aerospace engineering.
• Knowledge of PID control loops, filters, and flight dynamics.
• Familiarity with safety-critical or defence software engineering standards.
• Experience working in an Agile development environment.
• BSc or MSc in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
• General enthusiasm for aviation and unmanned systems.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge Defence-Tech projects.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Involvement in projects with real-world impact.

If you are an experienced Ardupilot Engineer looking for a chance to make a tangible impact within the Defence and Security sector, we would love to hear from you.

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