Lead UAV Systems Engineer

JR United Kingdom; Fareham; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UAV technology company located in Fareham, UK, is seeking a seasoned UAV specialist to lead the design and integration of advanced unmanned aerial platforms for maritime applications. This role involves defining the technical roadmap, overseeing engineering design, and mentoring junior engineers. The ideal candidate will have a degree in a relevant STEM field and at least 4 years of experience in UAV development, along with proficiency in C++ and expertise in autopilot systems.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years’ experience in UAV design and development, ideally in R&D or fast-paced technical setting.
• Proven track record in building and integrating custom UAV platforms.
• Expertise with autopilot systems and flight control tuning.

Responsibilities

• Define and drive the technical roadmap for bespoke UAV systems.
• Oversee rapid prototyping and engineering design for UAV platforms.
• Lead sensor payload integration and flight control configuration.

Skills

UAV design

Technical leadership

Problem-solving

Mentoring

Education

Degree in Mechanical, Mechatronic, Aerospace, Systems Engineering, Robotics or related STEM discipline

Tools

C++

Python

Autopilot systems (e.g., Ardupilot, PX4, INAV)

Job description

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We are seeking a seasoned UAV specialist to lead the design, integration, and testing of advanced unmanned aerial platforms for maritime applications. This is a hands-on leadership role within a dynamic R&D environment, where you will shape system architecture, guide technical decisions, and deliver innovative solutions from concept to deployment. If you excel at solving complex engineering challenges and enjoy mentoring others, this position offers an exciting opportunity to make a real impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and drive the technical roadmap for bespoke UAV systems designed for maritime operations.
• Oversee rapid prototyping and detailed engineering design for UAV platforms and subsystems, ensuring robust design-for-manufacture principles.
• Take ownership of mechanical, electrical, and system-level design, balancing leadership with hands-on involvement in critical builds.
• Lead sensor payload integration, flight control configuration, and data pipeline development.
• Plan and execute rigorous testing programs, including lab validation and field trials, interpreting complex datasets to inform design improvements.
• Act as a technical authority and liaison between engineering teams and other business units such as trials, procurement, and manufacturing.
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior engineers, fostering best practices and innovation.
• Support occasional international travel for testing and partner collaboration.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Mechanical, Mechatronic, Aerospace, Systems Engineering, Robotics, or related STEM discipline.
• Minimum 4 years’ experience in UAV design and development, ideally within an R&D or fast-paced technical setting.
• Proven track record in building and integrating custom UAV platforms (fixed-wing and/or multirotor).
• Expertise with autopilot systems (e.g., Ardupilot, PX4, INAV) and flight control tuning.
• Proficiency in C++/C for flight-critical systems and/or Python for data processing and simulation.