Lead UxV Design Engineer

JR United Kingdom; Chichester; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company at the forefront of UAV development as a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer. In this exciting role, you will take charge of designing, integrating, and testing cutting-edge Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for prestigious clients across various sectors. You will lead a team of talented engineers, ensuring that our designs meet the highest standards of safety and performance. With opportunities for continuous professional development and a collaborative work environment, this position promises a dynamic and rewarding career path. If you're passionate about innovation in aerospace, this is the role for you!

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in UAVs or aerospace systems.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical design and stress analysis.

Responsibilities

• Design and manage UAV systems from concept to delivery.
• Lead a team of design engineers and collaborate with clients.

Skills

Mechanical Design Principles

Stress Analysis

CAD Software (Fusion 360, SolidWorks, CATIA, Pro/ENGINEER)

UAV Subsystems Knowledge

Problem-Solving Skills

Leadership Abilities

Attention to Detail

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master's Degree in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

Fusion 360

SolidWorks

CATIA

Pro/ENGINEER

Job description

Job Description: Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

ISS Aerospace designs, manufactures, builds, and delivers Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for international clients across defense, security, and energy sectors. We provide off-the-shelf UAVs and conduct R&D to meet specific client needs. Our systems gather and process information to deliver actionable intelligence or operate autonomously in challenging conditions. We pride ourselves on working closely with clients to provide comprehensive services from specification to operational deployment.

Why ISS Aerospace?

ISS is an established UK manufacturer with a strong market presence. As we scale our operations to meet growing demand, working here offers the opportunity to be at the forefront of UAS development, serving prestigious clients worldwide. We foster a team-oriented environment that encourages knowledge sharing, continuous professional development, and innovation, with no two days being the same.

The Role: Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

This role involves end-to-end responsibility for designing, manufacturing, integrating, testing, and delivering UAVs, whether as standalone platforms or part of larger R&D projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage ISS UAV designs, including updates and revisions
• Design bespoke mechanical modules or payloads
• Lead a team of design engineers as the company grows
• Collaborate with customers to understand and implement requirements during R&D and custom projects
• Translate design concepts into new UAV platforms, working directly with the CTO
• Apply best practices and improve existing design processes
• Develop test and analysis procedures for compliance and regulatory standards

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Electronic Engineering, or related fields
• Minimum 3 years' experience with UAVs or aerospace systems
• Strong knowledge of mechanical design principles, stress analysis, materials, and manufacturing
• Proficiency with CAD software (Fusion 360, SolidWorks, CATIA, Pro/ENGINEER)
• Experience with UAV subsystems such as propulsion, avionics, and control systems
• Understanding of UAV regulatory requirements
• Excellent communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences

Core Skills

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Experience designing UAV structures and subsystems
• Knowledge of FEA and simulation techniques
• Experience in UAV prototype development and testing
• Familiarity with additive and composite manufacturing
• Leadership and team management abilities
• Attention to detail to ensure safety, performance, and regulatory compliance

Additional tasks will be assigned as the role and company evolve. We welcome applicants with diverse skills and backgrounds.

Additional Requirements

• Understanding of the UAV industry
• Good interpersonal skills and team orientation
• Autonomy and logical problem-solving approach
• Commitment to continuous improvement

Salary

Dependent on experience and skillset.

Location

Based at ISS facilities in Chieveley, Berkshire. The site is accessible via good road links, near Reading, Swindon, and Oxford. Bristol and London are approximately 60 minutes away. Remote work is not available for this role.

Travel & Security

International travel may be required. Candidates must have a current passport and a full UK driving license. Evidence of identity, work eligibility, and employment history will be required. Some positions may require SC clearance.