Engineer II (Autopilot)

ideaForge; Bengaluru; On-site; INR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Job summary

ideaForge seeks an Avionics & Flight Controls Team Lead to spearhead the design and integration of cutting-edge avionics systems for drones in Bengaluru, Karnataka. With a focus on ensuring compliance with FAA/EASA regulations, this role requires a Master’s degree and substantial experience in embedded systems and avionics. The ideal candidate collaborates across teams to implement advanced technologies that drive our drone programs successfully.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in avionics or flight control systems.
• Proficiency in embedded programming and control theory.
• Experience with system testing and validation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of complex avionics systems.
• Integrate and calibrate sensors for UAVs.
• Ensure compliance with aerospace regulations.

Skills

Embedded systems

Control theory

C/C++ programming

Python programming

Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS)

MATLAB and Simulink

Sensor fusion algorithms

Flight mechanics

Education

Master’s degree in relevant field

PhD in controls (desirable)

Tools

Hardware communication protocols (SPI, I2C, UART, CAN)

Open-source autopilots (ArduPilot or PX4)

Job description

As the Avionics & Flight Controls Team Lead, you will play a critical role in leading a team of talented engineers responsible for the design, development, and integration of avionics and flight control systems. You will collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams, including electrical engineering, software development, and aerodynamics, to ensure the successful implementation of advanced avionics technologies. Your expertise in avionics design, flight controls, and your leadership skills will be instrumental in driving the success of our drone programs.

Job Description

• Responsible for designing, developing, configuring and testing Autopilot (autonomous control) systems for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles.
• Create Technical specifications for new features/systems.
• Design and implement Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) algorithms, including trajectory planning and flight control systems.
• Integrating and application of the complex hardware and software, developing algorithms for guidance, navigation and control and ensuring the safety and reliability of the Autopilot system.
• Integrate and test control algorithms in Hardware‑In‑the‑Loop (HIL) and Software‑In‑the‑Loop (SIL) environments.
• Integrate and calibrate various sensors, such as GPS, IMU, LiDAR, and cameras.
• Perform real‑time data analysis from telemetry and conduct ground and flight tests to validate system performance and stability.
• Support the qualification and certification of products.
• Person willing to work in both the R & D centre and manufacturing plant (only during testing and validation process).

Professional Competencies and Requirements

• Candidates must be proficient in embedded systems, control theory, and data analysis.
• Control Theory: Solid understanding of classical and modern control systems theory.
• Programming Languages: Proficiency in C/C++ and Python. Experience with embedded systems programming is often required.
• Operating Systems and Middleware: Experience with Real‑Time Operating System (RTOS).
• Autopilot Software Stacks: Hands‑on experience with open‑source autopilots like ArduPilot or PX4.
• Simulation Tools: Strong proficiency in MATLAB and Simulink.
• Hardware and Communication: Familiarity with hardware protocols (e.g., SPI, I2C, UART, CAN) and experience with hardware debuggers.
• Navigation and Perception: Knowledge of sensor fusion algorithms (e.g., Kalman filtering) and concepts like AHRS and INS.
• Specialization on Avionics, Embedded Systems, Control systems, Flight mechanics, Autopilot on both fixed‑wing and quadcopters.
• System Testing and Validation: Develop and execute comprehensive test plans to validate avionics and flight control system functionality, performance, and reliability, including integration testing, flight testing, and Failure Mode Effective Analysis (FMEA).
• Documentation and Reporting: Prepare comprehensive technical documentation, including system specifications, test reports, and design reviews, and effectively communicate progress, challenges, and recommendations to internal stakeholders and customers.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure avionics and flight control systems comply with aerospace regulations, such as FAA / EASA standards, and participate in the certification process as required.

Educational Background

• Master’s degree in electrical engineering, Electronics Engineering, Avionics, Automation Technology, Aerospace / Aeronautical, or a related field.
• PhD in controls is desirable.

Work Experience

Minimum 10 Years Of Experience Required In Relevant Field.

Personal Competencies and Requirements

• Capable of making fast decisions and taking responsibility for results in a dynamic and changing environment.
• Oriented towards achieving goals and results.
• Focused on adding value for internal and/or external clients.
• Team player, able to work in a multicultural working environment.
• Creative thinker with a continuous improvement attitude.
• Flexible, adaptable, and open to change, with a willingness to acquire new knowledge and skills.

Locations

Novel MSR Building, Subbaiah Reddy Colony, Marathahalli Village, Marathahalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560037

Road No7, Hi-Tech Defense Aerospace Park, Plot No 28, Hardware Park, KIADB Industrial Area, Mahadeva Kodigehalli, Manchappanahosahalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka 562149