Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer

Destinus; Hengelo; On-site; EUR 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Destinus is seeking a Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer to shape data acquisition for real flight campaigns on unmanned aerial platforms. You will work closely with flight test and engineering teams to design and implement robust instrumentation systems, including hardware and software integration, telemetry, and ground stations.

The role requires a strong aerospace background, a Master’s degree in a related field, and hands-on experience with flight hardware in demanding test environments.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• Strong understanding of data acquisition systems, telemetry systems, and sensor technologies.
• Experience integrating and validating instrumentation hardware and software.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with engineering and flight test teams to define data acquisition requirements for flight campaigns.
• Design and develop flight test instrumentation systems including hardware, software, telemetry architecture, and sensor integration.
• Define and implement telemetry systems and ground stations for real-time flight data.
• Install, calibrate, validate, and maintain instrumentation on unmanned aerial platforms.
• Ensure accurate, high-quality data acquisition during flight testing.
• Support flight test operations on site and troubleshoot instrumentation issues in fast-paced environments.
• Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to improve testing capabilities and data reliability.
• Contribute to scalable and efficient instrumentation processes for future programs.

Skills

Flight Test Instrumentation

Aerospace experience

Data acquisition

Telemetry systems

Sensor integration

Education

Master's in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

Telemetry software

Instrumentation tools

Job description

About the role

Imagine this. You are the reason every critical flight test delivers the data that pushes aerospace technology forward. From telemetry systems to sensor integration, your work will directly shape the performance, reliability, and evolution of next generation unmanned flight systems. This is not a role where you sit on the sidelines watching innovation happen. You will be in the middle of the action, building the systems that allow engineers to understand, validate, and improve cutting edge aerospace technology in real flight conditions.

At Destinus, we are revolutionizing the defense industry with cutting-edge Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Our innovative technologies are designed to meet the unique demands of modern defense operations, delivering unparalleled speed, precision, and cost effectiveness. Destinus partners with government agencies and defense organizations worldwide to provide advanced solutions for mission‑critical operations, enabling a new era of efficiency and technological superiority. Join us in shaping the future of defense with groundbreaking aerospace innovations.

What You´ll Do

• Work closely with engineering and flight test teams to identify and define data acquisition requirements for flight campaigns
• Design and develop complete flight test instrumentation systems including hardware, software, telemetry architecture, and sensor integration
• Define and implement telemetry systems and ground stations capable of delivering reliable real time flight data
• Install, calibrate, validate, and maintain instrumentation systems on unmanned aerial platforms
• Ensure accurate, high quality data acquisition during flight testing activities
• Support flight test operations on site and troubleshoot instrumentation issues in fast paced environments
• Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to continuously improve testing capabilities and data reliability
• Contribute to the development of scalable and efficient instrumentation processes for future programs

What You’ll Need

• Relevant experience as a Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer or in a similar instrumentation role within aerospace environments
• Aerospace background is mandatory
• Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field
• Strong understanding of data acquisition systems, telemetry systems, and sensor technologies
• Experience integrating and validating instrumentation hardware and software
• Ability to work hands on with flight hardware in demanding test environments
• Strong communication and organisational skills with the ability to collaborate across technical teams
• Willingness to travel internationally to support flight test activities
• Experience working with unmanned systems is highly valued

Who You Are

You thrive in fast moving environments where technology evolves quickly and every test matters. When others see technical complexity, you see an opportunity to build smarter and more reliable solutions. You combine analytical thinking with a hands on mindset and enjoy working both in the lab and directly on the flight line. You take ownership of challenges, stay calm under pressure, and understand the importance of precision, reliability, and teamwork in aerospace development. Curious by nature, you are motivated by innovation and excited by the opportunity to contribute to the future of autonomous flight systems.