ENGINEER - RESEARCH ENGINEER - Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS)

Southwest Research Institute; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, TX seeks an Engineer in Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) to design, integrate, test, and operate UAS platforms for research and national security applications. You will work on payloads, sensors, autonomy, and real-time field deployment.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, FAA Part 107 certification, and willingness to deploy in challenging environments. Security clearance is preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering or related field.
• Part 107 Drone Pilot Certificate (FAA) required.
• Security clearance is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement specialized UAS solutions, including payload and sensor integration.
• Perform in-field testing, data collection, and analysis for validation and performance optimization.
• Develop technical documentation such as user specifications, test plans, and standard operating procedures.

Skills

UAS experience

Payload integration

Field deployment

Flight testing

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering or related field

Part 107 Drone Pilot Certificate (FAA)

Job description

Who We Are

Join an independent research and development (R&D) company where innovation meets national security solutions. We are seeking a skilled and motivated Engineer in Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS). This individual will contribute expertise in UAS design, integration, testing, and field operations, specializing in enabling cutting-edge solutions to mission-critical challenges.

Objectives of this Role

• Apply advanced technical knowledge to the implementation, design, testing, and integration of UAS systems across research and development initiatives.
• Support the development and integration of payloads, sensors, and autonomous platforms tailored to field operations and mission objectives.
• Work on multidisciplinary teams to tackle dynamic and complex challenges associated with diverse operating conditions.
• Provide technical specialization in key areas such as mission planning, embedded computing, UAS autonomy, and real-time field deployment scenarios.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities

• Design and implement specialized technological solutions for UAS-related systems, including payload and sensor integration.
• Perform in-field testing, data collection, and analysis to support system validation and performance optimization.
• Develop comprehensive technical documentation, such as user specifications, test plans, and standard operating procedures.

Requirements

• Requires a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or directly related engineering degree with related experience in UAS Systems.
• Part 107 Drone Pilot Certificate (FAA) required.
• Current and active security clearance is highly preferred.
• 0-5 years: Experience with UAS systems, emphasizing field deployment, payload integration, and compliance validation.
• Willingness to perform operations and testing in challenging environments, including extreme weather conditions and remote outdoor settings.
• A valid/clear driver's license is required.

Special Requirements

Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Applicant must be a U.S. citizen. Job Locations: San Antonio, Texas