ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGIST - SR. ENGR. TECHNOLOGIST - Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS)

Southwest Research Institute; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, TX seeks an Engineering Technologist specializing in Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) to join a multidisciplinary R&D team. The role focuses on design, integration, testing, and field operations to advance mission‑critical UAS solutions.

Responsibilities include payload integration, in-field testing, and developing documentation for validation and deployment while working with RF transmission and control links.

Qualifications

• Requires a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, or related engineering technology with UAS experience.
• FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot Certificate (FAA) required.
• Current and active security clearance is highly preferred.
• Willingness to operate in extreme weather and remote outdoor settings.
• A valid/clear driver's license is required.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement UAS-related systems, including payload and sensor integration.
• Perform in-field testing, data collection, and analysis to support validation and performance optimization.
• Demonstrate knowledge of RF-based systems, including transmitters, C2 links, and wireless architectures.
• Develop technical documentation such as user specifications and test plans.

Skills

UAS knowledge

Field testing

RF communications

Education

B.S. in Mechanical Engineering Technology

B.S. in Electrical Engineering Technology

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 Engineering Technologist 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 engineering concepts and principals to the implementation, 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.
• Conduct engineering studies specialization in key areas such as mission planning, UAS autonomy, and real‑time field deployment scenarios.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:

• Work as part of a team to design and implement specialized 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.
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of operating RF‑based systems, including transmitters, command‑and‑control links, and wireless communication architectures (e.g., cellular, SATCOM, mesh networks).
• Work as part of a team to develop technical documentation, such as user specifications, test plans, and standard operating procedures.

Requirements:

• Requires a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology or directly related engineering technology degree with UAS Systems related experience.
• Part 107 Drone Pilot Certificate (FAA) required.
• Current and active security clearance is highly preferred.
• 0 years: Knowledge and understanding of Uncrewed Aerial Systems with an interest in field validation and design review of physical airframes.
• 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