UAS Systems Design Integration and Test Engineer

COLSA Corporation; Huntsville (AL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

COLSA Corporation in Huntsville, AL is seeking a UAS Systems Design, Integration and Test Engineer to lead hands-on design, fabrication, integration and testing of diverse UAS platforms.

This role requires DoD project experience, a Secret clearance, and proficiency with major autopilot suites and CAD tools. You will develop test plans, train military personnel, and oversee fleet readiness.

Join COLSA's culture and contribute to advanced unmanned systems in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in a related technical field.
• Minimum five years in UAS integration, testing and flight operations.
• Proficiency with autopilot suites: Piccolo/PCC, ArduPilot/Mission Planner, PX4/QGroundControl.
• CAD software expertise: SolidWorks or Autodesk Inventor.
• Experience assembling, integrating and maintaining Groups I–III UAS.

Responsibilities

• Lead operator and pilot for UAS flight operations.
• Lead integration, testing and debugging of avionics and data links.
• Fabricate and repair UAS airframes using composites and metals.
• Develop test plans for developmental flight research projects.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams from concept to deployment.

Skills

UAS operations

Leadership

Flight testing

System integration

DoD program experience

Education

Bachelor of Science in related technical field

Tools

SolidWorks

Autodesk Inventor

3D printing

CNC machining

Laser cutting

Job description

COLSA Corporation is hiring for a UAS Systems Design, Integration and Test Engineer position to join our growing UAS team. The UAS Systems Design, Integration and Test Engineer will serve as the engineering and technical specialist in a dynamic, fast-paced development environment. The engineer will lead and support the design, fabrication, integration, and testing of Groups I, II, and III multi-rotor, fixed-wing, and rotor-based/coaxial aircraft. Responsibilities include hands-on system assembly, payload integration, software configuration, developmental flight testing, and maintenance. This role requires a blend of technical expertise, operational flight proficiency, and leadership in supporting Department of Defense (DoD) projects.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Serves as lead operator and pilot for UAS flight operations, acting as both External Pilot (EP) and Internal Pilot (IP) for manual Acro/FPV and autonomous flight profiles.
• Leads the integration, testing, and troubleshooting of UAS avionics, payloads, data links, and ground control systems.
• Performs hands-on fabrication, modification, and repair of UAS airframes and components using composites, polymers, and metals.
• Utilizes CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Autodesk) and rapid prototyping equipment such as 3D printers, CNC machinery, and laser/water jet cutters to create and refine components.
• Develops, documents, and executes comprehensive test plans for developmental flight research projects, system modifications, and new payload evaluations.
• Coordinates with cross-functional teams to advance research and development initiatives from concept to operational deployment.
• Develops and delivers flight and maintenance training curricula for military customers, including DoD personnel.
• Manages and maintains a fleet of diverse UAS platforms, ensuring operational readiness and compliance with safety standards.
• Serves as a technical subject matter expert, providing guidance on UAS capabilities, limitations, and system architecture.

At COLSA, people are our most valuable resource and centered at our core value. We invite you to unite your talents with opportunity and be a part of our “Family of Professionals!” Learn about our employee-centric culture and benefits here: https://www.colsa.com/culture_benefits

Required Skills

Required Experience

• Bachelor of Science degree in Unmanned Systems, Aerospace Engineering, Aviation Technology, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of five years of professional experience in UAS integration, testing, and flight operations.
• Demonstrated proficiency with common autopilot suites, including Piccolo/PCC, ArduPilot/Mission Planner, and PX4/QGroundControl.
• Proficiency in machine CAD software, such as SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, or similar CAD software for mechanical design and analysis.
• Extensive experience with the assembly, integration, and maintenance of Groups I, II, and III UAS.
• Must have and maintain a SECRET security clearance; US Citizenship required;

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in leadership roles such as Crew Chief or Flight Development Lead.
• Experience developing and executing flight test plans for DoD or other government agencies.
• Experience with G-Code programming and operation of CNC equipment.
• FAA Private Pilot Certificate or FAA Part 107 certification
• Experience developing and delivering technical training programs to military personnel.

Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. COLSA Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.