At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the procurement and management of cutting-edge uncrewed air systems for the UK.
- Company: Join a pivotal role in the Defence sector, shaping the future of uncrewed technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Dynamic role with significant visibility and influence across the Defence Industrial Enterprise.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of innovation in defence and inspire a team to achieve excellence.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and experience in project delivery within complex environments.
The predicted salary is between 81000 - 99000 £ per year.
The Head of Uncrewed Air Systems (UAS) is an exciting role with responsibility for procuring and sustaining the UK’s core suite of UAS to cost, time and performance, meeting safety and environmental protection standards and maintaining availability through life.
In this role you would provide strategic leadership of this full range of project delivery within National Armaments - Materiel, working in concert with the wider Air – Rotary Wing & UAS senior leadership team and being a key member of the senior uncrewed and autonomous community across the wider Defence Industrial Enterprise.
The Head of Uncrewed Air Systems carries out high profile work under significant Ministerial, Parliamentary, media and wider stakeholder scrutiny, requiring personal resilience and good senior stakeholder management.
Uncrewed and autonomous systems is a rapidly growing Defence field that is driving the evolution of procurement practices and regulatory requirements, and as a 1-Star Head you will play a pivotal role in promoting that culture by championing efficiency and pace whilst safeguarding essential rigour.
At its heart, this role is about people and as a member of the Air-RWUAS Senior Leadership Team you would have the responsibility to inspire people to achieve the NAD objectives to deliver for Defence.
Head of Uncrewed Air Systems employer: Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S)
At Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and family-friendly work environment that values diversity and innovation. With competitive benefits such as a market-leading pension contribution of 28.97%, flexible working arrangements, and ample opportunities for professional growth, our employees are empowered to thrive while contributing to the vital mission of safeguarding the UK through advanced defence programmes. Join us in Glasgow, where you can make a tangible impact on the future capabilities of the Royal Navy and enjoy a fulfilling career in a dynamic shipbuilding environment.
Contact Details:
Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Uncrewed Air Systems
✨Join Aerospace Forums and Groups
Get involved in aerospace engineering forums and online communities, like the AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics). It's a great way to meet industry peers and stay updated on job openings and trends in the field.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye on upcoming aerospace conferences and events where you can network with professionals and showcase your interest. Events like the Farnborough International Airshow are not just about flying machines; they're a goldmine for connections and potential job leads.
✨Spotlight Your Projects
Make sure to highlight any hands-on experience or projects on your portfolio that showcase your skills in aerospace engineering. Employers love seeing practical applications of theoretical knowledge. Show us what you've got!
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
When you find companies you want to work for, head straight to their careers page to apply for full-time roles, like the one with Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) for a Head of Uncrewed Air Systems. This often puts your application in front of the right people faster than just waiting for job boards!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Uncrewed Air Systems
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for the aerospace engineering role at Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), make sure to highlight your technical expertise. Include specific software skills, like CAD tools or simulation software, and any relevant engineering projects you’ve worked on. This is your chance to really shine and showcase your engineering toolkit!
Don't Skip Your Projects!:Include a section in your CV dedicated to projects that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities in aerospace engineering. Whether it's a university project, an internship, or personal work, we love seeing how you’ve applied your skills in real-world scenarios. Make it clear what your role was and the impact of the project.
Show Your Passion in Your Cover Letter:At Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), we're not just looking for skills – we want to know why you’re passionate about aerospace engineering. Use your cover letter to express what excites you about aviation technology and your career goals. Share any relevant experiences or inspirations that have led you to apply for this full-time position.
Tailor Your CV for Aerospace:Make sure your CV is specifically tailored to aerospace engineering. Focus on your education, any certifications, and your work experience, ensuring you highlight aspects that relate directly to the role. Don’t forget to mention any internships or apprenticeships that have given you hands-on experience.
How to prepare for a job interview at Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S)
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Aerospace engineering is all about technical precision, so make sure you’re comfortable with key concepts like aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials science. We recommend going through any relevant coursework or projects you’ve worked on – these real-world examples can illustrate your understanding during the interview with Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S).
✨Showcase Your Projects with Confidence
Make sure to have a portfolio ready that details any significant projects you've worked on, whether it’s a group assignment or a personal endeavour. Be prepared to discuss the challenges you faced, the tools you used, like CAD software, and what you learned from the experience, as this will show your problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Technical Interviews
Expect some technical questions or even problem-solving exercises during your interview with Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S). Get familiar with design challenges or theoretical problems related to aerospace; this can range from calculating lift and drag forces to materials selection under stress. Practising these can help you feel more at ease when faced with tricky questions.
✨Emphasise Your Passion and Teamwork Skills
As a full-time candidate, it’s crucial to convey your passion for aerospace engineering and your ability to work in teams. Highlight any group projects or internships you've done, focusing on how you collaborated with others to achieve a goal. Companies like Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) love seeing candidates who not only have technical skills but also fit well within their team culture.
