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- Tasks: Lead the design and development of cutting-edge UAV systems from concept to flight testing.
- Company: Join a pioneering company at the forefront of autonomous aerial technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the exciting world of UAV technology and innovation.
- Qualifications: Hands-on experience in UAVs or robotics, with strong embedded systems knowledge.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with mentorship opportunities and career advancement.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
About this Position Our client is seeking a Lead UAV Engineer to own and drive the design, development and integration of autonomous aerial systems, taking platforms from concept and prototyping through to flight testing and deployment. This is a hands‑on technical leadership role spanning embedded hardware, firmware and robotics software, with a strong emphasis on safety‑relevant engineering, reliable real‑world operation, and leading delivery across the full system lifecycle.
Job Responsibilities
- Lead end‑to‑end UAV system development: architecture, build, integration, flight testing, iteration and deployment readiness.
- Own platform‑level technical decision‑making and trade‑offs across power, compute, sensing and communications.
- Lead development of flight‑critical subsystems, ensuring safety, reliability and robust operational performance.
- Build embedded solutions on MCUs, SBCs and Pixhawk/Cube‑class autopilots, setting standards for implementation and verification.
- Lead integration and validation of navigation and perception sensors (IMU, GNSS/INS, LiDAR/cameras, ADS‑B and radios).
- Develop, maintain and govern flight/robotics software stacks (ArduPilot/PX4/ROS2), including drivers as needed.
- Lead system‑level debugging across hardware, firmware and software; perform root‑cause analysis from flight/field issues and drive corrective actions through to closure.
- Produce and review clear interfaces, documentation and test procedures to support manufacturing, maintainability and scalability.
- Mentor and provide technical guidance to engineers, setting best practices for code quality, testing, version control and release discipline.
Experience Required
- Hands‑on experience in UAVs, robotics, autonomous systems or avionics engineering, with demonstrable ownership of delivered systems.
- Strong embedded systems knowledge (UART/SPI/I²C/CAN, real‑time constraints, power and reliability considerations), with the ability to lead design and review.
- Practical experience with ArduPilot and/or PX4 on Pixhawk/Cube Pilot‑class hardware.
- Working experience with ROS/ROS2 and Linux‑based development; Git version control.
- Proven sensor integration and validation (IMU, GNSS/INS, LiDAR and/or cameras; plus ADS‑B/telemetry preferred).
- Demonstrable ability to take a prototype to flight/field‑ready, including robust troubleshooting in real environments and driving engineering rigour under time pressure.
- Confident technical documentation skills; exposure to rapid prototyping (3D printing and basic electronics/PCB workflows) beneficial.
Lead UAV Engineer in Shaftesbury employer: Hernshead Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Hernshead Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead UAV Engineer in Shaftesbury
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the UAV and robotics fields. Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meetups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly to hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your projects, especially those related to UAVs and autonomous systems. Include detailed descriptions of your role, the technologies you used, and the impact of your work. This will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your embedded systems knowledge and UAV-specific technologies. Practice explaining complex concepts clearly and concisely. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to get comfortable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. So, get your application in and let’s get you that Lead UAV Engineer role!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead UAV Engineer in Shaftesbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for UAVs: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for UAV technology shine through. We want to see how your experience aligns with our mission and how you can contribute to the exciting projects we have at StudySmarter.
Be Specific About Your Experience: Don’t just list your previous roles; dive into the details! Share specific examples of projects you've led or contributed to, especially those involving UAV systems, embedded hardware, or robotics software. This helps us understand your hands-on experience.
Highlight Your Problem-Solving Skills: We love engineers who can troubleshoot and think on their feet. In your application, mention instances where you’ve tackled complex issues in real-world environments, especially under pressure. This shows us you can handle the challenges we face.
Keep It Clear and Concise: While we appreciate detail, clarity is key! Make sure your application is well-structured and easy to read. Use bullet points if necessary, and don’t forget to proofread. A polished application reflects your professionalism and attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hernshead Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your UAV Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UAV systems, especially the specific technologies mentioned in the job description like ArduPilot, PX4, and sensor integration. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience and any projects you've led that relate to these areas.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves technical leadership, prepare examples of how you've mentored others or led a team through a project. Highlight your decision-making process and how you handle trade-offs in design and implementation.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to dive deep into technical discussions about embedded systems, flight-critical subsystems, and debugging processes. Brush up on your knowledge of real-time constraints and be ready to explain how you've tackled challenges in past projects.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice explaining complex concepts in a straightforward way. Since you'll need to produce clear documentation and interfaces, demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively during the interview will be key. Think about how you can convey your ideas simply and concisely.
