Lead Flight Test Engineer in Cardigan

Are you ready to revolutionise the world with TEKEVER? At TEKEVER, we lead innovation in Europe as the European leader in unmanned technology, where cutting-edge advancements meet unparalleled innovation. We operate across four strategic areas, combining artificial intelligence, systems engineering, data science, and aerospace technology to tackle global challenges — from protecting people and critical infrastructure to exploring space. We offer a unique surveillance-as-a-service solution that delivers real-time intelligence, enhancing maritime safety and saving lives. Our products and services support strategic and operational decisions in the most demanding environments — whether at sea, on land, in space, or in cyberspace. Become part of a dynamic, multidisciplinary, and mission-driven team that is transforming maritime surveillance and redefining global safety standards. Our mission is to provide limitless support through mission-oriented game-changers, delivering the right information at the right time to empower critical decision-making. If you’re passionate about technology and eager to shape the future — TEKEVER is the place for you.

The Lead Flight Test Engineer (FTE) is a key technical authority within TEKEVER Ltd, responsible for the planning, coordination, conduct, and reporting of flight test activities across military and civilian Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS). This includes TEKEVER’s operational platforms and experimental or developmental systems. The role ensures that all flight test activities (whether for defence clients, civil demonstration campaigns, or regulatory compliance) are performed safely, effectively, and in accordance with MAA, CAA, EASA and other regulatory frameworks. The Lead FTE will critically assess system performance (air vehicle, mission systems, communications, and ground control elements) and ensure missions can be executed within regulatory, safety, and customer requirements. They serve as the primary interface between the Design Organisation, Operations, Regulators, and the Flight Test Organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Flight Test Planning & Compliance
  • Develop detailed Trials/Test Plans for both military and civilian registered UAS, ensuring compliance with:
  • MAA Regulatory Publications (MRP) for military T&E
  • CAA regulations, including CAP 722 series for UAS operations
  • EASA UAS and flight test requirements where applicable
  • Define Flight Test Instrumentation (FTI) requirements, including sensors, data links, and ground systems.
  • Lead airworthiness / regulatory engagement for test approval, including:
  • Military Flight Test Permits
  • CAA Operational Authorisations (OA), OSC content, or specific category risk assessments (SORA)
  • EASA test approvals where applicable
• Safety & Risk Management
  • Author trials Risk Assessments, Safety Statements, and Test Hazard Analyses.
  • Ensure risks associated with flight testing are ALARP and Tolerable, in line with MAA and CAA processes.
  • Coordinate with Range Safety, Air Traffic Services, and local airspace authorities.
• Test Conduct
  • Develop and deliver Flight Test Cards for T&E crews
  • Act as Trial Supervisor, Test Director or Test Conductor, operating from:
  • TEKEVER Ground Control Stations, or
  • Dedicated Telemetry (TM) Rooms
  • Lead real‑time monitoring of telemetry, system health, and test points.
  • Coordinate with T&E crews, operators, telemetry engineers, safety observers, and regulatory representatives.
• Data Analysis & Reporting
  • Analyse live and post‑flight data to evaluate:
  • Air vehicle performance and handling qualities
  • Autonomy, navigation, and control systems
  • Datalinks, command & control performance, and payload behaviour
  • Produce professional, standards‑compliant Flight Test Reports (FTR) and Trials Reports.
  • Present results to internal stakeholders, design teams, and external customers (MoD, regulatory bodies, industry partners).
• Programme Support & Development
  • Support rapid prototyping, spiral, iterative development, system integration, and emerging capabilities.
  • Interface with TEKEVER’s engineering, operations, and customer teams to drive continuous improvement.
  • Engage in both UK and international test campaigns as required.

Essential Qualifications & Experience

• ETPS UAS Systems Course Graduate or equivalent qualification.
• Demonstrated experience in flight testing military and/or civilian UAS, or equivalent aerospace systems.
• Strong understanding of UAS system architecture and mission level performance.
• Familiarity with:
• MAA RA 2370 Issue 5 and NPA 26/01 – Test & Evaluation requirements
• CAA UAS frameworks (e.g., CAP 722, OSC development, SORA)
• Proficiency with flight test instrumentation, telemetry systems, and data analysis tools (MATLAB, Python, or mission analysis software).
• Working knowledge of airworthiness, safety cases, and regulatory compliance.
• Strong communication, technical writing, and stakeholder coordination skills.

Desirable

• Bachelor's degree (minimum) in Aerospace, Mechanical, Systems Engineering, or related discipline.
• Class A or B TP or FTE graduate of a Test Pilot School (TPS), or equivalent modular training.
• Minimum Flyer ID & A1/A3 CAA drone license
• Hands‑on experience with:
• Military UAS flight test programmes
• Civil UAS in the open and specific categories
• Experience working with:
• UK MoD, DE&S, front‑line commands
• Civil aviation authorities and regulatory bodies
• Experience operating in deployed, maritime, or exercise environments.

Working Conditions

• Work at TEKEVER UK facilities (including West Wales Airport, Yatesbury, Wroughton) military airfields, civil test ranges, and customer locations.
• Travel required approx 25% of the time for remote campaigns, demonstrations and regulatory meetings.
• Occasional overseas deployments to support TEKEVER’s global operational footprint.
• Early mornings, late nights and occasional weekend work to support Flight Trials.