Systems Integration & Validation Manager in Southampton

Job Title

Systems Integration & Validation Manager

Department

Testing

Right to work

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

About SkyBound

SkyBound delivers automated drone operations for critical national infrastructure, providing real-time aerial intelligence to support safety, security and faster decision-making.

We combine software, AI and remote operations, with systems managed from our Southampton-based 24/7 control centre and deployed across the UK in some of the most complex airspaces to enable rapid response and continuous site awareness.

As we continue to scale, we are looking for a driven Systems Integration and Validation manager to join the team and help shape the future of autonomous operations.

The Role

We're looking for a Systems Integration & Validation Manager to take ownership of our growing flight test capability. This is a hands‑on leadership role: you'll lead and develop a team of Test Engineers while staying close to the aircraft, the testing and the technology, making sure we test safely, test intelligently, and turn what we learn into better products and operations.

You’ll work across Engineering, Software, Operations and Product, helping us evaluate new aircraft, systems and autonomous capabilities as we scale. This isn't just managing a testing function - you'll help shape how SkyBound approaches system test and validation, build the capability of the team, and play a key role in bringing new technology into operation. In year one, expect the balance to lean toward hands‑on test leadership while you build out the team and processes around you.

What you'll be doing

Lead the team

• Lead, mentor and develop the Flight Test Engineering team
• Plan and prioritise the team's workload against wider business priorities
• Set clear standards around safety, quality and technical delivery
• Support recruitment, onboarding and development as the team grows
• Create a culture where people take ownership, challenge assumptions and continuously improve

Own flight testing

• Plan and lead safe, compliant flight test campaigns across a range of UAS platforms
• Support and conduct VLOS and BVLOS flight operations where required
• Define clear test objectives, success criteria and data requirements
• Lead pre‑flight preparation, risk assessments and readiness reviews
• Provide technical leadership during live trials and deployments
• Analyse results and turn test data into clear engineering and operational decisions

Build the test function

• Develop and improve test plans, procedures and SOPs
• Introduce consistent approaches to test planning, execution and reporting
• Identify opportunities to improve testing through automation, tooling and better processes
• Capture lessons learned and feed them back into Product, Software and Operations
• Help define the longer‑term strategy and capability of the Test function

Work across the business

• Work closely with Engineering, Software, Operations and Product to keep testing aligned with what we're building and where the business is going

What you'll need

• Significant experience in UAS, UAV, flight test or a closely related aerospace environment
• Experience testing new or developmental aircraft and systems
• Strong practical understanding of fixed‑wing, VTOL and/or multi rotor platforms
• Experience leading, mentoring or managing technical people
• Experience planning and executing structured flight test programmes
• A strong understanding of operational safety, risk management and aviation regulations
• The ability to troubleshoot technical issues and make sound decisions in the field
• Excellent communication skills, with the confidence to work across technical and non-technical stakeholders
• A hands‑on, practical approach and willingness to get involved when required
• Comfort working in a fast‑moving environment where the technology is still evolving and there isn't always an established playbook

Nice to have

• Experience operating in the UK CAA Specific Category
• Experience with autonomous UAS or advanced robotics
• Experience with ArduPilot, Mission Planner, QGroundControl or similar systems
• Fixed‑wing/VTOL piloting experience
• Formal flight test or Test & Evaluation experience
• Experience within defence, aerospace or another safety‑critical environment
• A degree in engineering, robotics or a related discipline

What matters to us

• Safety first: a strong safety mindset and the confidence to make the right call when conditions change
• Ownership: taking responsibility for outcomes, not just tasks
• Curiosity: enjoying learning, experimenting and figuring things out as the technology evolves
• Leadership: leading by example and developing the people around you
• Pragmatism: knowing when something needs to be perfect versus when it simply needs to work

Location & Travel

Primarily based at our Southampton HQ, with some UK travel to support flight testing and deployments. A full UK driving licence is required.

What we offer

• 23 days annual leave plus public holidays
• Free on‑site parking and EV charging points
• Industry‑relevant training and development, internal and external
• Flexible and casual working environment
• Health and wellbeing support, including a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
• Company sick pay
• Free tea, coffee and fruit