At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the technical direction of advanced autonomous UAV/eVTOL platforms in defence aerospace.
- Company: Join a rapidly growing company at the forefront of aerospace innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, bonuses, and comprehensive benefits package.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth in a dynamic, fast-paced R&D setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on next-gen autonomous aircraft in a high-stakes environment.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in UAV systems and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 105000 € per year.
We're looking for a Chief Engineer to lead the technical direction of advanced autonomous UAV/eVTOL platforms within a rapidly growing defence aerospace environment. This is a senior engineering leadership role focused on aircraft architecture, systems integration, and technical delivery across complex multidisciplinary programmes. You'll work closely with software, autonomy, avionics, flight test, and systems teams to drive the development of next-generation autonomous aircraft capability. The role combines strategic technical leadership with hands-on engineering involvement, supporting the delivery of operational flight-capable systems in demanding real-world environments.
Skills & Experience:
- Essential:
- Extensive experience developing UAV/UAS/eVTOL systems
- Strong background operating at Principal, Lead, or Chief Engineer level
- Deep understanding of aerospace systems integration and aircraft architecture
- Experience across avionics, systems engineering, autonomy, or flight controls
- Experience delivering autonomous or flight-capable systems into operational environments
- Strong multidisciplinary engineering background
- Comfortable operating in fast-paced R&D or advanced engineering environments
- Strong technical leadership and stakeholder engagement capability
- Desirable:
- PX4 or ArduPilot experience
- Background in GNC, mission systems, or autonomy
- Experience with flight test and validation activities
- Defence or military aerospace programme experience
- Knowledge of airworthiness or certification frameworks
- Existing UK security clearance or eligibility to obtain clearance
Additional Information:
- Hybrid working (UK-based)
- Senior technical leadership role
- High-impact position within advanced autonomous aerospace
- Salary £90k–£105k + bonus & benefits
Chief Engineer in Maidenhead employer: SR2 | Socially Responsible Recruitment | Certified B CorporationTM
As a leading employer in the defence aerospace sector, we offer an exceptional work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our hybrid working model allows for a balanced approach to work-life integration, while our commitment to employee growth ensures that you will have ample opportunities to advance your career in a cutting-edge field. Join us to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to developing next-generation autonomous aircraft capabilities in a supportive and forward-thinking culture.
Contact Detail:
SR2 | Socially Responsible Recruitment | Certified B CorporationTM Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Engineer in Maidenhead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the aerospace and defence sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and leadership skills. Think about real-world examples where you've led teams or delivered complex projects. We want you to showcase your experience with UAV systems and how you can drive innovation in this role.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to research the company! Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team. We love candidates who are passionate about what we do!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us that you’re proactive and serious about joining our team. Let’s get you on board to lead the future of autonomous aircraft!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Engineer in Maidenhead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your extensive experience with UAV/UAS/eVTOL systems. We want to see how your background aligns with the technical leadership and systems integration skills mentioned in the job description.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:In your application, emphasise your experience operating at a Principal, Lead, or Chief Engineer level. We’re looking for someone who can drive teams and projects forward, so don’t hold back on sharing your leadership successes!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Be sure to include any hands-on engineering involvement you’ve had, especially in fast-paced R&D environments. We love seeing candidates who can blend strategic thinking with practical skills, so make that clear in your application.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in advanced autonomous aerospace!
How to prepare for a job interview at SR2 | Socially Responsible Recruitment | Certified B CorporationTM
✨Know Your UAV Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid grasp of UAV/UAS/eVTOL systems. Brush up on your knowledge of aircraft architecture and systems integration, as these are crucial for the Chief Engineer role. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how they relate to the job.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role demands strong technical leadership, so prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading teams and driving projects. Think about times when you successfully engaged stakeholders or navigated complex engineering challenges.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Current Trends
Stay updated on the latest advancements in autonomous aircraft technology and defence aerospace. Being able to discuss current trends and how they might impact the company will show your passion and commitment to the field.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect in-depth technical questions related to avionics, systems engineering, and flight controls. Review your past experiences and be ready to explain your thought process and decision-making in complex scenarios.
