Lead Engineer (Design Authority) in Bristol

Are you ready to revolutionise the world with TEKEVER? TEKEVER leads 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. At TEKEVER, 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.

Mission: We are looking for a Lead Engineer to act as the primary Design Authority for a high-priority Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) development program. This role requires an engineering leader who can balance innovative engineering practices and continuous capability development cycles with rigorous safety and compliance standards. You will hold ultimate responsibility for the technical integrity of the platform, ensuring the UAS is fit for purpose, safe to operate, and fully compliant with UK MoD requirements.

Responsibilities:

• Design Authority: Act as the final technical signatory for design changes, ensuring the platform maintains its design intent and safety margins throughout the development lifecycle.
• Systems Integration: Lead a multi-disciplinary team (Airframe, Avionics, Software, and Comms) to ensure seamless integration of mission systems and payloads.
• Airworthiness & Regulatory Compliance: Drive the strategy for airworthiness requirements (working toward MRP/RA standards), ensuring all documentation is robust and audit-ready.
• Technical Roadmap: Define the technical direction of the UAS program, managing complex trade-offs and evolving capability requirements.
• Requirements Management: Oversee the flow-down of high-level end user requirements into actionable engineering specifications.
• Stakeholder Interface: Serve as the lead technical liaison with the MoD, DE&S, and external partners, leading design reviews and safety committees.

Profile and Requirements:

• Experience: 12+ years in aerospace engineering, with a significant portion dedicated to UAS or complex military systems.
• Leadership: Proven track record as a Lead Engineer or Design Authority on a complex hardware-software integration project.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of UK Military Registered Aircraft (MRP) or Civil (CAA/EASA) certification frameworks.
• Education: Degree in Aerospace, Systems, or Electronic Engineering. Chartered Engineer (CEng) status is expected for this level of authority.
• Security Clearance: Must currently hold, or be eligible to obtain, UK SC (Secret) Clearance.
• Decision Making: The ability to make critical "go/no-go" technical decisions under pressure.
• High Integrity: A commitment to the highest standards of engineering ethics and safety-critical rigor.
• Strategic Communication: Capable of briefing senior military officers and technical experts alike, distilling complex engineering risks into clear operational impacts.
• Adaptability: A proactive desire to embrace new processes and drive continuous improvement in engineering methods.
• Agility: Comfortable leading in a fast-paced development environment where requirements and threats can evolve rapidly.

What we have to offer you: An excellent work environment and an opportunity to make a difference; Salary compatible with the level of proven experience.