Lead UAV / UAS Development Engineer
Location: Fort Worth, TX
Employment Type: Full-time, On-site (9/80 schedule – every other Friday off)
Compensation: $150K–$200K base + performance bonus
Clearance Requirement: Must be a U.S. Citizen (due to government contracts); eligible for SECRET clearance
Travel: Minimal
Relocation Assistance: Available

About the Role

Join a cutting-edge aerospace organization known for innovating VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) technologies. This role focuses on the hands-on design, development, and testing of a next-generation VTOL Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) intended for U.S. government use, with future commercial applications in the 300–600 lb TOGW class.

Key Responsibilities

Contribute to the design, assembly, and testing of VTOL unmanned aircraft systems
Support the development of mission systems, payload integration, and ground station interfaces
Work on the implementation of AI-based mission autonomy features within UAS platforms
Participate in the integration and evaluation of hardware and software components
Support system documentation and technical briefing materials
Collaborate with internal technical teams and external suppliers on subsystem integration

Required Qualifications

Strong technical background in VTOL and/or unmanned aircraft systems
Experience with aircraft systems design, integration, and flight test environments
Familiarity with UAS mission systems, avionics, autonomy, and supporting technologies
Excellent problem-solving and technical communication skills
U.S. Citizenship required

Preferred Qualifications

Hands-on experience with Group 2/3 UAS flight testing or prototyping
Exposure to AI-based autonomy or mission planning software
Understanding of low-cost, scalable, and sustainable aerospace design practices
Advanced degree in engineering or related technical field
Active or eligible for SECRET clearance

Lead Engineer, UAV / UAS Development