Drone Head of Engineering and System Integration (UAV)

We are seeking a highly capable and hands-on Head of Engineering & Systems Integration

(HOD) to lead our end-to-end engineering function. This role requires deep technical expertise,

strong systems thinking, and proven leadership in building, integrating, and validating complex

UAV/robotics platforms.

The ideal candidate will drive architecture decisions, ensure seamless hardwaresoftware

integration, oversee platform development, and mentor the engineering team while aligning

R&D efforts with production and quality workflows.

Key Responsibilities

Own the end-to-end product lifecycle, from concept and prototyping through validation,

certification, and production readiness.

Design and implement modular, scalable system architectures applicable across

multiple drone platforms and use cases.

Lead the transition from R&D to manufacturing, ensuring readiness through

DFM/DFA principles, calibration strategies, test flows, and production validation.

Establish and maintain robust documentation standards, including SOPs, design

guidelines, checklists, and release documentation to support scale and compliance.

Drive cross-functional debugging and root-cause analysis across firmware, electronics,

and mechanical systems to ensure system-level reliability.

Collaborate closely with manufacturing, supply chain, quality, and operations teams to

enable smooth production ramp-up.

Introduce engineering best practices, continuously improve processes, and challenge

outdated assumptions to raise overall technical excellence.

Act as a technical authority and mentor, setting high engineering standards and

enabling knowledge sharing across teams.

Required Skills & Qualifications

Bachelors/Masters in Electronics, Aerospace, Mechatronics, Robotics, or related field

5+ years in UAVs, robotics, embedded systems, or system integration roles

Strong understanding of:

o Flight control concepts, firmware architectures

o Electronics design, sensor integration, power management

o Mechanical design review and structural fundamentals

Proven experience integrating hardware + software subsystems into full products

Strong debugging and validation skills for field deployment

Experience leading engineering teams or cross-functional projects

Preferred Experience

UAV platform development (micro to tactical class)

Knowledge of PX4/ArduPilot/MAVLink ecosystems

EMI/EMC compliance and testing

Production line setup for electronics or drone assembly

Familiarity with reliability testing, QA workflow, and post-sales issue resolution

Key Attributes

Strong systems thinker with a hands-on approach

Decision-maker with a bias toward rapid iteration and reliability

Excellent communication and inter-team collaboration skills

Ability to build teams, mentor engineers, and set high technical standards