Sr. Engineer I - Flight Controls Systems

Who we are:

We are a start-up based out of Bengaluru & Delhi NCR. We are engaged in development of next generation missions and technologies (NGM&T) towards future warfare needs of the Indian defence forces. It is undertaking research towards enhancing persistence and autonomy for unmanned vehicles and robotic swarms. NRTs product development portfolio includes a solar power stratospheric high altitude pseudo satellite (HAPS) unmanned platform and an air/ground launched stand-off autonomous system.

Job Title: UAV Flight Dynamics & Control Engineer

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced UAV Flight Dynamics & Control Engineer to join our R&D team focused on developing advanced VTOL UAV platforms. The selected candidate will play a key role in designing, implementing, and validating flight control algorithms to ensure UAV stability, performance, and autonomy. This role demands strong expertise in UAV autopilot platforms such as Ardupilot , Embention Veronte , and other commercial flight control systems. You will work in a dynamic R&D setting and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver innovative UAV solutions.

Responsibilities:

• Design and develop flight dynamics models and control architectures for VTOL UAVs.
• Implement, simulate, and optimize control laws for stability, guidance, and navigation.
• Create and maintain mathematical models and simulations for accurate performance predictions.
• Develop and test flight control algorithms in SIL and HIL simulations in various autopilot systems.
• Integrate autopilot systems with onboard avionics, navigation, and mission management software.
• Perform simulation modelling using MATLAB/Simulink and validate with real-world flight test data.
• Analyse performance data from flight tests and iterate control logic to improve response and robustness.
• Collaborate with avionics, mechanical, and software teams for integrated system development.
• Ensure redundancy, safety, and fail-safe mechanisms are incorporated into flight control systems.
• Document control algorithms, system architecture, and validation reports.
• Stay updated on regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
• Drive innovation in autonomous flight systems, including sensor fusion, adaptive control, and fault-tolerant control techniques.

Experience / Skills:

• Hands-on experience with UAV flight testing and post-flight data analysis.
• Proficient in Ardupilot, Embention Veronte, and other autopilot ecosystems.
• Strong theoretical knowledge in Flight Mechanics, Control Theory, and Stability Analysis.
• Experience in control system development, tuning, and optimization for autonomous flight.
• Proficiency with MATLAB, Simulink, and flight simulation tools.
• Familiarity with communication protocols (CAN,UART,SPI,I2C, MAVLink) and embedded systems.
• Experience in trajectory optimization and non-linear, multi-objective optimization techniques.
• Understanding of sensor integration, including GPS, IMUs, air data sensors, and magnetometers.
• Capability to conduct independent feasibility assessments and system architecture reviews.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to system-level integration.
• High level of self-motivation and ownership in an agile R&D environment.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelors or Masters degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautics, or related field.
• Minimum 3+ years of experience in UAV control systems development and flight dynamics.

Team Skills:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work in a multi-disciplinary, distributed team environment.
• Demonstrated adaptability, critical thinking, and leadership capabilities.
• Commitment to timelines and project goals.