Role Overview
The UAV System Engineer – Fixed Wing will be responsible for the end-to-end design, integration, testing, and optimization of fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles. The role requires deep understanding of aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, and flight control systems specific to fixed-wing platforms.
Job Description
Design and define fixed-wing UAV architecture including airframe, propulsion, avionics, and payload integration.
Perform aerodynamic analysis, weight & balance calculations, and performance estimation (range, endurance, stall speed).
Configure and integrate flight controllers (Pixhawk / Cube / DJI).
Tune fixed-wing parameters (PID tuning, TECS, navigation tuning).
Integrate GPS, airspeed sensor, magnetometer, telemetry, and RC systems.
Integrate servos, control linkages, landing gear, and payload mounting.
Ensure EMI/EMC compliance and vibration isolation.
Support PCB design for power, sensor, or communication modules if required.
Select and size motors, propellers, ESCs, batteries for fixed-wing efficiency and endurance.
Perform power budgeting and energy optimization for long-range operations.
Design and validate power distribution and redundancy systems.
Plan and execute fixed-wing ground tests, taxi tests, and flight tests.
Conduct endurance, range, and failsafe testing.
Analyze flight logs and implement corrective actions.
Support compliance with DGCA and other aviation authorities (NPNT, UIN, Type Certification).
Prepare system documentation, flight manuals, and test reports.
Assist in manufacturing handover and field deployment.
Qualifications/Requirement:
Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electronics, Mechatronics, or related field.
2–5 years of hands-on experience in fixed-wing UAV systems.
Strong project or field testing experience is mandatory.
Strong experience with fixed-wing UAV platforms.
Deep understanding of aerodynamics and flight mechanics.
Experience with Ardupilot / PX4 fixed-wing configuration.
Knowledge of propulsion sizing and airframe integration.
Familiarity with tools like Mission Planner, QGroundControl.
Ability to analyze flight logs (Dataflash, MAVLink).
Experience with long-endurance or BVLOS fixed-wing drones.
Familiarity with DGCA certification processes.