The UAS Technical Lead is a key technical leadership role, responsible for the technical oversight, development, and integration of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) technologies within our defence weapon systems programs. This role requires a deep understanding of UAS platforms, autonomy, communication systems, sensor integration, and relevant regulatory frameworks. 

The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of leading technical teams, managing complex projects, and delivering innovative solutions within the aerospace or defence industry. A strong understanding of the ethical considerations surrounding the use of autonomous weapon systems in accordance with the Laws of Armed Conflict (LOAC) is crucial.

​​​​Technical Leadership

• Provide technical leadership and guidance to a team of engineers working on UAS-related projects.
• Define and maintain the technical roadmap for UAS development, aligning with business objectives and customer requirements.
• Lead the design, development, and testing of UAS components and systems, ensuring compliance with relevant standards and regulations (e.g., UK Military Aviation Authority / Civil Aviation Authority).
• Oversee the integration of UAS platforms with warheads, fusing systems, and command-and-control architectures.

Project Management

• Manage UAS-related projects, ensuring on-time and on-budget delivery.
• Develop project plans, including resource allocation, timelines, and risk assessments.
• Track project progress and report status to stakeholders.

Technical Expertise

• Maintain in-depth knowledge of UAS technologies, including platform design, autonomy, navigation, communication systems, and sensor integration.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies in the UAS domain.
• Provide technical expertise to support business development and proposal efforts.

Requirements Management

• Elicit, analyse, and document customer requirements for UAS solutions.
• Translate customer requirements into technical specifications and design documents.
• Ensure that UAS solutions meet or exceed customer expectations.

Collaboration

• Collaborate with other engineering teams, including software, hardware, and systems engineering, to ensure seamless integration of UAS technologies.
• Work closely with Mission Operations, Mission Delivery, Production, and wider cross functional  teams to support business objectives.
• Liaise with external partners, suppliers, and regulatory agencies

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and safety standards related to UAS operations.
• Develop and implement safety procedures for UAS testing and deployment.
• Contribute to the development of safety cases and risk assessments.
• Ethical Considerations
• Apply a strong understanding of the Laws of Armed Conflict (LOAC) to defence autonomous systems development and their deployment.
• Ensure that all UAS-related activities are conducted in accordance with ethical principles and guidelines for the use of weapon systems.

AI/ML & Computer Vision

• Lead the development and integration of Computer Vision and AI-based software solutions for PNT (Positioning, Navigation, and Timing) navigation and targeting, including object recognition classifiers.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical, or equivalent practical experience).
• Significant experience in UAS development, integration, or operations within the aerospace or defence industry.
• Proven experience in a technical leadership role, managing engineering teams and projects.
• Strong understanding of UAS platforms, autonomy, communication systems, and sensor integration.
• Experience working with weapon systems and a comprehensive understanding of their ethical implications and use in accordance with LOAC.
• Experience developing and integrating Computer Vision and AI-based software solutions for PNT navigation and targeting.
• Knowledge of relevant regulations and standards for UAS operations (e.g., UK MAA / CAA regulations).
• Experience with systems engineering principles and practices.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain UK Security Clearance to Security Check (SC) level