Senior UAV Systems Engineer

Job Description

At Karman Drones , we’re building the next generation of unmanned aerial vehicles engineered for high-impact missions. We’re looking for a Senior UAV Systems Engineer who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about solving complex technical challenges across real-time, safety-critical systems. In this role, you’ll work at the intersection of control theory, embedded systems, and aerial vehicle integration—driving innovation across Fixed-Wing, VTOL, and Multirotor UAV platforms. What You’ll Do ● Architect, model, and optimize UAV systems for high-reliability flight operations. ● Lead root cause investigations for aircraft incidents and implement corrective system improvements. ● Integrate, configure, and tune autopilots (PX4, ArduPilot, custom stacks) across diverse airframes. ● Analyze flight logs, telemetry streams, and onboard sensor data to fine-tune flight performance. ● Design and validate system-level avionics including power systems, EMI mitigation, and hardware layout. ● Collaborate with cross-functional teams for mission-specific configurations and payload integration. ● Drive rigorous testing workflows—HIL/SIL simulations, validation protocols, and safety analysis. What You Bring ● Education : B.Tech or M.Tech in Mechatronics, Electronics & Communication, Aerospace Engineering, or related fields. ● Experience : ○ 2+ years of experience with a B.Tech or 1+ year with an M.Tech in UAV system development and integration. ○ Proven expertise in real-time autopilot tuning, control system calibration, and flight logic optimization using PX4, ArduPilot, or proprietary flight stacks. ○ Solid grounding in control theory, sensor fusion (EKF/UKF), PID tuning, and UAV flight dynamics. ○ Strong experience with flight data log analysis tools: Mission Planner, QGroundControl, UAVCAN monitors, uLog/BIN viewers. ○ Familiarity with MAVLink protocol (custom messages, telemetry streaming, mission control, payload management). ○ System-level understanding of UAV architecture: avionics layout, EMI/EMC best practices, power distribution, and vibration mitigation. ○ Practical knowledge of embedded autopilot platforms (e.g., Cube Orange+, Pixhawk series, STM32 boards) and peripheral integration (GNSS, magnetometer, barometer, airspeed sensor, rangefinder). ○ Hands-on experience with SIL/HIL testing for control validation using Gazebo, JSBSim, or similar simulation tools. ○ Proficient with serial bus protocols and RC systems: SBUS, PPM, DSM, CRSF. ○ Demonstrated payload integration (EO/IR gimbals, LiDAR, hyperspectral, SIGINT) and interface development for gimbal control. ○ Familiarity with fail-safe implementations and autonomous recovery (RTL, parachute deployment, geofence management). ○ Awareness of state-of-the-art avionics trends including AES-encrypted RF, FHSS, anti-jam/spoof systems, and secure telemetry systems. Bonus Skills (Preferred) ● Experience with edge computing platforms (NVIDIA Jetson, Raspberry Pi CM4, etc.) for autonomy or perception. ● Familiarity with ROS/ROS2 for mission logic or autonomous flight control. ● Knowledge of GNSS-denied navigation techniques (visual odometry, LiDAR SLAM, inertial-only navigation). ● Awareness of secure communication protocols, anti-jamming/anti-spoofing tech, and EW-resilient system design. ● Hands-on work with SDR-based payloads, RF link analysis, and antenna system integration. Why Join Karman Drones? At Karman Drones, you’ll be working on industry-defining aerial platforms designed for real-world applications in defense, mapping, surveillance, and emergency response . We are a tight-knit, innovation-driven team of engineers, technologists, and visionaries pushing the boundaries of unmanned systems in India. By joining us, you will: Contribute to real-world projects that make a national impact Work on cutting-edge UAV technology , from design to deployment Be part of a team that values innovation, speed, and continuous learning Grow your career in a fast-evolving and mission-focused startup environment How to Apply Click the “Apply Now” button. Or send your resume and relevant documents to careers@karmandrones.com Take your UAV expertise to the next level—and help shape the future of aerial technology with us. Show more Show less