Lead Engineer

Design and build the drone platform that's revolutionising critical infrastructure inspection. This isn't a design-only role - you'll own the complete journey from CAD to flying hardware, prototyping rapidly in our workshop and refining systems based on real-world operational feedback.

You will lead the mechanical and electrical architecture of advanced autonomous drones that are already operating for clients like National Grid. You'll have genuine ownership over the technology roadmap, making key decisions on how we integrate cutting-edge sensors, electronics, and structures onto drone airframes to deliver our software innovations in demanding environments.

You will provide technical leadership to a talented multi-disciplinary team where your designs transform directly into operational hardware within days. You'll see the tangible impact of your work - drones you've built flying real missions across critical infrastructure, with a tight feedback loop between field operations and your next design iteration.

What you'll do
● Own the complete mechanical and electrical architecture of our drone platforms, from initial prototypes through to manufacturable systems for our
internal fleet. You'll lead the technology roadmap for both drone design and the integration team's technical toolset - deciding on CAD systems, testing
frameworks, and lab infrastructure.

● Design, build and test complete mechatronic systems in our workshop - integrating sensors, actuators, wire harnesses, networking, and structural
components. You'll prototype rapidly using 3D printing and develop designs suitable for small-batch production through CNC machining and bonded
assemblies.

● Lead resolution of design issues identified during field operations, driving continuous improvement of reliability through better design and testing
processes. You'll plan and execute comprehensive testing programmes including vibration, thermal, and EMC compliance, using Python for data analysis and sensor evaluation.

● Interface with suppliers on components and assemblies, while managing our in-house lab and build facility. You'll also line manage engineers within the hardware team (currently 4 people, with plans to expand), fostering their growth as we scale.

What you'll need
● Expert-level proficiency in at least one MCAD package (NX/SolidEdge, Solidworks, Fusion 360, Inventor, or similar)

● Strong mechanical design skills with understanding of design for manufacture for both rapid prototyping and small-batch production

● Proficiency in ECAD/MCAD workflow systems for integrated mechanical and electrical design

● Hands-on experience building mechatronic systems from concept to working hardware, particularly integrating sensors with their electrical, network,
firmware, and configuration requirements

● Python (or similar) proficiency for data analysis and sensor evaluation

● Proven ability to plan and execute hardware testing programmes

Bonus: MEng degree, PCB design experience, EMC design understanding, robotics or
autonomous systems background, experience transitioning from R&D to manufacturing.

Mindset
● A pragmatic problem-solver who balances engineering rigour with speed - knowing when to iterate quickly through prototypes and when a design is ready for production

● A systems thinker who sees how mechanical, electrical, and software components integrate

● Hands-on maker who's comfortable with tools and genuinely enjoys building and problem-solving as much as designing

● Resilient and adaptable - you thrive on the iterative reality of hardware development, learning from field feedback and continuously refining designs

● Self-directed with ability to take ownership of technical challenges and drive them to completion

About
We're building the operating system for autonomous drone operations, enabling advanced drones to be controlled remotely. We're a Boeing-backed company operating one of the world's most advanced BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) drone systems for clients including National Grid.

You'll join a collaborative team at a pivotal moment - transitioning proven prototypes into low-volume production. You will experience the unique satisfaction of leading technology that combines cutting-edge design with real-world operational impact.

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