UK - UAV Technician

Job Title: UAV Technician

Reports to: Head of Engineering

Type: Full time: permanent

Security Clearance requirement: Applicants must be eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance (SC).

Location: Bristol

The role is primarily on site in Bristol for most of the working week, with regular field work. A successful candidate should be flexible and comfortable working in a dynamic environment where priorities can change at short notice.

Role summary

We are seeking a skilled UAS Technician to support research and development efforts on a leading-edge autonomy programme. Day-to-day tasks will include building, integrating, maintaining and improving high quality unmanned aerial systems for defence and security applications.

This is a practical role working closely with engineers to deliver prototypes and development aircraft, while also helping establish the methods, documentation and workshop discipline needed to support production requirements.

Fixed wing piloting and flight test support are a key part of this role. You will be expected to confidently support fixed wing test activity, including preparation, checks, post flight inspection and troubleshooting.

Key responsibilities

Build, modify, integrate and repair complex UAS platforms, sub assemblies to a consistently high standard

Complete electrical assembly including soldering, crimping, connector work and cable harness manufacture

Carry out mechanical fitting, alignment, fastening, bonding and finishing with strong attention to detail

Perform structured fault finding, complete repairs, then verify and document outcomes

Support fixed wing flight test activity including aircraft preparation, configuration checks, flight readiness, post flight inspections and in-field repairs.

Pilot fixed wing aircraft as and when required and appropriate within the regulatory frameworks.

Maintain tool and equipment registers and keep the workshop organised, safe and fit for purpose

Manage consumables and spares control, including stock checks and replenishment planning

Maintain and update bills of materials and parts lists in collaboration with Engineering

Liaise with suppliers, place orders, track deliveries and manage lead times

Create and improve build documentation and workshop processes such as

checklists, inspection points and maintenance records

Use 3D printing to produce fixtures, brackets, enclosures and fit check parts, including suitable post processing and finishing

Contribute to production readiness by determining assembly methods and best working practices

Essential skills and experience

Proven hands-on experience building, maintaining or integrating UASs or closely related RC platforms

Strong ability and confidence flying fixed wing aircraft, with evidence of safe operation and good judgement

Full UK driving license

Comfortable supporting fixed wing flight testing and working in a test environment where priorities can change quickly

Comfortable with working globally for various demonstrations and other work-related campaigns.

High quality soldering skills and confident use of crimp tools, connectors and harnessing methods

Strong mechanical fitting ability including alignment, fastening, bonding and careful finishing

Strong 3D printing skills and a practical mindset for producing useful parts and fixtures.

Experience managing bills of materials, ordering parts and liaising with suppliers

Experience maintaining a well organised workshop including tool control and registers

A quality first mindset with pride in workmanship and attention to detail

Ability to work primarily on site in Bristol, with occasional flexibility and support activities off-site now and again

Applicants must be eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance (SC) due to the nature of the work and projects involved.

Desirable skills and experience

GVC certification, or willingness to obtain it

Experience with VTOL UAS platforms

Experience working with PX4/Ardupilot or other common open-source UAS firmware/software packages

Working knowledge of UK drone law and regulatory framework

Substantial to fair fixed wing flying experience.

Proficiency in setup and operation of RF communications systems

Composite layup skills would be desirable

Experience creating jigs and fixtures to reduce build variation and improve repeatability

Strong documentation habit and experience working to controlled processes