Job Description

Job Title:

Senior R&D Engineer - UAV Systems

About Us

AssetCool is an rapidly growing technology company transforming the energy infrastructure sector through advanced robotics and materials science. Our robotic coating systems increase power line capacity by up to

30%

at a fraction of the cost of traditional upgrades--delivering measurable impact for grid operators across the UK, Europe, and North America.

To extend our technological leadership, we're now investing in

next-generation UAV systems

to support aerial deployment, inspection, and automation tasks as part of our broader robotic ecosystem. This role is your opportunity to shape the future of autonomous aerial systems at the interface of R&D and real-world engineering.

Role Overview

We are looking for a

Senior R&D Engineer - UAV Systems

to lead the design and development of UAV platforms for high-performance, field-deployable applications. You'll take full ownership for the design of the aircraft, its architecture and subsystem integration--from initial concept through prototyping, testing, and refinement.

This is not a theoretical role--you'll be designing and building aircraft to

solve real customer challenges

, from autonomous inspection to robotic delivery systems. You'll work across disciplines including aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, control systems, and wireless comms. Field testing, iteration, and innovation will be central to your work.

What You'll Do

Build the UAV Project and Team

: This is a foundational technology and leadership role and you will be initiating it against product specifications.

Design from First Principles:

Own UAV platform architecture--including structure, aero, propulsion, power systems, and onboard sensors--driven by mission requirements and performance constraints.

Prototype and Test:

Rapidly develop, build, and test platforms in a lab and field environment. Adapt designs based on flight data and user feedback.

Multidisciplinary Integration:

Collaborate with electronics, software, and robotics teams to integrate communications, autonomy modules, and mission payloads.

Field-Focused Innovation:

Design for harsh operating environments (e.g., high EMI, remote areas, low infrastructure) and ensure robustness and reliability.

Performance Optimisation:

Conduct simulations, tuning, and physical validation for flight control, energy efficiency, and stability.

Iterate Fast:

Run tightly scoped tests to evaluate assumptions quickly and build systems that evolve based on real-world results.

Collaborate Across Teams:

Work closely with robotic systems engineers, project leads, and operational staff to ensure designs meet customer needs and integration goals.

Broader Robotic Ecosystem Integration

: integrate the UAV platforms into the broader robotic ecosystem of AssetCool.

Requirements

5+ years of experience in UAV design and development, preferably from clean-sheet concept to functional prototype. Deep understanding of

aerodynamics, propulsion systems, structural design

, and UAV architecture. Strong practical experience with

CAD tools

, 3D printing, and rapid prototyping techniques. Proven ability to lead and deliver across the

full lifecycle

of an R&D hardware project. Strong grounding in

control systems, flight dynamics

, and/or embedded systems integration. Experience with

data-driven design

, flight testing, and performance analysis. BEng/MEng/MSc in Aerospace, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or a closely related field.

Desirable Skills

Experience with

RC aircraft

or

custom UAV builds

(rotary, fixed-wing, or VTOL) Python, MATLAB or C++ for modelling, control, or analysis Li-ion battery design and thermal management GVC / PfCO or other UAV pilot qualifications Experience working in a

startup or high-accountability R&D environment

Exposure to

machine vision, autonomy, or advanced payload systems

Hands-on experience deploying real-time perception, autonomy, or control software on NVIDIA Jetson (Xavier/Orin) or other GPU-accelerated edge platforms, including CUDA/TensorRT optimisation. Fluency with embedded Linux (Ubuntu & Yocto), kernel configuration, and shell/Python scripting for automation, build, and test of UAV avionics.

Why Join AssetCool?

Be at the

cutting edge of UAV design

, building technology that directly contributes to global energy resilience. Join a high-impact R&D team developing

real systems

for

real field deployment

--no bench-only work. Influence the future of autonomous infrastructure solutions, from concept to first flight. Enjoy rapid iteration, meaningful ownership, and direct collaboration across disciplines.
If you are interested in this role, please apply with your CV and a short cover letter detailing how your experience aligns with this role.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. We are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive workplace where everyone can thrive, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

If you have a disability or any specific requirements that require adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know and we'll do our best to accommodate your needs.

We are not looking for agency support currently.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 60,000.00-80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company events Company pension Employee discount Free parking On-site parking
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Application question(s):

Cover Letter
Work Location: In person