This role involves leading the design, development, and integration of advanced control software for autonomous and semi-autonomous unmanned aerial systems (UAS), such as fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and hybrid loitering munitions. As a Principal Robotics Control Engineer, you will be instrumental in architecting control algorithms to ensure flight stability, mission execution, and guidance. Additionally, you will mentor junior engineers and align technical strategies with program goals.
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ADASI, a regional leader in autonomous systems and services, is committed to providing comprehensive solutions that encompass the development and production of unmanned systems as well as joint mission analysis and careful equipment acquisition. They manufacture, operate, and maintain next-generation autonomous solutions across air, land, and sea, designed to perform in various challenging environments. By leveraging advanced technologies, ADASI seeks to meet the tactical demands of the future and establish itself as a world leader in developing next-generation autonomous capabilities.
Qualifications & Education:
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Robotics, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field (Master’s or PhD preferred).
- 8+ years of experience in robotics or autonomous systems, including at least 3 years in a lead or principal engineering role.
- In-depth knowledge of control systems theory, flight dynamics, and embedded software.
- Experience with defense or aerospace projects involving UAS.
Job Responsibilities:
- Architect, develop, and validate control and navigation modules for UAS platforms, including loitering munitions and hybrid aerial vehicles.
- Lead the control system design for stability, guidance, and mission execution in both GPS and GPS-denied conditions.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams in hardware, avionics, and mission planning to ensure seamless integration.
- Supervise and mentor control and robotics engineers, reviewing code, designs, and test plans.
- Design simulation environments and support hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and software-in-the-loop (SIL) testing.
- Ensure compliance with aerospace and defense industry standards.
- Contribute to technical documentation, interface specifications, and certification efforts.
- Participate in system-level architecture reviews and design milestone gates (PDR, CDR, etc.).
Technical Skills:
- Proficient in C/C++, Python, and MATLAB/Simulink for control algorithm development.
- Strong background in control theory, including PID tuning, model predictive control (MPC), and adaptive control techniques.
- Deep understanding of flight dynamics for fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and hybrid UAVs.
- Experience with PX4, ROS/ROS2, and RTOS-based embedded systems.
- Familiarity with estimation techniques like EKF, UKF, and sensor fusion methods (IMU, GPS, vision).
- Hands-on experience with simulation tools (Gazebo, FlightGear, or custom environments).
- Knowledge of safety-critical systems and experience with DO-178C or MIL-STD development environments.
- Understanding of swarm behavior, waypoint navigation, and mission planning systems is a plus.
Soft Skills:
- Strategic thinker with an ability to align technical decisions with mission objectives.
- Excellent leadership and mentoring abilities.
- Strong communication skills for effective cross-functional collaboration and reporting.
- Problem-solving mindset with attention to detail and a comprehensive understanding of systems.
- Ability to work under pressure in fast-paced, mission-critical environments.
- Willingness to take ownership and drive solutions from concept to deployment.
