The Principal Systems Engineer - Actuation Systems is responsible for the design, development, integration, and validation of actuation systems across the company’s Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) platforms. This role focuses on ensuring that flight control, landing gear, payload, and subsystem actuators meet performance, safety, and regulatory requirements. The position requires a combination of technical expertise, systems-level thinking, and cross-disciplinary coordination to support the development of reliable and mission-capable UAVs.
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Key Responsibilities:
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System Architecture & Requirements Development:
- Define and manage system-level requirements and performance specifications for actuation systems.
- Develop system safety analysis and maintain documentation like interface control documents (ICDs) and requirement traceability matrices.
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Design Support & Integration:
- Participate in the selection, integration, and configuration of electromechanical and hydraulic actuators.
- Conduct trade-off analyses for actuator sizing and failure management strategies.
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Validation, Testing & Compliance:
- Develop Verification and Validation (V&V) plans, and support testing activities.
- Ensure compliance with aerospace and defense standards.
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Problem Solving & Engineering Support:
- Lead root cause analysis for actuator-related issues.
- Collaborate with suppliers to resolve technical challenges during production.
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Documentation & Cross-functional Communication:
- Generate and maintain technical documentation including system design descriptions and compliance records.
- Participate in technical reviews and support stakeholder communication.
Qualifications & Experience:
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Educational Background:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Mechatronics, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Systems Engineering (REQUIRED).
- Master’s Degree in a related field or specialization in actuation systems is preferred.
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Professional Experience:
- Minimum of 10+ years in aerospace or defense systems engineering, with 5 years in actuation systems.
- Familiarity with UAVs and related standards (SAE ARP 4754, DO-254, etc.).
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Technical Skills:
- Strong knowledge of electromechanical/hydraulic actuators and servo control systems.
- Familiarity with system modeling tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink) and CAD software.
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Soft Skills & Competencies:
- Strong analytical mindset and effective communication skills.
- Team-oriented with the ability to lead discussions.
Additional Requirements:
- Must be eligible for UAE defense/security clearance.
- Willingness to travel for supplier coordination and technical support as needed.
- Language Requirements: Fluent in English (Arabic language skills are a plus).
- Willingness to relocate to the UAE.
Location: the company HQ, Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates
Work Conditions: On-site, Full-time
