Principal Systems Engineer - Stability and Control

The Principal Systems Engineer – Stability and Control is responsible for the analysis, modeling, design, and validation of flight dynamics, stability and control, and related systems for the company's Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). This role ensures that platform-level control characteristics meet operational, safety, and regulatory requirements. The position is crucial for defining aerodynamic control effectiveness, handling qualities, and flight safety margins across multiple mission profiles.

Key Responsibilities:

• Stability & Control Analysis:

  • Perform longitudinal, lateral, and directional stability analyses using both linear and non-linear models across various UAV flight regimes.
  • Define control surface sizing, actuator response, and control authority based on aerodynamic and mission requirements.
  • Evaluate natural modes, handling qualities, and stability margins throughout the flight envelope and all flight phases.

• Modeling, Simulation & Control Design:

  • Develop 6-DOF flight dynamics models using MATLAB/Simulink or equivalent tools for simulation and control system integration.
  • Support the design and tuning of autopilot control laws to meet stability and performance criteria.
  • Integrate aerodynamic and mass properties/data into dynamic models for high-fidelity simulation.

• Verification, Testing & Validation:

  • Define and execute Verification & Validation (V&V) strategies for stability and control requirements through simulation, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), and flight test campaigns.
  • Analyze flight test data to assess dynamic response, control stability, and trim conditions.
  • Support wind tunnel testing, ground testing, and flight testing.

• System Integration & Interdisciplinary Coordination:

  • Collaborate with aerodynamics, flight controls, avionics, mechanical systems, and software engineering teams to ensure control system integration and compatibility.
  • Provide input to airworthiness assessments, safety analysis, and certification documents.

• Documentation & Compliance:

  • Prepare and maintain technical documentation including control system models, stability reports, and compliance matrices.
  • Ensure alignment with applicable UAV and aerospace standards.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Educational Background:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering, Flight Mechanics, Control Systems Engineering, or equivalent (REQUIRED).
  • Master’s Degree in Flight Dynamics, Control Engineering, or related specialization (PREFERRED).

• Professional Experience:

  • Minimum 10+ years of relevant experience, with at least 5 years focused on flight stability, dynamics, and control systems in aerospace or UAV applications.
  • Experience with UAVs, fixed-wing, VTOL, or hybrid platforms is preferred.

• Technical Skills:

  • Proficient in flight dynamics and control modeling using MATLAB/Simulink, X-Plane, or FlightGear.
  • Familiar with stability and control analysis tools and airworthiness standards.

Soft Skills & Competencies:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent technical communication and documentation skills.
• Systems-oriented mindset and strategic thinking with attention to flight safety.

Additional Requirements:

• Must be eligible for UAE defense/security clearance.
• Willingness to travel for testing or design reviews.
• Fluent in English (Arabic is a plus).
• Willingness to relocate to UAE.