ABOUT THE ROLE
Lead exploratory and applied research and development into next-generation UAV/RPAS propulsion — battery-electric, hybrid-electric (ICE + electric), and hydrogen (fuel cell and/or hydrogen combustion) powertrains. The objective is to build the company's technology base and product options beyond conventional internal combustion, sized to the platform classes addressed by the P-series portfolio.
This is a forward-looking, hands-on engineering role spanning technology scouting, concept design, modelling, and prototyping — working closely with the company's Italy facility, the Test team, and external technology partners.
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RESPONSIBILITIES
Technology Roadmap & Scouting
- Roadmap — build and maintain the company's new-propulsion roadmap (electric, hybrid, hydrogen) aligned to platform needs.
- Scouting & benchmarking — track technology and suppliers (electric motors, controllers/inverters, batteries, fuel cells, hydrogen storage) and benchmark competitor approaches.
Concept Design & Feasibility
- Concepts — develop concepts and feasibility studies for electric, hybrid-electric, and hydrogen powertrains sized to UAV platform classes.
- Trade studies — run trade studies on endurance, weight, power-to-weight, thermal management, packaging, cost, and safety.
Modelling & Analysis
- Powertrain modelling — model and size powertrains and energy systems; perform mission/energy, thermal, and integration analysis.
- Tools — use first-principles engineering and simulation (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, Python) to support design decisions.
Prototyping & Testing
- Demonstrators — design, build, and test demonstrators and bench rigs; be hands-on in the lab and test cell.
- Test coordination — coordinate test campaigns with the Test team and the Italy facility, including instrumentation and data analysis.
Partner & Supplier Coordination
- Partnerships — work with technology partners, suppliers, and universities; frequent coordination and on-site work at the Italy facility.
- Supplier R&D — manage R&D supplier relationships and joint development activities.
IP, Documentation & Hand-off
- IP & reports — capture intellectual property and produce technical reports, concept definitions, and data to inform product decisions.
- Hand-off — transition validated concepts toward product development with the relevant Product Manager.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Essential
- Degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Energy, or Mechatronics Engineering (Master’s/PhD desirable).
- 5+ years in propulsion or powertrain R&D, including hands-on work in at least one of electric, hybrid-electric, or hydrogen systems.
- Strong first-principles engineering, modelling, and prototyping ability.
- Demonstrated ability to take a technology from concept through feasibility to working demonstrator.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Fuel cells, hydrogen storage and safety, or hydrogen combustion experience.
- Battery systems, electric motor/inverter integration, and hybrid powertrain control.
- UAV/aerospace propulsion; functional safety for high-voltage or hydrogen systems.
WHY CHOOSE THE COMPANY
Launched in November 2019, the UAE's company is one of the world's leading advanced technology groups, established to develop agile, bold and disruptive solutions for defence and beyond, and to be a catalyst for change and transformation. It is dedicated to bringing breakthrough innovations, products, and services to market with greater speed and efficiency, to position the UAE as a leading global hub for future industries, and to creating clear paths within the sector for the next generation of highly skilled talent to thrive.
At the company, the real investment goes beyond compensation. Through our dedicated learning academy and digital learning platforms, employees have access to extensive opportunities to develop new skills, deepen their expertise, and advance their careers. Combined with the freedom to innovate, strong career support, and the opportunity to collaborate with world-class talent from across the globe, the company is a place where you can continue to grow, keep learning, and turn ambitious ideas into meaningful outcomes.
Working at the company also comes with a package that genuinely reflects how much we value our people. Salaries are highly competitive and tax-free and, depending on your role and seniority, benefits can include family visas, annual flight tickets, medical insurance for you and your dependents, and education allowances for your children.
CANDIDATE PRIVACY & EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
If you feel your skills, experience and potential are a strong match for a role, we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every requirement. We are genuinely interested in what you can bring to the company.
Any information you share as part of your company candidate profile or job application will be handled in accordance with applicable data protection and privacy regulations.
The company is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and high-performing workforce. We believe every individual deserves to be treated with fairness, respect and dignity, and our employment decisions reflect that. We do not discriminate based on race, colour, nationality, ethnicity, religion, gender, marital status, age, disability, pregnancy or parental status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
As a global organisation, effective collaboration across international teams is central to how we work, so English proficiency is required for all roles unless otherwise stated in the job posting.
Please note that the company does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruitment agencies. Any resumes in the absence of a formally executed agreement in place will be deemed the property of the company, and no placement fees or compensation will be payable in respect of such submissions.
