ABOUT THE ROLE
The Systems Engineer – Stability and Control is responsible for the analysis, modeling, design, and validation of flight dynamics, stability and control, and related systems for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). This role ensures that platform-level control characteristics meet operational, safety, and regulatory requirements. The position is key to defining aerodynamic control effectiveness, handling qualities, and flight safety margins across multiple mission profiles.
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RESPONSIBILITIES
Stability & Control Analysis
- Perform longitudinal, lateral, and directional stability analyses using 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 phases of flight.
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 (e.g., PID, LQR, Gain-Scheduling controllers) 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, including pre- and post-flight predictions and analyses.
System Integration & Interdisciplinary Coordination
- Work closely 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, including handling qualities evaluations per MIL-F-8785C or similar standards.
Documentation & Compliance
- Prepare and maintain technical documentation including control system models, stability reports, control surface effectiveness data, and compliance matrices.
- Ensure alignment with applicable UAV and aerospace standards, including CS-UAS, MIL-STD-1797, and internal design standards.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
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.
- Proficient in:
- Flight dynamics and control modeling using MATLAB/Simulink, X-Plane, or FlightGear
- Control system design and tuning (classical and modern control methods)
- Use of stability and control analysis tools (AVL, XFOIL, Athena Vortex Lattice, or equivalent)
- Demonstrated understanding of:
- Aerodynamic stability principles
- Control surface effectiveness and actuator limitations
- Coupling effects, flutter margins, and flight envelope constraints
- Familiar with:
- Airworthiness and stability standards (e.g., MIL-F-8785C, MIL-HDBK-1797)
- CFD and mass property data integration
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- INCOSE ASEP or CSEP – Preferred
- Certification in control systems, UAV dynamics, or flight simulation tools – Advantageous
- AS9100D or ISO 9001 Quality System awareness – Preferred
WHY CHOOSE THE COMPANY
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.
