Senior System Integration Engineer

Okulo Aerospace is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Senior System Integration Engineer to lead our system integration efforts for advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of UAV systems, a proven track record of successful integration projects, and the ability to mentor and lead a team of engineers. This role requires expertise in both hardware and software integration, with a focus on creating robust, high-performance, and long-endurance drone platforms.

Responsibilities

· Lead System Integration: Lead and manage the end-to-end system integration process for various UAV platforms, focusing on long-endurance drones.

· Team Leadership & Mentoring: Supervise and mentor a team of integration engineers, providing technical guidance, conducting design reviews, and fostering a collaborative environment.

· Advanced Payload Integration: Oversee the selection, integration, and testing of advanced payloads based on requirements, ensuring seamless functionality and communication with the flight control system.

· Propulsion System Optimization: Lead the evaluation and optimization of propulsion systems, including motors, ESCs, and propellers, to achieve maximum endurance and performance. This includes conducting advanced thrust stand and battery endurance tests.

· Solar & Power System Integration: Direct the integration of solar cells and MPPTs (Maximum Power Point Trackers) for solar-powered UAVs. Analyze and optimize power systems for enhanced energy density and extended flight time.


· Flight Control System (FCS) Expertise: Lead the configuration and fine-tuning of flight control platforms like Ardupilot, developing and implementing advanced control algorithms to optimize flight performance and stability.

· Regulatory Compliance & Documentation: Oversee the process for DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) Type Certification, ensuring all systems and documentation meet regulatory standards.

· Mission Planning & GCS: Manage the use of Ground Control Stations (GCS) like Mission Planner for critical missions, including endurance testing and payload deployment.

· Root Cause Analysis: Lead investigations into crash incidents, utilizing BIN files, telemetry logs, and other data to perform comprehensive root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.

· Hardware & Prototyping: Provide expert-level guidance in soldering, crimping, wire routing, and the use of power tools for complex hardware prototypes and assemblies.

· Strategic Collaboration: Play a key role in performing Proof of Concepts (POCs) and collaborating with external partners.

Requirements

· Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical, or Robotics Engineering.
· Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in UAV system integration.
· Demonstrable experience in a leadership or senior role.
· Proven expertise in integrating key UAV components: BLDC motors, ESCs, Autopilots, Telemetry units, GPS, Servos, Sensors, and Payloads.
· In-depth knowledge of flight control systems, particularly Ardupilot.
· Strong understanding of aerodynamics and propulsion system design.
· Experience with DGCA or similar regulatory compliance for UAVs is a plus.
· Excellent problem-solving skills and a meticulous attention to detail.

Benefits