Flight Control Engineer

ArduPilot Software Engineer Unmanned Air Systems

Location: Salisbury, Wiltshire (Hybrid)

Salary: £50,000 – £60,000

A specialist UAS technology company is seeking an ArduPilot Software Engineer to join their growing Autopilot team. This is a hands-on engineering role placing the right candidate at the forefront of unmanned air systems development in the UK.

You'll work across the full software lifecycle from requirements capture through to implementation and flight testing developing and optimising flight control systems for a range of UAV platforms to a high degree of safety and reliability.

Candidates must be eligible to hold UK Security Clearance (minimum 5 years UK residency).

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, configure, and test ArduPilot-based flight control systems across multiple UAV platforms
• Test and optimise flight behaviours, parameters, and mission execution in SITL and real flight environments
• Support sensor integration (GPS, cameras, LiDAR) and ensure robust flight performance
• Assist in software requirements capture, architectural design, and documentation
• Contribute to simulation environments and internal development standards
• Support implementation of Software Engineering Quality Practices and participate in peer reviews
• Contribute to R&D and application of emerging technologies

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven hands-on experience with ArduPilot, PX4, or similar open-source autopilot stacks
• Strong knowledge of MAVLink, mission planning, and UAV communication protocols
• Practical experience with UAV tuning, flight testing, and log analysis (Mission Planner, MAVProxy)
• Excellent working knowledge of C++
• Experience with communication protocols: CAN, SPI, I2C, UDP, TCP
• Experience taking a design from requirements definition through to completion
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced R&D environment

Desired Skills & Experience

• Familiarity with Linux environments and ArduPilot SITL
• Exposure to LUA (strong plus), Python, or Rust
• Background in aeronautics and control systems, including PID control loops
• Knowledge of safety-related engineering practices
• Experience working in an Agile environment
• BSc or MSc in an Engineering or Science discipline

What's on Offer

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with buy/sell flexibility
• Private health and dental insurance via Bupa
• Life assurance (6x salary) and income protection (75% salary)
• Company pension, share incentive plan, and green car scheme
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
• 1 professional membership reimbursed per year
• Access to independent financial advice and training & development opportunities

Our client is an equal opportunities employer committed to building an inclusive working environment. Applications are welcomed from all suitably qualified candidates.

Roles are subject to security and export control restrictions. Candidates must have the right to work in the UK.