ideaForge - Manager - Application Engineering

Our organization is a global leader in drone technology and autonomous aerial systems, driving innovation across defense, logistics, infrastructure, and industrial applications. With a focus on precision engineering and regulatory compliance, we deliver end-to-end UAV-based solutions that integrate seamlessly with client ecosystems across geographies.We are seeking a Manager Application Engineering (International) who will play a pivotal role in deploying, customizing, and optimizing drone solutions for diverse international markets. The ideal candidate will combine technical depth in UAV systems with a strong understanding of global aviation regulations and customer success delivery.Role OverviewThe Manager Application Engineering (International) will lead the deployment, validation, and customization of advanced UAV solutions across client engagements. This position requires a blend of engineering acumen, regulatory awareness, client management, and cross-functional collaboration. The role involves translating customer use cases into robust, compliant, and scalable drone solutions while ensuring alignment with performance and safety standards across international regions.Key Responsibilities1. Strategic Application Deployment- Develop and execute strategies for the deployment and integration of UAV systems within client environments.- Evaluate operational constraints, mission parameters, and environmental challenges to tailor system configurations.- Support global scaling of application engineering frameworks aligned with product roadmap and customer needs.2. Field Trials, Demonstrations, and Proofs of Concept- Lead flight trials, field demonstrations, and proofs of concept (PoCs) to validate system performance.- Analyze flight data, benchmark system outcomes, and recommend hardware/software optimizations.- Generate detailed reports capturing mission results, failure points, and improvement recommendations.3. Regulatory Compliance & International Operations- Liaise with global aviation authorities and internal compliance teams to ensure adherence to FAA (USA), EASA (Europe), and TCCA (Canada) regulations.- Evaluate and implement country-specific operational protocols, airspace restrictions, and certification requirements.- Manage all documentation and processes for cross-border UAV operations.4. Technical Collaboration & Solution Integration- Work closely with product development, software engineering, and operations teams to align field requirements with system capabilities.- Contribute to integration efforts involving UAVs, payloads, and backend systems such as flight control software, GIS platforms, and analytics dashboards.- Support system calibration, data pipeline configuration, and API integration for seamless data exchange between UAV systems and enterprise platforms.5. Root Cause Analysis (RCA) & Continuous Improvement- Lead root cause investigations for system failures, mission deviations, or performance inefficiencies.- Develop mitigation plans, track corrective actions, and validate long-term system improvements.- Establish feedback loops between field operations and R&D teams for iterative innovation.6. Documentation & Reporting- Produce detailed technical documentation covering test plans, mission logs, compliance checklists, and deployment protocols.- Maintain repositories of test data and compliance records for audit readiness.- Present reports to leadership and clients summarizing key metrics, performance trends, and operational insights.7. Continuous Learning & Innovation- Stay updated with UAV industry developments, emerging drone technologies, sensor integrations, and automation frameworks.- Participate in technical conferences, regulatory forums, and cross-functional workshops to strengthen organizational expertise.- Evaluate next-generation UAV components, software tools, and flight management systems for adoption.Required Skills & Bachelors or Masters degree in Aerospace Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or related discipline.Experience: 710 years in UAV operations, application engineering, or autonomous systems deployment, including international project experience.Technical Proficiency:- Strong command of UAV platforms, flight controllers, ground control software, and payload integrations.- Knowledge of telemetry systems, data communication protocols, and mission planning tools.- Familiarity with software components such as PX4, ArduPilot, Mission Planner, or proprietary GCS solutions.- Exposure to cloud-based UAV analytics platforms and APIs for data ingestion and visualization.Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of FAA Part 107, EASA UAS regulations, and TCCA UAV frameworks.Analytical Skills: Proven capability in risk assessment, data-driven decision-making, and operational optimization.Client Engagement: Experience delivering technical solutions to enterprise clients and managing multi-stakeholder Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to prepare high-quality documentation and client presentations.Mobility: Willingness to travel internationally for project execution, client engagements, and field testing. (ref:hirist.tech)