Sr. Engineer I

Who we are: We are a start-up based out of Bengaluru & Delhi NCR. We are engaged in development of next generation missions and technologies (NGM&T) towards future warfare needs of the Indian defence forces. It is undertaking research towards enhancing persistence and autonomy for unmanned vehicles and robotic swarms. NRT’s product development portfolio includes a solar power stratospheric high altitude pseudo satellite (HAPS) unmanned platform and an air/ground launched stand-off autonomous system. Job Title: UAV Flight Dynamics & Control Engineer Job Summary: We are seeking an experienced UAV Flight Dynamics & Control Engineer to join our R&D team focused on developing advanced VTOL UAV platforms. The selected candidate will play a key role in designing, implementing, and validating flight control algorithms to ensure UAV stability, performance, and autonomy. This role demands strong expertise in UAV autopilot platforms such as Ardupilot, Embention Veronte, and other commercial flight control systems. You will work in a dynamic R&D setting and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver innovative UAV solutions. Responsibilities: - Design and develop flight dynamics models and control architectures for VTOL UAVs. - Implement, simulate, and optimize control laws for stability, guidance, and navigation. - Create and maintain mathematical models and simulations for accurate performance predictions. - Develop and test flight control algorithms in SIL and HIL simulations in various autopilot systems. - Integrate autopilot systems with onboard avionics, navigation, and mission management software. - Perform simulation modelling using MATLAB/Simulink and validate with real-world flight test data. - Analyse performance data from flight tests and iterate control logic to improve response and robustness. - Collaborate with avionics, mechanical, and software teams for integrated system development. - Ensure redundancy, safety, and fail-safe mechanisms are incorporated into flight control systems. - Document control algorithms, system architecture, and validation reports. - Stay updated on regulatory requirements and industry best practices. - Drive innovation in autonomous flight systems, including sensor fusion, adaptive control, and fault-tolerant control techniques. Experience / Skills: - Hands-on experience with UAV flight testing and post-flight data analysis. - Proficient in Ardupilot, Embention Veronte, and other autopilot ecosystems. - Strong theoretical knowledge in Flight Mechanics, Control Theory, and Stability Analysis. - Experience in control system development, tuning, and optimization for autonomous flight. - Proficiency with MATLAB, Simulink, and flight simulation tools. - Familiarity with communication protocols (CAN,UART,SPI,I2C, MAVLink) and embedded systems. - Experience in trajectory optimization and non-linear, multi-objective optimization techniques. - Understanding of sensor integration, including GPS, IMUs, air data sensors, and magnetometers. - Capability to conduct independent feasibility assessments and system architecture reviews. - Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to system-level integration. - High level of self-motivation and ownership in an agile R&D environment. Basic Qualifications: - Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautics, or related field. - Minimum 3+ years of experience in UAV control systems development and flight dynamics. Team Skills: - Strong written and verbal communication skills. - Ability to work in a multi-disciplinary, distributed team environment. - Demonstrated adaptability, critical thinking, and leadership capabilities. - Commitment to timelines and project goals.