UAV Prototyping and Flight Support Engineer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UAV Prototyping and Flight Support Engineer

Company: Tekever

Location: Leiria, Portugal

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering - Aerospace/Robotics/Mechanical

Date Posted: April 27, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (3+ years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for the advancement of TEKEVER's Data & AI initiatives, specifically focusing on multi-robot swarming capabilities for Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).

• The position involves hands-on fabrication, maintenance, and engineering of a fleet of foam-based fixed-wing UAV test platforms that serve as the primary experimentation environment for swarming algorithm development.

• Key responsibilities include the integration and configuration of autopilots (PX4/ArduPilot), avionics, networking, and telemetry systems, alongside structured flight testing and detailed log analysis.

• The engineer will collaborate closely with the Swarming Team, AR3 engineering, and Flight Liaison to ensure the testbed fleet effectively supports R&D and aligns with future integration into operational systems like AR3.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title and description focus on UAV prototyping, the context of "Data & AI Swarming Team" and "multi-robot swarming capabilities" strongly suggests this role is an integral part of the company's GTM (Go-To-Market) strategy for advanced autonomous systems, requiring a deep understanding of how robust testing directly impacts product readiness and market deployment. The focus on documentation for SORA/BVLOS also highlights a critical GTM readiness aspect.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Fleet Management & Maintenance: Build, maintain, repair, and ensure high readiness and consistency across a fleet of foam-based fixed-wing UAVs, serving as the primary experimentation platform for the Data & AI Swarming Team.

• Autopilot & Avionics Integration: Configure and tune autopilots (PX4/ArduPilot), including parameters, calibrations, failsafe actions, and emergency logic. Wire and integrate avionics such as RC/telemetry links, antennas, sensors, and payloads, ensuring clean, EMI-aware layouts.

• Troubleshooting & Diagnostics: Perform rapid structural/electrical repairs and develop strong fault diagnosis skills, identifying root causes for issues like vibration, CG shifts, RF interference, power anomalies, and control geometry problems.

• Flight Testing & Analysis: Plan and execute structured tests, including ground checks, VLOS (Visual Line of Sight) flights for validation and tuning, envelope expansion, and detailed post-flight log analysis to drive algorithm development.

• Documentation & Traceability: Maintain comprehensive and reproducible technical documentation, including Bills of Materials (BOMs), configuration files, change logs, repair records, incident reports, test results, and maintenance logs, utilizing tools like Jira and Confluence.

• SORA/BVLOS Support: Provide essential technical inputs for SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment) and BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) documentation, including configurations, operational limits, mission profiles, and reliability/maintenance data to support regulatory compliance and operational approval.

• Collaboration & Communication: Work closely with Swarm engineers, AR3 engineering (hardware, firmware, integration), and the Flight Liaison, aligning testbed capabilities with project goals and ensuring effective communication in a multi-disciplinary technical environment.

• Process Improvement: Propose and implement minor enhancements to build processes, reliability, and maintainability to reduce incident rates and improve cycle times for the testbed fleet.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "structured tests," "log analysis," "SORA/BVLOS support," and "traceability" indicates a strong need for systematic approaches to testing and documentation, crucial for validating autonomous systems and preparing them for commercial or defense applications. This extends beyond pure R&D into readiness for deployment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

Required Technical Skills:

• Fixed-wing Assembly: Proficient in end-to-end assembly of small fixed-wing UAVs, including airframe construction, servo and powertrain integration, and avionics installation.

• Autopilot Integration: Solid experience configuring and tuning PX4 or ArduPilot, encompassing parameter setup, calibration, failsafe actions, and emergency logic implementation.

• Troubleshooting & Diagnostics: Demonstrated ability to identify and resolve hardware and software issues related to vibration, CG, wiring faults, control geometry, networking, RF/telemetry links, and power anomalies, utilizing structured root-cause analysis methodologies.

• Avionics Integration: Competent in soldering, wiring harnesses, connectors, ESC/BEC, RC/telemetry systems (e.g., SBUS, ELRS, MAVLink), antenna placement, and sensor integration.

• Flight Testing: Capable of performing VLOS flights for validation, tuning, and troubleshooting, with a strong understanding of pre-flight checks and safe test procedures.

• Documentation & Traceability: Proven experience in maintaining clear, reproducible technical documentation, including BOMs, configuration files, change logs, maintenance records, and test results, preferably within platforms like Jira/Confluence.

• CAD & Rapid Fabrication: Basic proficiency with CAD software (e.g., Fusion 360, SolidWorks) and 3D printing for creating custom mounts, brackets, and minor airframe modifications.

• Fleet Reliability Mindset: Strong attention to detail in build consistency, repeatability, and maintainability to ensure stable platforms for testing and evidence gathering for SORA/BVLOS applications.

• Collaboration: Ability to work effectively daily with cross-functional engineering teams (Swarm, AR3 hardware/firmware/integration, Flight Liaison) in a technical, iterative R&D environment.

• English Proficiency: Comfortable communicating effectively in English, both written and spoken, within a multi-disciplinary engineering setting.

Preferred Technical Skills:

• SORA/BVLOS Exposure: Familiarity with SORA-based safety assessments, operational limitations, or BVLOS technical requirements.

• ROS/ROS2: Experience developing or integrating components within the Robot Operating System (ROS/ROS2) ecosystem.

• Simulation Tools: Experience with UAV simulation environments such as Gazebo, JSBSim, NVIDIA Isaac, Webots, or High-Level/Software-in-the-Loop (HIL/SIL) test setups.

• Linux & Scripting: Basic proficiency with Linux, shell tools, and small automation scripts (Python/Bash) for managing logs, configurations, or tooling.

• MAVLink & Communications: Understanding of MAVLink message flows, telemetry routing, and RF considerations, including antenna placement and noise mitigation.

• Composite & Foam Fabrication: Skills in foam repair, laminates, carbon reinforcement, light CNC fabrication, or hot-wire cutting.

• Advanced Networking: Ability to configure and maintain networking setups relevant to UAV operations, including routers, switches, mesh systems, IP addressing, routing, bandwidth management, link redundancy, monitoring, and diagnostics.

Soft Skills:

• Analytical Skills: Excellent problem-solving abilities, with a capacity to analyze flight logs, diagnose technical issues, and identify root-cause solutions that enhance platform stability and reliability.

• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills for effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and clear documentation of technical findings.

• Attention to Detail: High level of precision in build quality, wiring, alignment, configuration control, and documentation to ensure consistency, accuracy, and reproducibility.

• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, iterative R&D environment, balancing hands-on work with documentation and adapting to evolving project requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive list of required and preferred technical skills, particularly in autopilot integration, avionics, troubleshooting, and documentation, underscores the critical nature of this role in ensuring the reliability and deployability of TEKEVER's autonomous systems. The emphasis on SORA/BVLOS and the need for reproducible documentation points to a need for candidates who understand the intersection of R&D and operational readiness.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrated Build Consistency: Showcase examples of meticulously built and documented UAV platforms, highlighting attention to detail in wiring, component integration, and structural integrity.

• Configuration Control Examples: Present evidence of managing and documenting complex autopilot configurations (PX4/ArduPilot), including parameter files, calibration logs, and failsafe settings.

• Troubleshooting Case Studies: Include detailed case studies of complex technical issues encountered during UAV assembly, integration, or flight, outlining the diagnostic process, root-cause analysis, and resolution implemented.

• Flight Test Documentation: Provide samples of flight test plans, pre-flight checklists, and post-flight log analysis reports, demonstrating a systematic approach to testing and validation.

• SORA/BVLOS Input Samples (if available): If possible, include anonymized examples of technical inputs or documentation prepared to support regulatory assessments or BVLOS operations.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in designing and documenting streamlined workflows for UAV assembly, maintenance, and testing processes, focusing on efficiency and repeatability.

• Implementation & Automation: Showcase examples of implementing new processes, tools, or minor scripts (e.g., Python/Bash) to improve build quality, streamline configuration management, or automate data analysis.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Illustrate how you have tracked and analyzed key performance indicators (KPIs) related to fleet readiness, incident rates, or repair turnaround times to drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio is not just about showcasing completed projects but demonstrating a rigorous, systematic, and documented approach to building, testing, and maintaining complex electromechanical systems. The emphasis on traceability and SORA/BVLOS support implies a need for portfolio items that reflect an understanding of safety-critical systems engineering principles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Meal Allowance: Provision for daily meal expenses, contributing to employee well-being.

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage for employees.

• Shuttle Transport Service: Convenient transportation provided to and from offices in Leiria, Caldas da Rainha, and Ponte de Sor.

• Bonus: Performance-based bonus in line with company policy, recognizing contributions to project success.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued learning and skill advancement within a cutting-edge technology company.

• Direct Exposure: Hands-on experience with advanced UAV systems and swarming concepts, contributing to the development and testing of autonomous behaviors.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours, typically 40 hours per week, with potential for flexibility based on project needs and flight campaign schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on research into average engineering salaries in Portugal for mid-level roles with specialized technical skills in aerospace and robotics. The benefits listed are directly from the job description and are typical for the industry in Portugal, emphasizing employee welfare and convenience.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Aerospace & Defense Technology, Data & AI Solutions, Autonomous Systems. TEKEVER operates at the intersection of advanced hardware design, sophisticated software platforms, and cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence, particularly focusing on Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) for defense and civil applications.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated in the raw data, TEKEVER is described as "growing fast" and expanding its "Data & AI function," suggesting it is a dynamic, medium-to-large enterprise with established operations and ambitious growth plans. This implies a structured yet agile environment.

Founded: The company was founded in 2009. This provides a decade and a half of experience in the complex aerospace and defense technology sector, indicating maturity in product development and market understanding.

Team Structure:

• Data & AI Function: This role directly supports the expanding Data & AI team, which is focused on developing multi-robot swarming capabilities.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The engineer will work closely with the Swarm Team, AR3 engineering (hardware, firmware, integration), and a Flight Liaison, indicating a highly collaborative and integrated R&D environment.

• Reporting Hierarchy: While not detailed, the emphasis on close collaboration suggests a relatively flat structure within the R&D teams, with direct interaction with senior engineers and potentially leads.

Methodology:

• Iterative R&D: The role involves rapid development, testing, and validation of early-stage algorithms using foam-based platforms, indicating an iterative approach to innovation.

• Data-Driven Validation: Emphasis on detailed log analysis and structured flight testing highlights a commitment to data-driven decision-making and performance validation.

• Agile Development Principles: The need for rapid prototyping, adaptation, and continuous improvement suggests adherence to agile development principles within the engineering teams.

Company Website: https://careers.tekever.com

📝 Enhancement Note: TEKEVER's focus on advanced UAS, AI, and swarming capabilities positions it as a leader in a high-growth, technologically intensive sector. The company culture appears to value innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to delivering sophisticated solutions. The "no politics" mention suggests an environment focused purely on technical achievement and project delivery.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level Engineer, requiring 3+ years of specific experience. It serves as a critical support function for advanced R&D, bridging the gap between raw prototyping and operational system integration.

Reporting Structure: The engineer will report within the R&D structure, working closely with the Swarm Team and AR3 engineering teams. Direct reporting lines are likely to a lead engineer or engineering manager responsible for the R&D testbed fleet.

Operations Impact: The primary impact of this role is enabling the Data & AI Swarming team to rapidly develop, test, and validate advanced autonomous behaviors. By providing a reliable, well-documented, and consistent fleet of test platforms, this engineer directly accelerates the innovation cycle and de-risks the transition of algorithms to operational systems like AR3, ultimately contributing to TEKEVER's competitive edge in the defense and civil UAS markets.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization in Autonomous Systems: Deepen expertise in UAV prototyping, autopilot systems (PX4/ArduPilot), swarming algorithms, and related avionics and communication technologies.

• Transition to Operational Systems: Potential to move into roles involving the integration of tested algorithms onto TEKEVER's operational AR3 platforms or other advanced UAS.

• Documentation & Compliance Expertise: Develop specialized skills in generating technical documentation for regulatory compliance (SORA/BVLOS), a critical area for market entry and expansion.

• Leadership in Testbed Management: Grow into a senior role responsible for managing larger fleets, training new engineers, and defining best practices for UAV prototyping and flight support.

• Exposure to AI/ML Development: Close collaboration with the Data & AI team offers insights into advanced machine learning and AI applications for robotics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for this role is strongly tied to the company's advancement in autonomous systems and AI. Success here can lead to deeper involvement in operational system development, regulatory compliance, and specialized engineering leadership within TEKEVER's cutting-edge R&D division.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based "on-site at Leiria within the AR3 workshop." This suggests a dedicated, hands-on engineering and fabrication environment, likely equipped with specialized tools and workspaces for UAV development.

Office Location(s): Leiria, Portugal. The company also mentions shuttle services to Caldas da Rainha and Ponte de Sor, indicating these might be other operational or development sites.

Workspace Context:

• Hands-on Fabrication: A significant portion of the role (50%) involves direct fabrication and maintenance, implying a workshop setting with access to tools, materials, and equipment for building and repairing foam-based aircraft.

• Engineering & Integration: The other 50% involves engineering tasks such as autopilot setup, parameter tuning, telemetry integration, and log analysis, requiring a desk-based workspace with necessary computing resources.

• Collaborative Environment: Close daily interaction with the Swarm Team, AR3 engineering, and Flight Liaison is expected, fostering a collaborative and communicative atmosphere.

• Technology Access: Access to relevant software (CAD, autopilot configuration tools, Jira/Confluence) and hardware (telemetry radios, test equipment) will be provided.

Work Schedule:

• The role is full-time, typically 40 hours per week. Given the nature of flight testing and R&D, there might be occasional requirements for adjusted hours to support specific test campaigns or critical development milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description points to a dynamic, hands-on work environment within a dedicated engineering workshop. The blend of fabrication and engineering tasks requires adaptability and a willingness to engage in both physical and analytical work.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and cover letter to assess experience, qualifications, and alignment with role requirements.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions focusing on practical experience with UAV prototyping, fixed-wing assembly, autopilot configuration (PX4/ArduPilot), avionics integration, troubleshooting methodologies, and flight testing procedures. Expect questions probing your approach to root-cause analysis and documentation.

• Hands-on / Practical Assessment: Potentially a small practical test or a detailed discussion of past projects where you've demonstrated key skills (e.g., explaining a complex build, troubleshooting a hypothetical issue).

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with members of the Swarm and AR3 engineering teams to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and fit within the R&D environment.

• Final Interview: Discussion with hiring manager or senior leadership to finalize the offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio by key skills or project types (e.g., "Assembly & Integration," "Autopilot Configuration," "Troubleshooting Case Studies," "Documentation Samples").

• Highlight Process & Methodology: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your approach/process, the tools used, the challenges faced, and the outcome. Emphasize your systematic approach to problem-solving and documentation.

• Showcase Documentation Quality: Include clear examples of technical documentation, configuration files, and test reports. Demonstrate your ability to maintain accurate and reproducible records.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, quantify the impact of your work (e.g., "Reduced build time by X%", "Improved flight stability by Y%," "Successfully troubleshot Z complex issues").

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experience with fixed-wing UAVs, PX4/ArduPilot, and troubleshooting complex systems. If you have SORA/BVLOS experience, make it prominent.

Challenge Preparation:

• Troubleshooting Scenarios: Be prepared to walk through how you would diagnose and resolve common UAV issues (e.g., erratic flight behavior, communication loss, power system failures).

• Configuration Walkthrough: Be ready to explain your approach to configuring an autopilot for a new airframe, including key parameters, safety checks, and tuning strategies.

• Documentation Best Practices: Discuss your approach to documenting a complex build or a critical flight test, ensuring all necessary information is captured for traceability and future reference.

• Collaboration Scenarios: Prepare examples of how you have collaborated with other engineering disciplines to solve complex problems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be highly technical, with a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on experience and a systematic approach to engineering challenges. A well-structured portfolio demonstrating these capabilities will be crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autopilots: PX4, ArduPilot (extensive configuration, tuning, and parameterization experience required)

• Flight Control Software: Ground control stations (e.g., QGroundControl, Mission Planner) for configuration, monitoring, and mission planning.

• CAD Software: Basic proficiency in Fusion 360, SolidWorks, or similar for designing mounts and modifications.

• 3D Printing: For rapid prototyping of custom parts.

• Soldering & Electronics Tools: Standard equipment for wiring, repairs, and integration.

• Diagnostic Tools: Multimeters, oscilloscopes (potentially), and specialized RF testers.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Log Analysis Tools: Software for analyzing flight data logs (e.g., MAVLink inspector, specialized log analysis tools).

• Data Visualization Tools: Potentially used for analyzing test results or fleet performance metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management & Documentation: Jira, Confluence (essential for documentation, issue tracking, and knowledge management).

• Version Control: Git (likely for software components and configuration files).

• Scripting: Python, Bash (for automation of logs, configs, or tooling).

Networking & Communications:

• Telemetry Radios: Experience with various telemetry systems (e.g., SiK, DragonLink, Crossfire).

• Networking Hardware: Routers, switches, IP link configuration for robust UAV communication networks.

• MAVLink Protocol: Understanding of MAVLink for data exchange between UAV and ground systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with PX4/ArduPilot and associated ground control stations is non-negotiable. Experience with Jira/Confluence for documentation and traceability is also critical. Familiarity with scripting and networking concepts will be highly advantageous for efficient fleet management and data handling.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence & Precision: A strong emphasis on meticulous build quality, accurate configuration, and reliable performance, directly impacting the success of autonomous system development.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Daily interaction with multiple engineering teams necessitates a collaborative spirit, open communication, and a willingness to support colleagues in achieving shared goals.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: The role is embedded in R&D, requiring an iterative mindset, a drive to explore new solutions, and a proactive approach to enhancing processes and fleet reliability.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: A commitment to thorough testing and detailed log analysis to inform development decisions and validate system performance.

• Ownership & Accountability: Taking responsibility for the entire lifecycle of the foamy testbed fleet, from fabrication to maintenance and support.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Close working relationships with Swarm, AR3, and Flight Liaison teams, requiring effective communication across different engineering disciplines.

• Iterative Feedback Loops: Regular feedback exchange on aircraft performance, configuration issues, and R&D needs to ensure the testbed fleet remains aligned with project objectives.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing best practices for assembly, troubleshooting, and documentation to improve overall team efficiency and effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture appears to be highly technical, results-oriented, and collaborative. Success in this role will depend on not only technical skill but also the ability to integrate seamlessly into a multidisciplinary R&D team and contribute to a shared mission of advancing autonomous systems.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Fleet Scalability & Maintenance Load: Managing and maintaining a growing fleet of test platforms while ensuring high readiness and consistency can be demanding, requiring efficient processes and time management.

• Balancing R&D Needs with Operational Rigor: Ensuring that rapid prototyping for swarming R&D doesn't compromise the need for robust, documented, and reliable platforms suitable for future SORA/BVLOS evidence.

• Troubleshooting Complex Interdependencies: Diagnosing issues that may arise from the interaction of hardware, firmware, software, networking, and environmental factors in a dynamic test environment.

• Adapting to Evolving Requirements: Staying abreast of evolving swarming algorithms and AR3 integration pathways, which may necessitate modifications or new configurations for the testbed fleet.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deep Dive into Autonomy & Swarming: Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge autonomous behaviors and multi-robot coordination algorithms.

• Specialized UAV Systems Expertise: Become an expert in the intricacies of fixed-wing UAV prototyping, avionics, and flight control systems.

• Regulatory Compliance Knowledge: Develop a strong understanding of SORA and BVLOS requirements, a critical skill in the modern aerospace industry.

• Exposure to AI/ML Workflows: Work alongside AI researchers and engineers, gaining insight into how their algorithms are developed and validated.

• Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques: Hone diagnostic skills on complex electromechanical and networked systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for roles supporting advanced R&D in a rapidly evolving technological field. The growth opportunities are significant, offering a clear path to becoming a subject matter expert in specialized areas of autonomous systems engineering.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for building a new fixed-wing UAV from scratch, focusing on reliability and documentation."

  • Preparation: Outline your step-by-step approach, emphasizing component selection, assembly techniques, wiring best practices, initial configuration, and the documentation required at each stage. Mention your approach to ensuring consistency across multiple builds.

• "Walk me through a challenging troubleshooting scenario you faced with a UAV. What was the root cause, and how did you resolve it?"

  • Preparation: Select a complex issue that required systematic diagnosis. Detail your thought process, the tests you performed, the tools you used, and the final solution. Highlight your analytical skills and problem-solving methodology.

• "How would you configure PX4/ArduPilot for a new fixed-wing airframe for initial flight testing, considering safety and stability?"

  • Preparation: Discuss key parameters you would set, calibration steps, failsafe configuration, and your approach to initial tuning. Emphasize safety checks and gradual envelope expansion.

• "What is your experience with SORA/BVLOS documentation, and how would you contribute technical inputs for these assessments?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you see your role supporting the Data & AI Swarming Team's objectives?"

  • Preparation: Connect your responsibilities (fleet reliability, structured testing) directly to enabling swarming algorithm development and validation.

• "Describe your experience working in a collaborative R&D environment with cross-functional teams."

  • Preparation: Provide examples of successful collaborations and how you navigated technical discussions and integrated feedback.

• "How do you ensure attention to detail and accuracy in your work, especially when documenting complex systems?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Process: For each portfolio item, clearly articulate the problem, your solution/process, the outcome, and what you learned.

• Highlight Documentation: Showcase your documentation skills with clear, well-organized examples of build logs, configuration files, or test reports.

• Demonstrate Troubleshooting Skills: Use case studies to illustrate your diagnostic and problem-solving capabilities.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, present metrics that demonstrate the effectiveness or efficiency of your work.

• Be Prepared to Discuss: Be ready to answer detailed questions about any item in your portfolio, demonstrating a deep understanding of your contributions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of strong technical skills (especially with PX4/ArduPilot), a systematic and documented approach to engineering, and effective collaboration within a fast-paced R&D setting.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autopilots: PX4, ArduPilot (core requirement)

• Ground Control Stations: QGroundControl, Mission Planner (essential for configuration and monitoring)

• CAD Software: Fusion 360, SolidWorks (basic proficiency for modifications)

• 3D Printing: For rapid prototyping of custom parts.

• Soldering Equipment: For all avionics integration and repairs.

• Diagnostic Tools: Multimeters, potentially oscilloscopes, RF analyzers.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Log Analysis Software: For processing and interpreting flight data logs.

• Data Visualization Tools: Potentially used for performance metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management/Documentation: Jira, Confluence (critical for traceability and knowledge management).

• Version Control: Git (likely for software/configuration).

• Scripting Languages: Python, Bash (for automation tasks).

Networking & Communications:

• Telemetry Systems: Experience with various radio links (e.g., SiK, ELRS, Crossfire).

• Networking Components: Routers, switches, IP link management.

• Communication Protocols: MAVLink understanding.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical stack revolves around the PX4/ArduPilot ecosystem, robust documentation practices (Jira/Confluence), and hands-on fabrication skills. Familiarity with scripting and networking will enhance efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Rigor: A commitment to precision in building, configuration, and testing, ensuring the reliability of platforms vital for AI/swarming R&D.

• Collaborative Innovation: Working closely with multiple engineering disciplines to push the boundaries of autonomous systems.

• Continuous Improvement: Proactively identifying and implementing enhancements to processes and fleet performance.

• Data-Driven Validation: Relying on thorough flight testing and log analysis to guide development.

• Accountability: Taking full ownership of the testbed fleet's lifecycle and performance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Seamless interaction with Swarm, AR3, and Flight Liaison teams.

• Iterative Feedback: A dynamic exchange of information to ensure alignment and rapid adaptation.

• Knowledge Sharing: Fostering an environment where best practices are shared to elevate team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes technical excellence, teamwork, and a proactive approach to innovation, all within a structured R&D framework essential for developing advanced autonomous systems.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Scalability & Fleet Management: Maintaining a large, consistent fleet under heavy R&D usage.

• Balancing R&D Agility with Regulatory Rigor: Ensuring test platforms meet standards required for future operational evidence.

• Complex Troubleshooting: Diagnosing issues across integrated hardware, software, and communication systems.

• Adapting to Evolving AI/AR3 Roadmaps: Keeping the testbed fleet synchronized with advanced development goals.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Autonomy & Swarming Expertise: Deepen knowledge in advanced AI-driven autonomous behaviors.

• UAV Systems Specialization: Become a subject matter expert in fixed-wing UAV prototyping and integration.

• Regulatory Compliance Acumen: Gain valuable experience in SORA/BVLOS documentation.

• AI/ML Workflow Exposure: Understand how AI algorithms are developed and validated.

• Advanced Diagnostics: Refine skills in complex electromechanical and networked system troubleshooting.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers substantial growth in specialized areas of autonomous systems engineering, with direct exposure to cutting-edge AI and regulatory requirements.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Detail your process for building and documenting a reliable fixed-wing UAV test platform."

  • Prep: Focus on sequential steps, component integration, wiring standards, initial configuration, and comprehensive documentation practices.

• "Describe a complex UAV troubleshooting scenario you resolved. What was your methodology?"

  • Prep: Use a STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to explain a challenging problem, your systematic diagnosis, and the successful resolution.

• "How would you configure PX4/ArduPilot for a new airframe for safe initial testing?"

  • Prep: Discuss critical parameters, safety checks, calibration, and a phased tuning approach.

• "What is your understanding of SORA/BVLOS requirements, and how can you support compliance documentation?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How does your role support the Data & AI Swarming Team's goals?"

  • Prep: Link fleet reliability and testing to enabling swarming algorithm development and validation.

• "Share an example of successful collaboration with diverse engineering teams."

  • Prep: Illustrate your ability to communicate technical ideas and integrate feedback.

• "How do you ensure accuracy and attention to detail in documentation?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Emphasize Process: Clearly articulate the problem, your methodology, tools used, and outcomes for each project.

• Showcase Documentation: Present clear examples of technical documentation, configuration files, and test reports.

• Use Case Studies for Troubleshooting: Illustrate your diagnostic and problem-solving skills.

• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work.

• Tailor to the Role: Highlight experience with fixed-wing UAVs, PX4/ArduPilot, and systematic engineering practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating technical proficiency, systematic problem-solving, and effective documentation and collaboration skills relevant to advanced R&D in autonomous systems.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this engineering position:

• Submit your application and resume through the Tekever careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a portfolio that clearly showcases your experience in UAV prototyping, fixed-wing assembly, PX4/ArduPilot configuration, and technical documentation. Use case studies to highlight troubleshooting skills and process improvements.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords from the job description, such as "UAV prototyping," "PX4/ArduPilot," "fixed-wing assembly," "avionics integration," "troubleshooting," and "technical documentation." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience with specific examples related to the responsibilities and requirements outlined. Be ready to discuss your approach to building, testing, and documenting UAV systems.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with TEKEVER's mission, products (especially AR3), and recent advancements in AI and swarming technology to demonstrate your interest and understanding of their strategic direction.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.