Leonardo
Autonomy Technologist
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Autonomy Technologist
Salary Range: £53,000 to £53,000
Leonardo UK applies a grade-based salary framework, with broad bands and standard hierarchical pay structures. The salary range represents the approved band or a narrower hiring range within that band, benchmarked against external market standards. Exceptions above the standard range are managed to ensure internal equity.
About the Role
Are you passionate about shaping the future of autonomous Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) systems? Leonardo, the Home of British Helicopters, is recruiting an Autonomy Technologist at its Yeovil site with remote working options.
As an Autonomy Technologist, you’ll join our Technology and Innovation UK group, responsible for setting and delivering future pathways for our UK business in collaboration with a global network of technologists.
Our Autonomy programme focuses on refining and deploying crewed, uncrewed, and crewed-uncrewed teaming systems—enabling greater operational independence from take-off to landing. You’ll engage with an international Autonomy team, working across the UK and Italy.
The iAero Innovation Centre offers a cutting-edge, collaborative environment designed exclusively for innovation and space exploration. The team is committed to shaping the future and operates with an inclusive, supporting ethos.
What You’ll Do
As an Autonomy Technologist, your key responsibilities will include:
- Proposing and prioritising Autonomy functions that enhance air vehicle and mission performance, helping reduce operator workload.
- Defining and setting requirements for Autonomy systems to improve mission effectiveness.
- Staying ahead of the latest developments in autonomy technology, sharing insights across the organisation.
- Initiating and managing new autonomy projects—both independently and collaboratively with teams across the UK, Italy, EU, and international markets.
- Supporting the development of Autonomy software applications, testing innovations in national-level synthetic environments and subscale demonstrators.
- Collaborating with colleagues in the UK and Italy to implement cross-geographical project work.
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What You’ll Bring
We’re looking for an innovative thinks outside-the-box technologist with the following qualifications:
- A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Robotics, Aerospace Engineering, Electronics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), or Mechatronics.
- *(Note: PhDs and BEngs with equivalent experience are welcomed.)
- Programming expertise in languages commonly used for robotics and autonomous systems, such as Python, C, C++, and MATLAB/Simulink.
- Experience with embedded computing platforms (e.g., NVIDIA Jetson, Intel UP boards).
- Familiarity with robotics and autonomy simulation tools like Gazebo, AirSim, Unreal Engine, Unity, or Isaac Sim.
- An inquisitive, problem-solving mindset, comfortable with uncertainty and ambiguity in the R&D process.
- An ability to collaborate effectively in both remote and in-person team environments.
- Willingness to engage in national and international travel as required.
While this list provides a strong technical foundation, we’ll prioritise attitude and adaptability. If you have a passion for autonomy and technology, we encourage you to apply—even if your experience isn’t a direct match.
Security Clearance Requirement
This position requires applicants to undergo National Security Vetting to SC (Security Check) level. A successful candidate will need to meet the eligibility standards for clearances and maintain compliance with Personnel Security Controls. For additional details, visit Leonardo’s security and vetting page.
Why Join Leonardo?
At Leonardo, our people are the core of our success. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including flexible working, professional development, and enhanced wellbeing support.
Your Rewards & Benefits:
- Generous Leave: Enjoy 28 days’ annual leave plus the option to accrue up to 12 additional flexi-days annually.
- Secure Future: Benefit from our award-winning pension scheme, which includes an employer contribution of up to 15%.
- Prioritising Wellbeing:
- Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee-led networks (Enable, Pride, Equalise, Armed Forces, Carers, Wellbeing, and Ethnicity).
- $500 yearly flexible benefits for custom perks, including private health insurance, dental cover, family support, tech and lifestyle discounts, and gym memberships.
- Rewarding Performance: Check if you qualify for our annual bonus scheme.
- Never Stop Learning: Free access to 4,000+ online courses (via Coursera, LinkedIn Learning).
- Got Connections? Refer a friend and earn a financial reward—we’re happy to help you share your network!
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Check out Leonardo’s website for further benefits information.
Who We Are
Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security with over 53,000 employees worldwide, including 8,500 in our UK arm, across nine strategic sites.
Our mission: to pioneer innovation, advance technology, and improve global safety. Together, we don’t just contribute—we create the future.
What We Stand For
Leonardo is building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace because diverse perspectives drive creativity and forefront innovation. Our forward-thinking culture empowers better teamwork, enriching our employee and customer success alike.
If you require accessibility adjustments to assist during the recruitment process, please let us know—we will ensure support is readily available.
Be part of something groundbreaking—apply now!
Location:
GB – Yeovil, at the Lysander Road Innovation Centre
Contract Type:
Permanent
Working Flexibility:
Hybrid
Get ready to make an impact. Join Leonardo’s Autonomy Trailblazers today!
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