Adept:us
Principal Avionics Engineer
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Principal Avionics Engineer / Head of Avionics Engineering
Location: Wiltshire-based (Aerospace & Defence sector) Recruiter: Adeptus Talent
The Principal Avionics Engineer / Head of Avionics Engineering leads the avionics and electrical engineering function, overseeing a high-performing team from product concept and TRL maturation through to production handover. This role ensures technical delivery, resource management, process improvements, regulatory compliance, budgeting, scheduling, configuration management, and full documentation of electrical and avionics systems.
About the Role
- Direct a multi-disciplinary team across the full product lifecycle (concept → TRL maturation → production handover)
- Accountable for technical delivery, resource allocation, process optimization, regulatory adherence, budgeting, and vendor management
- Drive electrical and avionics hardware development with adherence to defence and aerospace standards
Essential Requirements
- Qualification: Degree, HND, or HNC in an engineering discipline
- Technical Leadership: Proven ability to lead multiple concurrent product design and prototyping teams
- Rapid Development: Experience in fail-fast environments with rapid iteration
- Platform Expertise:
- ArduPilot and CubePilot hardware development
- Deep understanding of flight dynamics, autopilot systems, and PID controller tuning
- Embedded Systems:
- Embedded C/C++ development
- RTOS (Real-Time Operating Systems) experience
- Software & Tools:
- Proficiency with UNIX-based operating systems and Git version control
- Debugging expertise in ARM architecture architectures and embedded tools
- Electronics Design:
- Hands-on experience with analogue and digital electronics (signal conditioning, filter design)
- Ability to interpret schematics and datasheets while designing and validating systems
- Communication Protocols:
- SPI, I2C, CAN, RS232/RS485, TCP/IP knowledge base
- Problem-Solving: Self-motivated to tackle complex technical challenges independently
- Regulatory Compliance:
- Strong grasp of CE electronic product requirements
- Adherence to HSE (Health, Safety & Environment) standards
- Management Skills: Understanding of project management principles, Agile/Scrum frameworks, and budget oversight
- Admin & Collaboration: Microsoft Office proficiency
- Legal & Security:
- Right to work in the UK
- Ability to obtain and maintain UK Security Vetting (permanent status)
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Desirable Requirements
- Chartered Engineer (CEng) status or membership of a recognised engineering institution
- Skills in:
- Python scripting
- PX4 autopilot framework
- Simulation: Familiarity with MATLAB/Simulink and Gazebo for testing and validation
- Experience with React for frontend tools (if applicable)
This is a high-impact role within a defence technology leader. Get in touch today to explore opportunities! 🚀
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