Unmanned Systems Engineer

Iron EagleX (IEX), a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics Information Technology, delivers agile IT and Intelligence solutions. Combining small-team flexibility with global scale, IEX leverages emerging technologies to provide innovative, user-focused solutions that empower organizations and end users to operate smarter, faster, and more securely in dynamic environments.

Iron EagleX is seeking a highly skilled Unmanned Systems Engineer to support the development, integration, and fielding of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in support of national security and defense missions. This role will focus on Group 1 and Group 2 drone platforms and will require advanced knowledge of distributed systems, onboard compute integration, and mission planning software. The ideal candidate will be adept in both software and hardware integration for small UAS platforms, working closely with cross-functional engineering teams to deliver innovative and secure unmanned systems.

Responsibilities:

Lead the engineering and integration of Group 1 and 2 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for defense and ISR missions.
• Design and implement hardware and software solutions for drone payloads, sensors, and onboard compute platforms.
• Develop and test communication interfaces between distributed drone subsystems.
• Integrate autonomous and semi-autonomous capabilities into existing drone architectures.
• Collaborate with mission planners and ground control station developers to ensure interoperability and end-to-end mission execution.
• Support flight testing, data collection, diagnostics, and system tuning.
• Participate in the prototyping and fielding of next-generation UAS capabilities.
• Contribute to the development of documentation, system diagrams, interface control documents (ICDs), and integration guides.

Job Duties Include (but not limited to):

• Engineer drone subsystems including navigation, payload control, telemetry, and power management.
• Implement onboard compute systems using platforms such as NVIDIA Jetson, Intel NUC, or similar embedded computing environments.
• Perform hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and software-in-the-loop (SIL) simulation and validation.
• Support integration of drones with secure networks and tactical edge systems.
• Assist in compliance testing to meet DoD airworthiness and security standards.
• Troubleshoot field issues and provide engineering support during mission operations.
• Interface with government stakeholders to define system requirements and performance benchmarks.

Required Skills & Experience:

• 5+ years of experience in UAS engineering with focus on Group 1 and Group 2 platforms.
• Hands-on experience with drone systems integration, onboard compute, and hardware/software troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with common GCS (Ground Control Station) and mission planning tools such as QGroundControl, Mission Planner, or proprietary DoD systems.
• Proficiency in integrating sensors, communications, and processing into compact drone platforms.
• Knowledge of distributed systems and secure communication protocols.
• Experience with flight test procedures and FAA/DoD regulatory compliance.
• Due to US Government Contract Requirements, only US Citizens are eligible for this role.

Desired:

• Master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
• Experience with open-source flight stacks such as PX4 or ArduPilot.
• Familiarity with C2 interoperability standards (e.g., STANAG 4586, MAVLink).
• Exposure to AI/ML-enabled perception or autonomy in UAS applications.
• Experience with ruggedization and environmental hardening for operational deployment.

Education & Certifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field.

Security Clearance:

• Active Secret Clearance required at time of hire. Interim Secret may be acceptable. Must be eligible for Top Secret clearance and SCI access based on program requirements.

Benefits:

• National health, vision, and dental plans
• 20 days of PTO and 11 paid holidays
• Life Insurance
• Short- and long-term disability plans
• 401(K) retirement plan
• Incentive and recognition programs
• Relocation opportunities

Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans