Director of UAV Systems
Destinus
full-time
Posted on:
Location Type: Hybrid
Location: Valkenburg • Netherlands
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Job Level
About the role
- Lead the design, development, and integration of UAV systems from concept to prototype to production
- Optimize aerodynamic performance through wind tunnel testing, CFD, and experimental validation
- Drive structural engineering efforts, including stress analysis, material selection, and weight-balance optimization
- Oversee aircraft systems integration, ensuring flawless alignment between control surfaces, propulsion, avionics, and structures
- Collaborate directly with fabrication and manufacturing teams, bridging the gap between engineering and shop floor execution
- Lead flight test engineering campaigns, from preparation to real-time monitoring and data-driven post-flight analysis
- Push the boundaries of material science, working with metals and composites for lightweight, high-performance designs
- Champion rapid prototyping and agile iteration, transforming ideas into tangible systems under tight timelines
- Ensure the highest standards of safety, reliability, and quality throughout the aircraft development cycle
- Mentor cross-disciplinary teams, fostering collaboration, innovation, and technical excellence
Requirements
- Proven expertise in aerodynamics, wind tunnel testing, and performance optimization
- Strong background in structural engineering with stress analysis and materials experience
- Hands-on skills in aircraft systems design, from core flight systems to advanced control surfaces
- Experience with fabrication, tooling, and manufacturing processes in aerospace environments
- Track record in flight test engineering, including prototype validation and troubleshooting
- Knowledge of materials engineering, particularly metals and composites for aerospace applications
- Ability to lead rapid prototyping and iterative development cycles
- Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related STEM discipline
- Master’s degree preferred, especially with specialization in aerodynamics, propulsion, or materials science
- Solid foundation in advanced mathematics, physics, structural analysis, fluid dynamics, and systems engineering
Benefits
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Applicant Tracking System Keywords
Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.
Hard Skills & Tools
aerodynamicswind tunnel testingperformance optimizationstructural engineeringstress analysismaterials engineeringaircraft systems designflight test engineeringprototype validationfluid dynamics
Soft Skills
leadershipcollaborationmentoringinnovationtechnical excellence
Certifications
Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineeringBachelor’s degree in mechanical engineeringMaster’s degree in aerospace engineeringMaster’s degree in mechanical engineering