Hardware Engineer – Avionics & Embedded Systems

About the role

We are an innovative OEM in Wiltshire developing advanced Uncrewed Aerial Systems. The role involves full ownership of schematic and multi‑layer PCB design, prototype bring‑up and environmental qualification for safety‑critical flight control and sensor payload electronics.

Key responsibilities

• Create multi‑layer rigid and flex‑rigid PCBs using Altium Designer for flight control computers, PDUs and sensor interfaces.
• Implement low‑latency avionics bus architectures (CAN/CAN FD, RS422, RS485, Ethernet, SPI, I2C).
• Design low‑voltage DC‑DC converters and switching regulators optimized for weight, thermal dissipation and efficiency.
• Lead prototype board bring‑up, fault isolation and hardware‑in‑the‑loop bench testing.
• Ensure designs meet RTCA DO‑160G, DEF‑STAN 59‑411 and MIL‑STD‑810 environmental and EMC standards.
• Produce technical documentation (ICDs, DFMEA, BOMs, Gerbers) under ISO 9001/AS9100 frameworks.

Required profile

• Degree in Electronic, Electrical or Mechatronic Engineering.
• Ability to obtain and maintain UK Security Clearance (SC) or be SC‑eligible.

Required skills

• Advanced proficiency with Altium Designer (schematic capture, high‑speed multilayer layout, controlled impedance, DRC).
• Experience with ARM Cortex‑M microcontrollers, particularly STM32 series.
• Knowledge of CAN, CAN FD, RS422, RS485, Ethernet, SPI and I2C bus protocols.
• Design of DC‑DC converters and switching regulator power circuits.
• Hands‑on test and measurement skills, including electronic diagnostics, soldering and bench‑test automation using Python or LabVIEW.
• Optional FPGA integration experience with Xilinx or Altera devices.