Senior Drone Systems Engineer

WORK LOCATION: Ottawa, Canada
SALARY RANGE: The anticipated salary range for this role is $120,000 CAD to $150,000 CAD annually. This range reflects a good faith estimate based on the targeted level for the role and typical compensation benchmarks across Canada locations. Actual compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate's qualifications, experience, geographical location and internal alignment

ABOUT EDGE AUTONOMY

Edge Autonomy is a recognized leader across Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, power solutions, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance solutions through leading-edge technologies. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and excellence. Our expertise in these areas allows us to deliver advanced, reliable, and effective solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients. At Edge, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and dynamic environment where creativity and technical prowess converge to solve some of the industry's most complex challenges. 

SUMMARY

We are seeking a skilled and experienced UAS/Drone Systems Engineer to join a growing team tasked with the design, development, and integration of FPV systems, including new FPV drones and an FPV relay system for optional payloads on the VXE-30 platform. This role requires full-scope engineering skills, encompassing software configuration, electrical design, and communication systems. The ideal candidate will have experience selecting and designing integrated circuits, programming microcontrollers and single-board computers, advanced Linux experience, and IP network configuration with extensive hands-on experience in UAS and/or FPV systems through building and flying FPV drones, professionally or as a hobby. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge technology in the Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) space. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties.

• Design and Development: End-to-end design of FPV systems, including drones and FPV relay systems for use as optional payloads on the VXE-30. 
• Software Integration: Configure and tune flight control software (e.g., Betaflight, iNav, ArduPilot) to ensure optimal performance and reliability in FPV platforms. 
• System Integration: Integrate frames, motors, flight-control boards, electronic speed controllers (ESCs), batteries, and EMI shielding solutions for robust FPV systems. 
• Electrical Systems: Perform soldering, wiring, and troubleshooting using diagnostic tools like oscilloscopes to ensure proper electrical system functionality. 
• Onboard Compute: Configure and program on-board single-board Linux computers for advanced functionality, employing open-source software tools and developing proprietary programs as necessary. 
• Communication Systems: Design and implement comms and IP networking solutions for real-time video transmission and control link reliability in diverse environments. 
• Testing and Validation: Build, test, and fly FPV systems, performing flight tests to validate performance, reliability, and mission readiness. 
• Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of FPV systems with larger platforms, including the VXE-30. 
• Documentation: Develop and maintain detailed documentation for FPV system designs, configurations, and testing procedures to support production and operational deployment. 
• Mentorship: Provide guidance to junior engineers and technicians, fostering a collaborative environment and sharing best practices. 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in engineering  (Electrical, Computer, Aerospace, or Systems) or a related field. 
• Maintain or have ability to obtain a Top-Secret Clearance. 
• At least 5 years hands-on experience with UAS system design, build, and flight integration.  
• Proficiency in configuring and tuning flight control software for FPV drones (e.g., Betaflight, iNav, ArduPilot).  
• Electrical engineering expertise, including board-level circuit design and utilizing rapid prototyping services, high-reliability wiring and connectorization and the use of diagnostic tools like oscilloscopes 
• Computer engineering experience, including configuring and programming single-board computers (Jetson, etc.) using Linux and open-source and proprietary software tools 
• Knowledge of IP networking and communication systems such as CRSF, ELRS, and SBUS control protocols, and FPV video transmissions.  
• Proven track record of delivering reliable UAS systems for operational or commercial use.  
• System-level engineering experience, integrating software, mechanical, and electrical components.  
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills, with a focus on delivering practical, high-performance solutions.  
• Excellent organizational and documentation skills, with the ability to clearly communicate technical details to stakeholders.  
• Effective collaboration and interpersonal skills for working with cross-functional teams.  

EDGE AUTONOMY BENEFITS

• Matching RRSP Contributions
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with competitive employer contribution
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays

HIRING REQUIREMENTS

If an offer of employment is extended, the applicant must have the ability to pass a background check and the ability to be insured by the Company's Auto-policy. An Offer of Employment is contingent upon the results.

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). Candidate must have the ability to obtain a Top-Secret Clearance. 

EDGE AUTONOMY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Edge Autonomy is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact