UAS Payload and Systems Development Engineer

Job Overview

This job announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 11 December 2025.

OPEN TO CURRENT AFRL CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES ONLY. Resumes are to be limited to two pages in length only.

The Integrated Capabilities Directorate (RS) seeks to hire an assertive, forward-thinking mid-level, DR-02 or DR-03, Engineer for the AFRL Center for Rapid Innovation (AFRL/RSC) at Wright-Patterson AFB, OH.

Join the AFRL Center for Rapid Innovation, developing affordable end-to-end systems directly addressing urgent warfighter needs on an Epoch-1 timescale as an Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Payload and Systems Development Engineer! We are at the forefront of innovation in the UAS sector, developing cutting-edge solutions for urgent operational needs and a variety of applications, including response to Mission Area 1 needs. This exciting role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to the design, development, and integration of low-cost payloads, one-way-attack UAS, and integrated Blue-UAS systems.

As a key member of our engineering team, you will contribute in leading, conceiving, designing, prototyping, testing, and deploying advanced UAS technologies. You will work collaboratively with a team of talented engineers, scientists, and program managers from across USAF, industry, and academia to deliver real-world innovative solutions that meet our customers' demanding requirements. Direct engagement with operational customers is a key element of all programs, which afford unique opportunities for transition and travel for operational assessments for selected programs.

This position offers a unique blend of technical challenges, creative freedom, and the satisfaction of seeing your work directly contribute to real-world applications. If you are passionate about UAS technology and low-cost payloads, possess a strong technical background, and thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, we encourage you to apply!

Position duties may include, but are not limited to:

• Design and Development: Conceptualize, design, and develop low-cost payloads for small UAS, including but not limited to sensors, communication systems, and specialized mission equipment.
• One-Way-Attack UAS Development: Contribute to the design, development, and testing of low-cost, one-way-attack UAS platforms. This includes considerations for aerodynamics, propulsion, guidance, navigation, payload integration, autonomy, and control.
• Program Management: Lead and develop responsive solution-development programs for low-cost payloads and UAS.
• Blue UAS Integration: Integrate and test existing Blue UAS systems with new payloads and capabilities, ensuring seamless operation and compliance with relevant regulations.
• Prototyping and Testing: Build and test prototypes of payload and UAS systems, including ground testing, flight testing, and performance evaluation.
• System Integration: Integrate various subsystems, including power systems, communication systems, navigation systems, and control systems.
• Performance Analysis: Conduct performance analysis of UAS systems and payloads, identifying areas for improvement and optimization.
• Documentation: Prepare detailed technical documentation, including design specifications, test plans, and performance reports.
• Customer Engagement: Collaborate effectively with other operational partner organizations to achieve project goals. Collaborate with PEO engineers, scientists, and program managers
• Problem-Solving: Identify and resolve technical issues related to UAS design, development, and integration. Rapidly leverage AFRL corporate expertise to rapidly diagnose and solve problems.
  
  

Telework

Yes, this position is eligible for telework opportunities; as determined by agency policy

Eligible for a Referral Bonus?

No

Required Qualifications

• United States Citizenship
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
• This is a drug testing designated position.
• A bachelor's degree in applicable engineering discipline. To be acceptable, the program must: (1) lead to a bachelor’s degree in a school of engineering with at least one program accredited by ABET; or (2) include differential and integral calculus and courses (more advanced than first-year physics and chemistry) in five of the following seven areas of engineering science or physics: (a) statics, dynamics; (b) strength of materials (stress-strain relationships); (c) fluid mechanics, hydraulics; (d) thermodynamics; (e) electrical fields and circuits; (f) nature and properties of materials (relating particle and aggregate structure to properties); and (g) any other comparable area of fundamental engineering science or physics, such as optics, heat transfer, soil mechanics, or electronics.
• Must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade (DR-01/GS-11 for DR-02 or DR-02/GS-13 for DR-03), or equivalent in other pay systems.
  
  

Desired Qualifications

Experience in the following areas:

• Payload/sensor/communications system development and testing
• Radio frequency systems
• Electronic warfare/electronic attack systems
• UAS propulsion
• UAS development and testing
  
  

Requisition Number 91261

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