UAS Technology Demonstrator Manager

Job Description:

Airbus Helicopters is looking for a UAS Technology Demonstrator Manager (f/m) based in Getafe (Madrid metropolitan area) or Albacete. We are looking for passionate individuals to join a cross-divisional project that will shape the future of autonomous flight for UAS (Uncrewed Aerial Systems).

The position is functionally attached to the Head of Engineering Spain and reports operationally to the Research and Innovation Leader in Spain.

Your working environment:

You will be based in Getafe, Airbus’s third-largest site globally, or Albacete, Airbus Helicopters' headquarters in Spain. Airbus Helicopters is the world’s leading manufacturer of civil helicopters and a pioneer in the military market. In Spain, with our footprint in Albacete and Getafe, we are fueling our growth with innovation and industrial excellence. You will collaborate closely with various Engineering departments, the Research & Technology Program, and the UAS Program.

Your challenges:

• Demonstrator Lifecycle Management: Lead the end-to-end development of UAS demonstrators, from initial conceptualization and platform selection to final flight validation and data analysis.

• Platform Modification & Integration: Lead the mechanical and electrical integration of novel sensors (EO/IR, Radar, EW) and communication links, coordinating closely with the Design Offices. Leverage COTS customization and rapid fabrication.

• Flight & Ground Test Orchestration: Plan, organize, and execute comprehensive test campaigns, bridging the gap between "lab-ready" algorithms and "flight-ready" products, including high-complexity trials for Air-Launched Effects (ALE), multi-UAV Swarming, and Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T).

• Technology Maturation: Define and execute plans to move technologies from laboratory settings (TRL 4) to flight-representative environments (TRL 7). Drive the transition into formal R&D programs, ensuring that every Proof of Concept (PoC) feeds into the AH technological roadmap.

• Stakeholder Management: Act as the primary strategic interface between the cross-divisional project team and AH functions (Flight Test Engineering, Airworthiness, Programs, Industrial) to ensure resource availability and alignment.

• Operational Agility: Navigate complex industrial processes with a "startup" mindset, optimizing lead times for aircraft modifications and resolving technical bottlenecks.

• Mission Safety & Compliance: Partner with Quality and Airworthiness engineers to define the regulatory pathway and operational envelope for uncrewed tests, ensuring all demonstrations are conducted with managed risk.

Your profile:

• Education: Degree in Aeronautical or Aerospace Engineering. Additional specialization or a Master's in Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS)/RPAS is highly valued.

• Professional Experience: At least 5 years of experience in the aerospace industry, with at least 3 years specifically in a UAS/Drone company or a dedicated autonomous systems startup.

• Demonstrator Experience: Proven hands-on experience with physical prototypes and rapid prototyping cycles. Previous experience with Air-Launched Effects (ALE), multi-UAV Swarming, or MUM-T is a significant advantage.

• Technical Expertise: Deep familiarity with UAS architectures, ground control stations, and uncrewed flight operations. You should be comfortable with the specific challenges of BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) and autonomous mission planning.

• Regulatory Expertise: Good knowledge of the EASA regulatory framework for UAS (Open, Specific, and Certified categories) and experience applying SORA/SAIL methodologies for experimental flight testing.

• Innovation Mindset: A "burning desire" to bring order to chaos in ambiguous R&D spaces, combined with the resilience to navigate high-speed, agile engineering cycles.

• Strategic Communication: Ability to translate complex technical status and systems-thinking trade-offs into high-level milestones for Engineering and Programs management.

• Language: Native or Negotiation level Spanish and Fluency in English.

• Travel: Availability to travel sporadically at a national and European level in line with flight testing plans.

This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company’s success, reputation and sustainable growth.

Company:

Airbus Helicopters España, SA

Employment Type:

Permanent

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Experience Level:

Professional

Job Family:

Research and Technology

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