UAS Field Engineer

COLSA Corporation

UAS Field Engineer

Raleigh, NC +2 locations
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    We are seeking a UAS Engineer to provide on-site technical expertise in support of commercial and military unmanned aircraft systems and contribute directly to system integration, upgrades, and performance validation while collaborating with cross-functional teams to solve complex technical challenges.

    • Provide on-site technical engineering support for commercial and military UAS platforms, ensuring operational readiness and compliance.

    • Lead and assist with daily operations, including mission planning, system monitoring, and data collection for performance evaluation.

    • Perform upgrades, complex troubleshooting, and preventative maintenance on airframes, avionics, propulsion systems, and payloads, recommending design or process improvements.

    • Manage the identification, procurement, and tracking of repair parts and consumables, coordinating with logistics and supply chain teams.

    • Install, configure, and integrate replacement parts, sensors, and payloads on UAS platforms, validating performance through system testing.

    • Support flight operations through technical oversight of pre-/post-flight inspections, readiness checks, and corrective action planning.

    • Conduct system testing, validation, and hardware/software integration activities, providing feedback to design engineers.

    • Prepare and maintain detailed technical documentation (flight logs, maintenance records, test results, and integration reports).

    • Collaborate with engineering, logistics, and operations teams to resolve field issues, recommend technical solutions, and implement system improvements.

    _At COLSA, people are our most valuable resource and centered at our core value. We invite you to unite your talents with opportunity and be a part of our “Family of Professionals!” Learn about our employee-centric culture and benefitshere. _

    Required Skills

    Required Experience

    Required Qualifications

    • High school diploma or equivalent experience
    • Working knowledge of desktop applications including word processing, spreadsheet, and database programs.
    • Relevant UAS, aerospace, or engineering experience required
    • Knowledge and hands on experience with UAS platforms Group 1 and 2
    • Proven experience with quadcopter and multirotor drone design, assembly, and tuning.
    • Expertise in lightweight airframe design using 3D printed components (LW-PLA) with a focus on structural optimization and weight reduction
    • Experience in power generation system design using Field Oriented Control (FOC) techniques.
    • Extensive hands-on experience with 3D printing for rapid prototyping and functional component design.
    • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance within 6 months of hire; US Citizenship required
    • May require CONUS and/or OCONUS travel to customer sites up to 10%

    Preferred Qualifications

    • Autonomous flight integration and parameter optimization using platforms such as Ardupilot.
    • Demonstrated success in extending UAV endurance through propulsion, battery, and flight profile enhancements.
    • Proficient in C++ development for embedded microcontrollers including ESP32, Teensy, and Arduino platforms.
    • Skilled in parametric CAD modeling
    • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate holder.

    Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. COLSA Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin

  • Qualifications
    • Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-production environment
    • Capable of building successful team relationships with foundation of trust and respect, and maintaining positive coworker relationships
    • Ability to motivate and inspire others
    • Demonstrate organized practices
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
    • Self-starter with full ability to operate independently with substantial autonomy
    • Proficient in Microsoft Office
  • Locations
    Raleigh, NC • Charlotte, NC • Asheville, NC