IPT Lead Flight Systems (UAV)

IPT Lead Flight systems (UAV)
Redwire Corporation is a global space and defense technology company building the infrastructure of the future and delivering multi-domain solutions. RedWire Defense Tech specializes in the design, manufacturing, and integration of autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and advanced electro-optical surveillance systems. Our technologies are trusted and deployed across defense, security, civil, and industrial sectors worldwide.
We are seeking a highly experienced and driven Flight Systems Integrated Product Team (IPT) Lead to own and lead the development of all flight-critical avionics and software for the Penguin UAS.
This is a key leadership role responsible for system-level delivery, technical direction, and cross-functional alignment across the full lifecycle—from architecture and development through integration, testing, and flight validation.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead and manage all flight-critical avionics and software development for the Penguin UAS across the aircraft systems.
Oversee development of aircraft-side systems including autopilot and avionics, Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC), Position, Navigation & Timing (PNT), vehicle management, Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) environments, and vehicle software simulation tools.
Define and integrate interfaces between flight systems and ground control systems.
Ensure reliable command-and-control link behavior and failsafe responses.
Collaborate closely with cross-functional engineering teams to drive system architecture, integration, and testing.
Qualifications:
10+ years of experience developing autonomous aircraft or unmanned air systems.
Demonstrated experience deploying embedded software for UAS.
Strong understanding of UAS system and subsystem architectures, and flight-critical software requirements.
Hands-on experience writing firmware or embedded code for physical devices.
Proven ability to lead engineering teams and drive solutions to complex technical challenges.
Experience building a System Integration Lab (SIL) or Hardware Integration Lab (HIL).
Direct experience supporting flight test campaigns and resolving system-level issues.
Good spoken and written English communication skills.
Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, mechatronics, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, systems engineering, or a related technical discipline or equivalent practical experience.