Flight Test Engineer Scaled Flight Test

Do rapid prototyping, flight control systems and testflying appeal to you? Then this position might be something for you!

Job description

In this project, you will validate a novel hybrid fixed wing unmanned air vehicle (UAV) concept through scaled flight testing. This includes validating blown wing effects during both conventional and vertical take off and landing (VTOL), as well as validating control laws through flight experiments. Working in a team, you will write control software for a scaled UAV, and perform test flights and test flight analysis to verify the control laws, and validate the UAV design. The project scope may also include wind tunnel experiments and component level testing (e.g. obtaining propeller thrust curve).

You will work on:

• Flight control software.
• Performing test flights.
• Test flight analysis.
• Component testing.

You will join the MAVLab at the Control & Simulation department of the Aerospace Engineering faculty at TU Delft. The MAVLab is a dynamic group of enthusiastic researchers with expertise in control, MAV design, and autonomous flight. The lab has a long tradition of developing innovative MAV concepts, including the DelFly, Delftacopter, and Nederdrone, and is internationally recognized for leadership in autonomous drone racing.

Job requirements

This position is perfect for you if you have experience with control systems, programming, and flight dynamics, and when you have experience with drones or other types of hardware. You have autodidactic skills and can independently solve problems. You have a strong research-oriented attitude, good communication skills and are able to work effectively in a team.

You also have:

• An MSc in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering or a related field.
• Experience with programming (preferably C or C++).
• Excellent command of the English language.

Does this position spark excitement in you? If you cannot tick all the boxes but enthusiastic about drones and aerospace, we’d like to get to know you!

Conditions of employment

• Duration of contract is 2 years (temporary).
• An excellent pension scheme via the ABP.
• The possibility to compile an individual employment package every year.
• Discount with health insurers on supplemental packages.
• Flexible working week.
• Plenty of opportunities for education, training and courses.
• Partially paid parental leave.
• Attention for working healthy and energetically with the vitality program.

Faculty Aerospace Engineering

The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is a leading international community where innovation in aerospace meets global challenges. Our support and scientific staff, including PhD candidates, postdocs, and students, largely work together on three main themes: the energy transition, sustainable aerospace, and safety and security, with the aim of tackling climate change and contributing to the independence and security of Europe.

When you join us, you become part of a diverse, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and perspectives are valued. Our work extends beyond the lab—into field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, both locally and globally.