Remote Unmanned Systems Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Unmanned Aircraft Systems Data Integration Engineer to join our team in Solana Beach, CA.  This position is onsite.

The Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Data Integration Engineer will leverage their strong technical background and knowledge to bridge the gap between heavy-lift tactical field operations, advanced remote sensing, and aerospace systems engineering.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Serving as Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) under FAA Part 107 for multirotor and fixed-wing UAS platforms up to 55 lbs, leading complex field logistics in rugged terrain

• Directly managing, configuring, and maintaining heavy-lift systems, specifically Harris Aerial Hybrid platforms built on the ArduPilot / Cube autopilot ecosystem

• Integrating, calibrating, and operating complex payload suites including LiDAR, Hyperspectral, Multispectral, and RGB video/imagery

• Building, maintaining, and automating processing pipelines using Python, C/C++, Java, and SQL to convert raw sensor captures into analytical outputs

• Utilizing Matlab/Simulink, STK, and FreeFlyer to model, simulate, and optimize flight dynamics and mission trajectories

• Applying SysML/UML principles using model-based systems engineering (MBSE) tools such as Magic Draw / Cameo to architect complex UAS and sensor architectures

• Conduct structural, thermal, or fluid dynamics analysis using the ANSYS suite and designing custom integration hardware using CAD software

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma/GED with 7+ years of progressively responsible experience in unmanned aviation, systems integration, or aerospace engineering fields

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate with documented experience operating multirotor or fixed-wing UAS up to 55 lbs

• Hands-on experience with ArduPilot firmware, Mission Planner or QGroundControl, and open-source hardware, ex., Cube or Pixhawk architectures

• Experience writing code in software engineering languages such as:  Python, C or C++, alongside practical exposure to Java and SQL

• Experience modeling, simulating, or analyzing aerospace systems using Matlab/Simulink, STK, FreeFlyer, SysML/UML tools, or other tools in the ANSYS suite

• Proven engineering experience manipulating and processing data from LiDAR, Hyperspectral, or Multispectral instruments

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP certification) or equivalent technical systems certification

• Prior service in the U.S. Armed Forces, specifically within unmanned aviation, geospatial intelligence, or technical engineering branches

• Self-starter with excellent people skills - able to work across teams, manage field logistics, and drive technical engineering solutions

Clearance Requirements:

• Must be a US citizen and be able to obtain and maintain a DOD Secret clearance

Physical Requirements:

• The person in this position must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time. Occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, or to communicate with co-workers, management, and customers, via email, phone, or virtual communication, which may involve delivering presentations

• Ability to lift and transport heavy field equipment up to 50 lbs and willingness to travel up to 25% for remote deployments