Systems Integration and Test Engineer

Job Description

The Virginia Tech Mid Atlantic Aviation Partnership (MAAP) plays a crucial role in advancing UAS integration into the airspace and adoption by industry. MAAP serves as an FAA designated UAS Test Site and leads the FAA Beyond Program. Through its research and testing, MAAP conducts first‑of‑its‑kind advanced UAS operations and has pioneered risk‑based safety case development that is becoming an industry standard.

All staff enjoy the university’s benefits package and the many advantages of living in Blacksburg, Virginia.

MAAP is seeking a qualified Systems Integration and Test Engineer to support uncrewed aerial system (UAS) and Counter‑UAS (C‑UAS) research. The role includes preparing and executing UAS research tests, serving as a technical expert, integrating complex systems, developing test procedures and instrumentation, conducting tests, and reporting results. The engineer will support diverse tasks related to UAS and C‑UAS research and will report to the MAAP Chief Engineer.

• Advanced degree or Bachelor’s degree in engineering, engineering technology, aviation, or a closely related technical field (exception for significant relevant experience).
• Experience with engineering research and/or flight testing, preferably related to C‑UAS systems.
• Experience with computer hardware, software, and/or networking.
• Good communication skills.
• Position is restricted to a U.S. Citizen.
• Must have a good driving record, be able to lift/move/carry equipment over 25 pounds, and work outdoors, across uneven terrain, walking, standing, stooping, and bending.

• Aviation and/or UAS experience.
• Experience with C‑UAS systems.
• Experience with Ardupilot, Arducopter, and/or PX4 software.
• UAS design and construction experience.
• Software and programming experience (Python, MAVLink, multi‑threaded programming, ROS, etc.).
• Proficient remote pilot and/or manual fixed‑wing RC flying skills.
• Experience with aviation safety.

Exempt:
Not eligible for overtime.

Restricted.

$70,304 – $105,456; commensurate with experience.

40.

June 22, 2026.

• Due to restrictions on the funded projects, position is restricted to a U.S. Citizen.
• The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Erin Poff f during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.