Hardware and Electronics Engineer (Robotics and UAVs)

Svitla Systems Inc. is looking for a Hardware and Electronics Engineer (Robotics and UAVs) for a full-time position (40 hours per week) in Europe. Our client is a technology startup focused on AI-driven navigation and positioning solutions for autonomous systems operating in complex and connectivity-constrained environments. Its core product combines modular hardware and AI-powered software to improve the reliability and accuracy of navigation across different types of autonomous platforms, especially in situations where conventional positioning methods may be limited or unavailable. This is an opportunity to join a highly motivated team solving complex and technically challenging problems that require strong engineering, creativity, and experimentation.

You will design PCB and mechanical solutions that withstand demanding environments and can be manufactured at scale, own production quality end to end, and work closely with the software team on hardware and software integration for real-time data processing and control. The role suits a self-driven engineer with a continuous-learning mindset who uses LLM assistants and other automation to increase efficiency.

The role requires working from the Lisbon office a few times a week.

Requirements

• Continuous learning and a growth mindset, with the ability to research and solve problems independently.
• Track record of successfully developing products.
• Intermediate level of PCB design, assembly, and validation.
• Basic-to-intermediate level of CAD design.
• Experience with R&D lab tools (3D printers, soldering, electronics and PCB assembly, and test tools, VNAs).
• Experience diagnosing and solving hardware-related issues.
• Programming experience in C/C++ and Python.

Will be a plus

• Experience integrating various sensors (e.g., GPS, IMU, LiDAR, cameras).
• Good knowledge of different kinds of interfaces (UART, USB, SPI, I2C, I2S, CAN, etc.).
• Experience with ArduPilot for UAVs and the MAVLink communication protocol.
• Experience with Linux and the command line.
• Experience with UAVs, robotics, or RC piloting.
• Manufacturing experience: transitioning products from R&D to manufacturing, working with manufacturing QA/QC processes, and using PLM software.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D and integration of hardware components designed for UAV platforms.
• Move products from early concept to manufacturing, delivery, support, and maintenance.
• Design products that are both durable and easy to manufacture at scale.
• Create and validate reliable PCB solutions that operate in demanding environments, with proven protection against EMI, RFI, temperature swings, and vibration.
• Create robust mechanical solutions using CAD tools, with emphasis on thermal management, structural integrity, and vibration resistance.
• Manage end-to-end production quality, from creating clear assembly guides to implementing QA/QC protocols and coordinating with suppliers.
• Lead system reliability and QA/QC processes during R&D and manufacturing.
• Perform outdoor field tests.
• Work closely with the software team to ensure hardware and software integration for real-time data processing and control.
• Use LLM assistants and other automation tools to significantly increase efficiency.