Chief UAV Systems Scientist

About the Role

EDTECH4D - JOBSKILLSHARE is seeking a Chief UAV Systems Scientist to lead multidisciplinary research and development programs. This full-time position is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and focuses on advanced UAV platforms, including long-range UAVs (1,000+ km), loitering munitions, and vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) systems. The role requires an experienced technical leader with a proven track record in managing aerospace or defense programs and guiding teams through the entire program lifecycle.

Program Leadership and Strategy

The Chief UAV Systems Scientist will be responsible for defining strategic direction and ensuring successful execution of UAV programs. This includes establishing program priorities, developing comprehensive roadmaps, and setting clear delivery milestones across the assigned UAV portfolio. The role involves overseeing all aspects of program management, from initial concept to final deployment.

Key Responsibilities

• Set program priorities, development roadmaps, and delivery milestones across the assigned UAV portfolio.
• Lead and mentor multidisciplinary engineering and research teams.
• Coordinate program requirements, technical reviews, documentation, and cross-functional activities.
• Oversee program schedules, budgets, resources, quality, and risk management.
• Coordinate testing, certification, and readiness reviews with relevant teams and authorities.
• Manage collaboration with suppliers, research partners, and internal stakeholders.
• Ensure adherence to applicable aviation, safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications and Experience

Candidates for this position must possess over 10 years of experience in a relevant field. The role requires a strong background in leading complex aerospace or defense programs, with a demonstrated ability to guide technical teams through all phases of program development and execution. Expertise in UAV systems, particularly long-range, loitering munitions, and VTOL platforms, is essential.

Technical Leadership and Team Management

This role demands a leader who can effectively mentor and guide multidisciplinary engineering and research teams. The successful candidate will be adept at coordinating complex technical requirements, conducting thorough reviews, and managing cross-functional activities to ensure program success. Strong organizational skills are necessary to manage schedules, budgets, and resources while maintaining high standards of quality and risk management.

Compliance and Stakeholder Engagement

The Chief UAV Systems Scientist will ensure all programs comply with aviation, safety, quality, and regulatory requirements. This includes coordinating with external authorities for testing and certification. Effective collaboration with suppliers, research partners, and internal stakeholders is also a key aspect of this role, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills.