New Product Introduction Engineer

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced NPI & Production Engineer to lead the transition of UAV products from development to full-scale production.

Introduce and continue supporting products in a professional, cost-effective and timely manner from concept through prototype, qualification, pre and full production stages, controlling configuration throughout and ensuring productivity targets for stable manufacturing are met. Supporting Quality, Commercial, Engineering, Projects and Operations teams with engineering excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead New Product Introduction (NPI) processes from prototype to serial production
• Collaborate with R&D, Design, and System Engineering teams to ensure Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Serviceability
• Develop and implement manufacturing processes, work instructions, and production documentation
• Support tooling design, test equipment, and production line setup
• Drive process validation and first article inspections (FAI)
• Identify and resolve production issues, root cause analysis, and corrective actions (CAPA)
• Manage Engineering Change Orders (ECO) and ensure smooth implementation in production
• Work closely with suppliers to ensure component quality and availability
• Improve production efficiency through lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives
• Support integration, testing, and troubleshooting of UAV systems (mechanical, electrical, and embedded systems)
• Ensure compliance with quality standards and regulatory requirements

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Practical Engineering degree in Mechanical or Electrical disciplines, or related field
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in NPI and/or Production engineering, preferably in UAV, aerospace, or defence industries
• Hands-on experience with UAV systems, drones, or aerospace assemblies
• Strong understanding of:
• Mechanical assemblies (composites, structures, precision parts)
• Electrical systems (wiring, harnessing, PCB integration)
• System integration and testing
• Experience with PLM/ERP systems (e.g., Teamcenter, Priority, SAP)
• Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks)
• Proficiency in English (verbal and written)

Preferred Qualifications and Experience

• Experience in UAV platforms, preference to VTOL and/or Fixed-Wing systems
• Familiarity with flight testing, ground control systems, and payload integration
• Knowledge of aerospace standards (e.g. ISO9001, AS9100)
• Experience in military or commercial UAV programs
• Experience with composite materials and lightweight structures
• Background in electronics manufacturing or embedded systems
• Experience working in high-mix, low-volume production environments

Key Skills and Personal Attributes

• Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking
• Excellent cross-functional collaboration
• Ability to work in fast-paced, startup or scale-up environments
• Hands-on, “can-do” attitude
• Strong communication and documentation skills