Control & Flight Test Engineer
You want to help build Europe’s resilience? You want to protect people and critical infrastructure – ultimately saving the lives of thousands?You want to work at the frontier of high-performance autonomous systems?Join us at CDDS to bring next-generation of control, state-estimation and computer cision algorithms into high-speed kinetic interceptor drones.CDDS specializes in developing low-collateral kinetic interceptors designed to neutralize malicious drones (Mavics, FPV racers and fast fixed wings). Our solutions are built for precision and safety, minimizing risk to surroundings while effectively countering unauthorized or threatening unmanned aerial systems. We work at the cutting edge of counter-drone technology, delivering reliable protection for critical assets and environments.TasksYour MissionWe are looking for an exceptional Control & Flight Test Engineer to drive the control, vision, hardware and operational stack of our interceptor drone platform to the next level. You will test, tune and develop state-estimation, control and vision algorithms that directly determine successful target interception. You will act as the eyes and ears of the R&D team on customer demos and field tests abroad. You will gain a big insights in all our systems as you have to make sure that they are working such that it can be deployed to a user.You will work closely with all teams, meaning control, vison, software and hardware experts — ensuring your and the teams algorithms translate directly into field performance.Core ResponsibilitiesDesigning and validate low-latency guidance and control strategiesHelp to push our multi-sensor fusion algorithms for state estimationVerify and test new computer vision approachesTest and Validate Low-Level Control Software and Hardware ChangesRaise risks and issues you see on the field to the R&D teamAnalyse data, evaluate performance and failure modes of our full tactical unit while doing interceptsRequirementsWe are looking for people who thrive on mathematical depth, rapid iteration, and hands-on flight testing. You take full ownership of field test — Aligning with the R&D team and your Safety Pilot.Your ProfilePhD or MSc in Robotics, Control Engineering, Electrical Engineering or similar field with strong academic record (from ETH Zürich or equivalent)Strong analytical mindset with the ability to derive, evaluate, and validate a complex systemGood understanding of classical & optimal control, Kalman filtering, state estimation, and linear algebra (rotations and transformations in SE(3))Proficiency in Python and LinuxComfortable in fast-paced, high-ownership environments with long hours when the mission demands itOpenness to travel oftenNice-to-HaveROS2, PX4, Ardupilot and real-time robotics softwareFast-moving object interception / high-dynamics controlExperience with Simulation Frameworks like Gazebo or Isaac SimBackground in drone flight testing or competitive roboticsBenefitsWhy CDDSDirect impact on a mission‑critical technology shaping Europe’s security landscapeFast‑moving startup environment with high ownershipWork with a highly technical, ambitious, and hands‑on teamReal‑world testing, deployments, and customer demonstrationsAttractive compensationDetailsLocation: Zürich Hardbrücke, on‑siteStart date: ASAPEnvironment: High‑impact deep‑tech startup working on real deploymentsIf your interested in the position please apply via this form.Before uploading your cover letter, please merge your last transcript and the cover letter into one pdf and upload it together as one file.Find Jobs in Switzerland on Arbeitnow
Zurich