Co-Op, UAS Integration and Test Engineer

Job Description:

Looking to make an impact by advancing cutting-edge unmanned aerial systems (UAS) technologies? Saab Inc. is seeking a motivated UAS Integration and Test Engineer Co-Op to join the Skapa by Saab team for the November 2025 to May 2026 timeframe. This Co-Op opportunity is based in West Lafayette, Indiana, with potential travel to San Diego, CA and other U.S. sites to support live UAS operations and testing.

As part of Saab’s Counter-UAS research and development team, you will gain hands-on experience in the full lifecycle of UAS platforms — from design and assembly to flight testing and operational evaluation. Working alongside experienced engineers and researchers, you will directly support the development, integration, and field operation of UAS systems critical to Saab’s defense and security initiatives.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Design, build, and integrate UAS platforms, including airframe selection, component integration, and system configuration.

• Develop Bills of Materials (BOMs), manage component inventories, and document all system builds for reproducibility and traceability.

• Develop, maintain, and document Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for UAS experiments, including preflight, flight, and post-flight checklists.

• Support hardware integration and configuration of avionics, telemetry systems, sensors, and ground control stations.

• Assist in UAS flight operations, including mission planning, airworthiness checks, safety monitoring, and data capture.

• Participate in field test events, including range setup, operational support, and post-test data collection and documentation.

• Maintain detailed records of configurations, flight logs, and operational performance metrics.

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure safe and effective test operations across multiple sites.

• Stay current with FAA regulations, operational best practices, and emerging UAS technologies.

Compensation Range: $20-$22/hr
In addition to a competitive hourly rate, Saab Inc. offers a sign-on bonus to off-set housing expenses for Co-Ops residing outside the typical office commuting distance.

The compensation range provided is a general guideline. When extending an offer, Saab, Inc. considers factors including (but not limited to) the role and associated responsibilities, location, and market and business considerations, as well as the candidate's work experience, key skills, and education/training.

Skills and Experience:

Required Qualifications:

• Actively pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required).

• Demonstrated familiarity with PX4, ArduPilot, QGroundControl, and Mission Planner flight control software.

• Experience working with UAS airframes, propulsion systems, and avionics components.

• Strong understanding of UAS system assembly, configuration, and safety practices.

• Ability to develop and follow technical documentation, such as SOPs, maintenance guides, or build instructions.

• Comfortable working hands-on in laboratory and field environments.

• Excellent communication, organization, and teamwork skills.

• Must be a U.S. person (citizen or lawful permanent resident) due to access to export-controlled information.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience designing, assembling, or testing custom-built UAS platforms.

• Familiarity with flight range operations, safety protocols, and data collection workflows.

• Understanding of Counter-UAS technologies, payload integration, or flight test instrumentation.

• Experience with airframe design, system documentation, or configuration management tools.

Citizenship Requirements:

Must be a U.S. citizen, Permanent Resident (green card holder), or protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Drug-Free Workplaces:

Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for sustaining drug-free workplaces. As a condition of employment, candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screen.

About Us:

Saab is a leading defense and security company with an enduring mission, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 19,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer, more sustainable and more equitable world. In the U.S., Saab delivers advanced technology and systems, supporting the U.S. Armed Forces and the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as international and commercial partners. Headquartered in Syracuse, New York, the company has business units and local employees in eight U.S. locations.

Saab is a company where we see diversity as an asset and offer unlimited opportunities for advancing in your career. We are also a company that respects each person’s needs and encourage employees to lead a balanced, rewarding life beyond work. Saab values diversity and is an Affirmative Action employer for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Saab is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, all qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran, disability status, or any other federal, state, or locally protected category.