Junior UAV Designer

Job description | Design and Build Focus
Location: CyRIC Headquarters, Ergates, Nicosia, Cyprus
Employment: Full-time | Department: UAV Department
Reports to: Head of UAV Department
Language: Fluent English required | Greek beneficial
About CyRIC
CyRIC develops products for global markets across robotics, autonomous systems, drones, AI and IoT. With over 120 employees and 4,000 m² of advanced R&D and production facilities, our teams take technologies from concept through manufacturing, testing and international deployment. Our portfolio exceeds €50 million in R&D and commercial projects and includes more than 50 market-ready products.
Learn more: https://www.ags.cyric.eu/ and https://www.iot.cyric.eu/.
Position Overview
We are looking for a Junior UAV Designer to work directly alongside the Lead UAV Designer team across the full development cycle, from initial sketches and 3D CAD models (such as SolidWorks, Onshape or other) to prototypes, assembled aircraft and flight testing. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys designing and building flying hardware, with guidance from experienced engineers and opportunities to develop practical UAV engineering skills.
What You Will Do
• CAD design and modelling. Model UAV components and assemblies in SolidWorks, developing concept sketches into build-ready drawings under the guidance of the Lead UAV Designer. Support airframe and subsystem development, fit checks and design updates.
• RC airframe assembly. Build and rig RC/UAV airframes, including fuselages, wings, control surfaces, servo installations, wiring and control linkages. Check alignment, control travel and mechanical fit against approved build requirements.
• Rapid prototyping. Operate FDM 3D printers, prepare and slice models, and produce prototype jigs, mounts, brackets and fairings. Improve designs based on print quality, fit checks and feedback from assembly and testing.
• Workshop fabrication. Assist with basic part preparation, drilling, trimming, bonding and fastening using appropriate tools and approved procedures. Keep the work area organised and handle materials and equipment safely.
• Subsystem integration. Assist with the installation of propulsion, batteries, avionics and payload mounts under engineering supervision. Check component access, cable routing, clearances and secure mounting.
• Testing and flight support. Assist with structural checks and aerodynamic testing. Help prepare aircraft for ground and flight tests, including assembly inspections, mass and centre-of-gravity checks, pre-flight checklists and ground support under authorised supervision.
• Design iteration. Record build and test observations, identify fit or assembly problems and propose practical improvements for review by the Lead UAV Designer. Implement approved changes and verify the results.
• Documentation and traceability. Maintain accurate drawings, bills of materials, revision records and build logs. Record prototype configurations and test observations so designs and builds remain traceable and repeatable.
• Team collaboration. Work with mechanical, electronics, manufacturing and flight-test colleagues. Communicate progress, ask for guidance where needed and raise defects or safety concerns promptly.
What We Are Looking For
• Hands-on experience building and rigging RC aircraft, including airframe assembly, control surfaces, servos and linkages. We value evidence of completed builds and practical problem-solving.
• Demonstrable 3D CAD Software skills (Soliworks, Onshape etc.) in part modelling and assemblies. Ability to produce or learn to prepare clear engineering drawings.
• Practical experience with FDM 3D printing, slicing software, printer operation and designing parts for reliable printing and assembly.
• Comfort using basic workshop tools, taking measurements and checking component fit, with attention to detail and a responsible approach to safety.
• Ability to follow engineering instructions, maintain clear build records and work constructively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Curiosity, initiative and a willingness to learn through hands-on design, building and testing.
Background and Additional Advantages
• A degree, diploma or studies in Mechanical, Aerospace or Aeronautical Engineering are an advantage. Applicants with a strong self-taught or hobbyist foundation and a relevant portfolio are also welcome.
• RC flying or piloting experience; composite materials and carbon-fibre fabrication; basic FEA; or familiarity with UAV propulsion, avionics and flight controllers.
• Experience preparing production drawings, selecting fasteners and materials, or designing simple assembly jigs.
Why Join CyRIC
• Competitive remuneration package and opportunities for career progression.
• Mentoring from experienced UAV engineers, professional development and access to modern laboratories, testing and manufacturing facilities.
• Hands-on involvement in real UAV products, with international collaboration and travel opportunities.
How to Apply
Send your CV and a short cover letter of no more than two pages explaining your fit for the role to jobs@cyric.eu. Include, where available, photographs of RC aircraft you have built, 3D CAD Software models or drawings, and 3D-printed projects. Briefly explain your own contribution; share only material you are authorised to disclose.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to skills evaluation days at our headquarters in Nicosia.