Systems Engineer (Drones)

In today's world of constant global security challenges, innovation in defense is no luxury. After years of budget cuts, military personnel needs to train and work with inadequate and insufficient equipment. We have an opportunity to change that.

At Intelic, we are a group of highly committed professionals building one of the fastest-growing start-ups based in Amsterdam. We create advanced software for unmanned systems in the defense sector. As a software company at our core, we build Nexus, the intelligent GCS platform that gives unmanned vehicles the speed, coordination and reliability that critical missions demand. Our technology ensures that decisions are made with accuracy when it matters most.

What Will You Own

As a Systems Engineer at Intelic, you will play a pivotal role in bringing unmanned aerial systems from concept to field deployment. This is a junior-to-medior position: you'll build hands-on expertise in drone systems and avionics while working closely with the software product teams, growing into someone who understands how every part of the vehicle and Nexus fit together. Your work directly contributes to developing autonomous defense capabilities and delivering reliable systems into the hands of operators.

In practice, this means:

• Build and assemble drones, integrating airframes, electronics, sensors, and avionics into complete, mission-ready systems.

• Learn MAVLink and drone operations skills, growing into configuring, testing, and maintaining flight systems (PX4 / ArduPilot).

• Develop a strong understanding of interconnected systems and avionics, how power, communications, sensors, and flight control work together in a vehicle.

• Provide insight into and support repairs on vehicles in and out of the field, and help diagnose and resolve issues within Nexus.

• Conduct real-world flight tests to validate system integration and design choices.

• Support validation, verification, and field-testing of mission-critical systems.

• Apply CAD skills as needed to adapt or customize drone components.

• Collaborate closely with software engineers, defense experts, and operations teams.

What You Will Bring

You have an engineering background and are eager to work across the mechanical, electrical, and software aspects of unmanned aerial systems. You're comfortable, or quick to become comfortable, with how interconnected systems fit together, and you're motivated to build real hands-on skills in drone operations, MAVLink, and avionics. You enjoy tackling technical challenges together with colleagues from different disciplines.

This includes:

• A technical degree (HBO/Bachelor or higher) in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechatronics, Aerospace, Robotics, or similar.

• A junior-to-medior level of experience, with a solid engineering foundation and a genuine drive to learn drone-specific skills such as MAVLink and flight operations.

• An interest in and aptitude for understanding interconnected systems, how mechanical, electrical, and software components work together in a vehicle.

• Some hands-on experience assembling or working with drones, robotics, or embedded systems.

• Basic CAD and prototyping skills (3D printing, CNC, basic machining) as a supporting skill set.

• Willingness to work with embedded software or scripting (C++, Python, or ROS2), prior experience is a plus, not a requirement.

• Clear communication skills and flexibility to support field tests, including abroad.

Our Tech Stack

• Flight stacks: PX4, ArduPilot

• Design & prototyping: OnShape, SolidWorks, Fusion360, 3D-printing

• Onboard software: C++, Python, ROS2

• Simulation & validation: Unreal Engine 5, Gazebo

• Supporting tools: GitHub, Docker, CI/CD pipelines for testing

What Success Looks Like in Your First Year

• You've become fluent in MAVLink and comfortable operating and troubleshooting drones in real-world conditions.

• You've built a solid understanding of how Nexus's vehicles and avionics systems interconnect, and can confidently diagnose and support repairs.

• You've built and assembled multiple drone systems that support Intelic's autonomous mission platform.

• You've become a go-to person within the team for hands-on drone systems support, from assembly to field troubleshooting.

• You've actively contributed to field demonstrations with defense partners and seen your work deployed in operational conditions.

Why Join Intelic

• Talented Team: Collaborate with some of the brightest engineers and defense experts in the Netherlands.

• Scale-up Momentum: Join at a pivotal growth stage where you can help shape both the product and the company.

• Hands-On Testing: See your work in action through regular real-world field testing.

• Meaningful Impact: Contribute to mission-critical technology that directly improves safety and effectiveness in defense operations.

• Innovation at the Core: Tackle complex engineering challenges and push the boundaries of autonomy in defense.

What We Offer

At Intelic, you will be part of an ambitious scale-up where teamwork, learning and impact drive everything we do. Growth happens quickly here, giving you the chance to take ownership and shape your career from the start. We build together and back our people with benefits that support life in and out of work

• Be part of our success through a Stock Appreciation Rights program

• Travel allowance coverage

• A flexible pension plan

• The opportunity to contribute directly to our growing company’s culture and operations

• A modern office at NDSM Plein in Amsterdam Noord

• A corporate membership at Urban Sports

• 25 vacation days

• Possibility to lease a bike through ‘Lease a Bike’