LEAD SYSTEMS ENGINEER

Lead Systems Engineer - Aerospace & Defense Project

Duncan & Ross is seeking a highly experienced Lead Systems Engineer with a background in DRDO or equivalent defense R&D organizations to support a strategic aerospace and defense project led by our client in Abu Dhabi. This role is based in Hyderabad, Telangana, India, and involves close technical collaboration with multidisciplinary teams in the UAE. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in systems engineering, defense technologies, and systems integration related to missile systems, flight platforms, or aerospace defense systems.

Job Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and development of complex aerospace or defense systems, with a focus on missile platforms, launch systems, avionics, or guided systems.
• Define system-level architecture, specifications, interfaces, and performance standards in coordination with Abu Dhabi-based teams.
• Ensure alignment with military-grade reliability, security, and performance benchmarks.
• Oversee integration of subsystems including propulsion, control systems, telemetry, navigation, and electronics.
• Leverage DRDO experience to anticipate and resolve integration challenges across ground and flight systems.
• Provide subject matter expertise in real-time control, guidance, and mission-critical system design.
• Act as the technical point-of-contact from India for project activities managed by the Abu Dhabi office.
• Coordinate with engineering leads, suppliers, and government stakeholders on project milestones, reviews, and risk assessments.
• Support real-time communication and documentation flow between India and UAE teams.
• Review system-level test plans, qualification strategies, and performance analysis.
• Provide input during flight trials, simulations, and failure analysis.
• Ensure compliance with defense and aerospace standards throughout design and testing phases.
• Develop and maintain detailed technical documentation, system design records, and test reports.
• Ensure all systems adhere to applicable defense protocols, export control restrictions, and quality standards.

Key Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Systems Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 15 years of experience in defense R&D organizations such as DRDO, ISRO, HAL, or equivalent.
• Proven track record working on missile systems, launch platforms, avionics, or high-speed flight systems.
• Strong systems engineering expertise in requirements management, interface control, and integration.
• Familiarity with MIL-STD, AS9100, or defense project lifecycle methodologies.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Scientist grade or technical leadership role at DRDO or similar institutions.
• Hands-on experience with projects like AGNI, PINAKA, NAG, or tactical weapons systems.
• Experience collaborating with international defense organizations or joint development programs.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to operate in cross-functional and cross-border teams.

Vertical: Engineering