Engineer (f/m/d) - Robust Communications for UAVs and Aircraft

Vacancy-ID: 4647
Place of work: Oberpfaffenhofen
Starting date: as soon as possible
Career level: Experienced professionals; Graduates
Type of employment: Full-time; Part time
Duration of contract: 3 years
Remuneration: Remuneration is in accordance with the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector - Federal Government (TVöD-Bund)

The Institute of Communication and Navigation, with locations in Oberpfaffenhofen and Neustrelitz, is dedicated to mission‑oriented research in selected areas of communication and navigation. These are embedded in the DLR programmes for space, aviation, transport and security.

What to Expect

The Communication Systems Department has been playing a leading role in aviation research in the fields of communication, navigation and surveillance for many years (CNS). Aviation is currently undergoing major changes: new radio technologies are being introduced to cope with the increasing volume of air traffic and to support the arrival of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Research into these new systems goes hand in hand with the development of transmitter and receiver prototypes, which we test in measurement campaigns and use to test new techniques in real‑life scenarios. In this context, we are looking for you to work with us in the Aeronautical Communications team to research and develop creative solutions for the following tasks.

Your tasks

• Design and develop new techniques for PHY‑layer robustness with a focus on their applicability to DroneCAST and LDACS.
• Test the developed methods through computer simulations and with SDR‑based prototypes.
• Carry out measurements and experimental flights using the SDR‑based prototypes to verify the proposed techniques in real‑life scenarios.
• Publish and present your results in renowned scientific journals, at international conferences and in projects.

Your profile

• Completed scientific university degree (master's/diploma) in engineering (e.g. electrical engineering, telecommunications engineering, information technology, information and communications technology, computer science or aerospace engineering) or other courses of study relevant to the position with excellent grades.
• Very good programming skills, e.g., in Matlab, Python, C++.
• Expertise in software development and ideally in SDR‑based prototypes.
• Expertise in the field of CNS (communication, navigation, surveillance) for drones and aircraft.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team‑oriented, cooperative manner.
• Very good English skills.

Remuneration depends on qualifications and job assignment up to pay grad 13 TVöD.

We offer

DLR stands for diversity, appreciation and equality for all people. We promote independent work and the individual development of our employees both personally and professionally. To this end, we offer numerous training and development opportunities. Equal opportunities are of particular importance to us, which is why we want to increase the proportion of women in science and management in particular. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preference if they are qualified.