Research engineer

Mission

The Laboratory of Sustainability Robotics (LSR) of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Lausanne (EPFL) searches a motivated and skilled Research Engineer to manage and maintain our state-of-the-art Flight arena for testing and validating of aerial robotics and drone technologies. This facility supports various research projects, academic coursework, and collaborations, making it a dynamic and multidisciplinary environment. The successful candidate will oversee operations, ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, and contribute to the advancement of drone research and development.

Main duties and responsibilities

The main activities to be carried out as part of the project include:

· Maintain and manage the lab facilities and associated equipment, including drones, motion capture systems, and safety infrastructure.

· Perform regular inspections, troubleshooting, and maintenance of hardware and software used in the arena.

· Assist academic staff, researchers, and students in setting up experiments and tests within the lab.

· Ensure the facility complies with all health and safety standards and regulations.

· Conduct risk assessments for activities within the facility and develop safety procedures.

· Train users on safety protocols and emergency response procedures.

· Coordinate access for visitors, external collaborators, and industry partners.

· Maintain accurate records of facility usage, incidents, and equipment inventory.

· Support funding applications and project proposals related to facility development or drone research.

Profile

The candidates should hold a degree (BSc, MSc, or higher) in a relevant discipline such as Robotics, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.

Technical Skills:

· Experience with aerial robotics systems, including drone operation, design, or programming.

· Knowledge of motion capture systems, flight controllers, and simulation software (e.g., ROS, Gazebo, PX4, or ArduPilot).

· Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, C++, or MATLAB.

· Basic understanding of electronics and mechatronics for drone maintenance and repair.

Health and Safety Expertise:

· Experience conducting risk assessments and developing health and safety procedures.

· Knowledge of safety standards relevant to drone operations and testing environments.

Soft Skills:

· Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work with diverse stakeholders, including students, researchers, and external partners.

· Problem-solving mindset and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues independently.

· Desirable Attributes

· Previous experience in managing or operating a similar research facility or lab.

· Familiarity with collaborative research environments, especially in academia or industry.

· A passion for innovation in aerial robotics and a proactive approach to exploring emerging technologies.

We offer

· A stimulating and international working environment in the EPFL campus/Lausanne.

· Competitive salary and excellent working conditions.

· Opportunity to perform state-of-the-art research in one of the most dynamic scientific institutions in Europe

Informations

Only applications submitted through the online platform are considered. You are asked to supply:

A brief cover letter (pdf, up to 2 pages).
And in one PDF:

- A CV with a publication list.
- A research statement (pdf, up to 3 pages).
- Contact details for 3 referees.
For any further information, please contact:

Contract Start Date : as soon as possible

Activity Rate : 100.00

Contract Type: CDD

Duration: 1 year

Reference: 1312