Drone and Robotics Engineer

Who We Are?

Cleantech Industry Resources accelerates United States solar, battery storage and EV projects by providing turnkey development as a service including 100% internal systems engineering. The company deploys a leading team that spun out of the largest solar power producer in the world. This team operates within a sophisticated suite of software to support projects from land origination, through to commercial operation.

Location of Position:

• Chennai

What We Offer

• Opportunity to join a top-notch, collaborative team of professionals
• Fantastic team environment and collaborative culture
• Professional development opportunities to grow into an industry leader
• Medical Insurance for the employee and family
• Spot Recognition bonus for exceptional performance
• Long Term Incentive policy
• Regular team outings, events, and activities to foster a positive work environment

Our Commitment to Diversity

At CIR, we are dedicated to nurturing a diverse and equitable workforce that truly reflects our community. We deeply value each person’s unique perspective, skills, and experiences. CIR embraces all individuals, regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or nationality. We are steadfast in our commitment to fostering a just and inclusive world through intentional policies and actions. Your individuality enriches our collective strength, and we strive to ensure everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered.

Position Summary

As a Drone and Robotics Engineer at CIR, you will develop and deploy automated solutions for inspecting and monitoring solar assets. You'll work with cross-functional teams to define use cases, integrate sensors and flight control systems (ROS/PX4/ArduPilot), and ensure safe, regulation-compliant drone operations. Your role includes analyzing imagery using AI/ML, maintaining robotic systems, and driving innovation through continuous testing and technology upgrades.

Core Responsibilities

Define automation use cases and requirements

Work with the automation and solar O&M teams to understand inspection and monitoring needs, translate them into robotics/drone system requirements and propose technical solutions.

Integrate hardware and software

Develop flight control software and integrate GPS, LiDAR, thermal cameras and other sensors. Use ROS/PX4/ArduPilot frameworks to ensure reliable navigation and data capture.

Plan and execute inspections

Plan flight paths and robotic missions for thermal imaging and visual inspections of panels, trackers and other infrastructure while complying with DGCA/UAS 2.0 regulations. Conduct preflight checks and ensure operational safety.

Process and analyze data

Develop scripts or leverage ML/AI models to process high resolution and thermal imagery for hotspot detection, shading analysis and fault identification. Present results to stakeholders and integrate findings into maintenance workflows.

Testing and quality assurance

Conduct laboratory and field tests to verify performance, identify mechanical/software issues and optimize system reliability before deployment.

Maintenance & troubleshooting

Perform regular diagnostics, firmware updates and repairs on drones and robots. Establish maintenance schedules and keep detailed logs.

Compliance & documentation

Ensure systems meet DGCA/FAA regulations and obtain necessary certifications. Produce documentation, standard operating procedures and training material for end-users.

Innovation & research

Stay current with advancements in robotics, UAVs and AI; evaluate new sensors and technologies; and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and prototypes.

Collaboration and training

Collaborate with software developers, GIS analysts and solar engineers; provide training to field technicians on robotic and drone operation; and communicate technical information clearly to nontechnical team members.

Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Robotics, Mechatronics, Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or similar.

Technical Skills and Experience

Software Proficiency:

• Proficiency in ROS/PX4/ArduPilot and programming languages such as Python and C++; familiarity with embedded systems and sensor integration (GPS, IMUs, LiDAR, thermal cameras).
• Knowledge of AI/ML techniques for image and thermal data analysis.
• Understanding of UAS regulations and safety protocols (DGCA regulations in India, FAA Part 107 elsewhere).

Experience:

• 3–5 years’ experience designing, building and testing drones or robots—preferably for infrastructure inspection, renewable energy assets or industrial automation.
• Experience developing flight control or autonomous navigation software and working with SLAM/obstacle avoidance algorithms.
• Handson experience with CAD tools for mechanical design and 3D modelling.

Psychosocial Skills /Human Skills/Behavioural Skills

• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to take ideas and run with them from concept to conclusion.
• Technical understanding of clean energy business processes
• Exceptional verbal and writing communication skills with superiors, peers, partners, and other stakeholders.
• Excellent interpersonal skills while managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The physical demands of this job require an individual to be able to work at a computer for most of the day, be able to participate in conference calls and travel to team retreats on a time-to-time basis. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Conditions

The work environment is usually quiet (normal city traffic noises are common), a blend of artificial and natural light, temperate and generally supports a collaborative work environment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Equal Opportunity Employer

At Cleantech Industry Resources, we embrace diversity and uphold a strong dedication to establishing an all-encompassing atmosphere for both our staff and associates. Our choices in employment are free from any bias related to race, creed, nationality, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, physical limitations, veteran status, or any other legally safeguarded attributes.

Being an integral part of Cleantech Industry Resources means you can expect to be immersed in a realm of professional possibilities within a culture that nurtures teamwork, adaptability, and the embracing of all.