[jobs] 6 Full-Time Positions in Aerial Robotics -- Spin-Off / University of Klagenfurt (Prof. Stephan Weiss)

As a young spin-off of the University of Klagenfurt we are equipping drones with a new-generation low-cost technology package to reach full GNSS-independent autonomy. The technology originates from our work at the University of Klagenfurt, ETH Zurich, and NASA’s JPL and has successfully initiated the Mars Ingenuity mission. We firmly believe that our technology will open a new level of autonomy for a wide variety of industries by finally transferring it from R&D to the industry. Endless & affordable applications for everyone – no fancy, expensive, and bulky drones! We are currently finalizing our Minimum Viable Product (MVP) together with our partners in the agricultural sector before extending it to further industries (oil & gas, civil construction, security, port operations).
Our vision: to provide every commercial drone user and service provider with a low-cost product to upgrade their drones with maximum flexibility & reliability.

With a significant government funding already secured, we are offering (from Mar./Apr. 2023 on) 6 positions as AI or Autonomy Software Engineers for:

Applicants with a Master or PhD degree (all genders welcome)
Level of employment: 100 %
Minimum salary: According to the applicant’s degree and the Austrian university regulations
Application deadline: Continuous, until all positions are filled


Your tasks will include:

  • AI: design & train modules for AI-based pattern recognition for specific use cases.
  • Autonomy: design modules to enable fully automated missions in real-world applications – take-off, flight, landing, recharging w/o human intervention.
  • Responsibility to plan & implement pilot scenarios: work with our partners/customers & our lead engineers to optimize the end-user interfaces.
  • Build partnerships: gather & evaluate data support major savings for our customers; build customer trust.
  • Contribute to our product strategy: apply your acquired knowledge to a long-term strategy.

Required skills:

  • AI: Machine learning, image processing; good knowledge in Yolo, Pytorch etc. is an advantage; experience with cloud-based data processing is an advantage
  • Autonomy: Experience in software development (C++); knowledge in Linux, Robot Operating System (ROS) and computer vision is an advantage; knowledge in processing sensor data & robot control is an advantage.
  • Self-driven, pro-active, innovative; comfortable in working autonomously/in small teams
  • Entrepreneurial mindset: thinking ahead, see the big picture, uncover opportunities

We offer:

  • Fully paid employment – with a university contract and corresponding benefits (salary according to applicant’s level & Austrian university regulations); with share participation based on your performance.
  • Flexible work locations – work at Klagenfurt is preferred but we live an open and flexible working culture
  • World-leading experts in drone autonomy having worked on Mars’ Ingenuity and countless space & aerospace projects
  • High-end testing facilities with one of Europe’s largest and most modern drone halls in Klagenfurt (Austria) to play around with our highly disruptive technology! Real-world applications with our customers
  • Passion for our cause - a diverse team, an open mindset to bring autonomy to everyone – be part of our lift-off team!
  • Work where others go for holidays – the campus of the University of Klagenfurt is located right at the Wörthersee.

How to apply:
Did we spark your interest? If so, please apply in German or English by sending the usual documents to Stephan.Weiss@aau.at:

  • Letter of application
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Certificates and support letters

For further information on this specific vacancy, please contact Stephan Weiss (Stephan.Weiss@aau.at). General information about the university as an employer can be found at The University of Klagenfurt as employer – Universität Klagenfurt | Job-Portal. At the University of Klagenfurt, recruitment and staff matters are accompanied not only by the authority responsible for the recruitment procedure but also by the Equal Opportunities Working Group and, if necessary, by the Representative for Disabled Persons.

The University of Klagenfurt aims to increase the proportion of women and therefore specifically invites qualified women to apply for the position. Where the qualification is equivalent, women will be given preferential consideration. People with disabilities or chronic diseases, who fulfill the requirements, are particularly encouraged to apply.