Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used across defense, national security, and public safety missions. We are building a new center of engineering excellence to design our new category of tactical robotic systems and the industrial capacity to deliver them, bringing decisive airpower into the hands of every operator. We are not here to make promises; we are here to deliver real systems with real capabilities for real missions.  
 
You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility and focus. We design and produce multi-mission aerial systems that operators trust to perform in real-world conditions, reliably, repeatedly, and at scale. Our approach is grounded in operator-centered design, rapid iteration from field use, and U.S.-based manufacturing. We operate by a clear set of values: Mission First, Aim Farther, Own It, Win Together. This is how we build advantage and how we help protect our service members, our communities, and our country. 

At Performance Drone Works (PDW), we’re at the forefront of creating custom small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) for the modern warfighter. PDW is proudly American owned, with all design, engineering, and manufacturing of our products taking place domestically.    

PDW is seeking an Engineering Technician to join our team, contributing to the assembly of design validation, quality assurance, and in-house test fixtures along with some electro-mechanical sUAS and PCBA work. The ideal candidate will thrive working in an innovative and fast-paced work environment, have excellent critical thinking skills, and play a pivotal role in the fabrication, hand modification, validation and documentation of complete production test systems for internal Engineering, Production and PDW vendors. The Engineering Technician is a hybrid role working between the hardware design, manufacturing, and supply chain teams to ensure the highest quality hardware goes into PDW drones. 

What You'll Do

• Conduct testing and troubleshooting of electrical systems, equipment, and components to ensure their functionality, safety, and compliance with relevant regulations and standards.  
• Collaborate with engineers to build and test prototypes of electrical systems, making necessary adjustments and improvements based on test results. 
• Execution of design validation testing (DVT) on incoming designs per instructions from the hardware design team.  
• Execution acceptance testing (ATP), including visual inspection and functional testing, on incoming production inventory. 
• Authoring, proposing, and editing DVT and ATP plans as drafted by the engineering team. 
• Assist in the assembly, installation, and calibration of electrical systems and components, collaborating with the engineering team to ensure accurate implementation.  
• Ability to diagnose issues with PCBAs with provided schematics using visual and electrical testing methods. 
• Perform hand rework of prototype hardware for designated design and test requirements as well as released production modifications of PCBAs and Electro-Mechanical Assemblies. 
• Assist with updating work instructions and documentation as needed to support manufacturing and quality assurance. 
• Keep lead and management aware of issues, problems, and progress. 
• Continuous improvement awareness and willingness to help improve processes. 

Requirements

• Degree in Electrical Engineering Technology or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Past work experience in technology, engineering, and manufacturing environments is preferred
• Solder certification and inspection to IPC J-STD-001 / IPC-A-610 / IPC-A-620 highly desirable 

ITAR Requirement  

In compliance with International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be U.S. Citizens, U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) or individuals granted asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). 

Compensation and Benefits 

PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include: 

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company. 
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match. 
• Paid Parental Leave.
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.  

EEO Statement

PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.