Performance Drone Works (PDW) builds technologies for the warfighter, by the warfighter. Born out of the Drone Racing League, our roots are competitive, our mindset is tactical, and our mission is clear: deliver purpose-built unmanned systems to those who serve. We are not here to sell vapor; we build and ship real capabilities for real missions.
Now, we’re entering a new phase of growth and are looking for an Embedded Systems Technician to join our team, supporting Production Operations. This role plays a critical role in the assembly of drone electro-mechanical systems and final products of unmanned drones in support of our mission-critical operations. This role will contribute to the next wave of system and tool development for our current and future product lines. The successful candidate will be responsible for building the systems that integrate with our deployment environments, crafting tools for engineering research and supporting new technologies that aid towards the advancement of sUAS functional systems.
The ideal candidate will thrive working in an innovative and fast-paced work environment, have excellent critical thinking skills, able to deal with problems on the fly, and delivers thoughtfully designed and highly adaptable systems.
What You'll Do
- The ideal candidate will have strong critical thinking abilities with a high focus on safety, product quality and on-time delivery
- 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
- Assist in the assembly, installation, and calibration of electrical systems and components, collaborating with the engineering team to ensure accurate implementation
- Calibrate and adjust electrical testing equipment to maintain accuracy and reliability during testing procedures
- Authoring, proposing, and editing DVT and ATP plans defined by the engineering team
- Hand rework of prototype hardware for designated design and test requirements as well as released production modifications
- Assist with updating work instructions and documentation as needed to support manufacturing and quality assurance
- Assemble, test, and inspect sub-assemblies and finished products in accordance with established quality, operation standards and process instructions to meet the production schedule
- Collaborate with design engineering to implement engineering changes and new products by partnering closely with technical team, production control, supply chain, quality, and manufacturing engineering
- Load aircraft system software and pair to controllers for Preparation of Aircraft For Shipment
- Adherence to manufacturing process instructions and test documentation
Requirements
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, preferred is within electro-mechanical assembly
- Associate’s degree or 2-year technical certificate preferred
- Ability to read, interpret, and follow engineering drawings and technical documentation with understanding of procedures and the ability to follow them precisely
- Proven experience as an Electro-Mechanical Technician performing work on complex assemblies, assembling and troubleshooting drones, vehicles, or aircrafts is highly preferred
- Demonstrated experience in PCBA modification, repair and testing
- Demonstrated experience in creation and execution of test protocols and tools for electrical hardware and interfaces
- Strong experience in PCBA component modification, soldering, and creation of test protocols and tools
- Strong experience in electrical component and assembly inventory handling, modification, and test. Design experience preferred.
- Exposure to or experience in an ISO9001-2015 / AS9100 quality environment.
- Demonstrated reliability, willingness to learn, ability to navigate calmly stressful situations, and a proactive approach to solving problems with ability to manage multiple projects and tasks effectively
- Familiarity with Quality Management Systems and non-conformance reporting (NCR)
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneDrive, SharePoint) and Linux
- Demonstrated experience with LEAN principles such as 5S, problem solving, visual factory, Kanban, and waste elimination
Physical Requirements
This position requires the following:
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. regularly, with occasional heavier lifting
- Employee must be able to stand, walk, and bend for long periods, as well as push, pull, and maneuver carts and packages
- Manual dexterity is necessary for handling
Work Environment
- Operates primarily in a professional, climate-controlled office, warehouse, manufacturing and shipping environment. At times, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as safety gloves, ESD smocks, ESD wrist straps, goggles, and hearing protection may be required.
- Employee will also work outdoors as applicable, where they may be exposed to the elements, including heat, rain, and cold.
- Standard hours are Monday through Friday 7:00AM to 3:30PM, with occasional overtime as operational needs may require.
- Fast paced environment with quick response to design engineering technical guidance to ensure assembly procedures meet design intent and quality requirements.
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.
- On-site gym at our Huntsville, AL location.
- Employer provided life insurance.
- Robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
- 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.
