Electrical Engineer, Manufacturing

Company Overview  

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.    

Role 

PDW is seeking a Manufacturing Electrical Hardware Engineer to join our team, contributing to the next wave of system and tool development for our existing and upcoming product lines. 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 ensuring seamless execution of hardware engineering design projects within a fast paced, production focused environment. This individual will contribute to all aspects of the product life cycle with a focus on the design and implementation of hardware systems that ensure quality and facilitate efficient integration during product manufacturing and sustainment of a variety of sUAS systems. 

Responsibilities   

• Design, implement, and maintain PCBA test fixtures in collaboration with Manufacturing and Contract Manufacturers.
• Support diagnostics of PCBAs, sUAS systems, and test fixtures using software, and electrical test equipment (DMM, Oscilloscopes or other) 
• Support PCBA release packages, including part substitutions and quality control with Contract Manufacturers.
• Scale and refine the internal PCBA/electronics quality program, including test fixtures and manufacturing pipeline improvements.
• Provide support for production processes, including trend analysis and system troubleshooting on the manufacturing line.
• Manage PCBA part availability risks, obsolescence challenges, and procurement strategies.
• Improve handling, installation, and storage policies for PCBA and electro-mechanical assemblies.
• Coordinate outside processing needs for PCBA preparation, such as conformal coating and secondary processing.
• Contribute to design reviews and DVT processes, including schematic capture, layout, architecture design, and parts selection.
• Develop testing criteria, plans, and fixtures for design verification and production certification.

Requirements 

• Experience in developing test fixtures for electronics and system design.
• Experience with Altium Designer.
• Experience with J-STD-001, IPC-A-610, IPC-A-620
• Experience with controlled impedance, length matching, and/or high speed signaling.
• Experience with high power systems; including a strong understanding of circuit design constraints inside these systems.
• Knowledge of common communication buses; such as I2C, CAN, Serial, and SPI – along with their debugging procedures.
• Soldering experience and electromechanical assembly.
• Experience in UAV aircrafts, robotics development, and/or hobby drones is highly desired.
• Familiar with the Atlassian tool suite, including Jira and Confluence.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering and 2-4 Years Professional Hardware Engineering Experience. 

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. 
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.   

Commitment to Inclusivity  

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.