System Test Technician

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 a Test Technician to join the world‑class team developing our autonomous small unmanned aerial systems platforms.

The ideal candidate will be comfortable operating within a multi‑disciplinary team and possess experience in electro‑mechanical system assembly, operation, verification and validation. The candidate will use their expertise in technical assembly and operation to support multidisciplinary teams of engineers as they design and build the next generation of American sUAS. This role will support the engineering department in building, repair, testing, and troubleshooting of sUAS assets within PDW’s product catalogue. We are looking for someone who thrives in an innovative and fast‑paced environment, can tackle challenges as they arise, and is committed to delivering highly capable and reliable systems.

What You’ll Do

• Build, assemble, and integrate sUAS platforms including airframes, propulsion systems, flight controllers, payloads, and RF systems.
• Conduct system‑level testing, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis on electrical, mechanical, and integration issues.
• Interpret wiring diagrams, assembly drawings, and technical documentation to ensure accurate builds.
• Execute rework and repairs on internal development and test aircraft and subsystems to restore mission capability.
• Support environmental, functional, and flight readiness testing of aircraft prior to shipment.
• Maintain build documentation, configuration control, and quality records for Tech Programs sUAS fleet in accordance with company standards.
• Work independently to manage assigned builds and tasks with minimal supervision in a fast‑paced startup environment.
• Execute testing of sUAS and payloads in support of development, verification/Validation, and regression test campaigns across PDW programs.

Requirements

• 3-5 years of experience building, integrating, or repairing sUAS, UAV, or similar electronic/mechanical systems.
• Associates degree or 2 year technical certificate preferred.
• 3+ years of advanced soldering experience (up to through‑hole) and designing and building wire harnesses and cable assemblies to specification in a production or lab environment.
• Strong troubleshooting skills across electrical, power distribution, and embedded flight control systems.
• Ability to read and interpret wiring schematics, assembly drawings, and technical work instructions.
• Experience with common sUAS components (flight controllers, ESCs, motors, GPS modules, telemetry radios, FPV systems).
• Proficiency using lab and production tools including multimeters, oscilloscopes, crimp tools, soldering stations, heat guns, and hand tools.
• Understanding of LiPo battery systems, power management, and safe handling practices.
• Ability to manage workload independently with limited guidance and high accountability.
• Strong attention to detail with a quality‑first mindset in a mission‑critical production environment.
• Experience supporting DoD, defense, or first responder programs in a regulated environment.
• Familiarity with configuration management, production documentation, and manufacturing processes.

Preferred

• Experience with aviation or unmanned systems strongly preferred.
• 5+ years of product development and test experience, preferably in sUAS systems, embedded software or electrical systems.
• Demonstrated ability to design and build a custom FPV drone from individual components.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift/carry up to 25 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment as well as lab equipment. Must be physically capable of operation of small tablet (GCS), manipulation of tight‑tolerance technologies, use of hand tools and lab equipment.

Work Environment

This position operates in a mix of standard office setting, manufacturing environment, lab, sUAS flight line, and travel for diverse terrain testing. This role requires use of standard office equipment, hand tools, power tools, custom test apparatus, lab equipment, tight‑tolerance high‑sensitivity electrical and mechanical hardware, and may require occasional travel to various testing facilities to perform validation testing. This position will have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non‑climate‑controlled environments. Will require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast‑paced work environment and requires cross departmental collaboration with independent and team‑based responsibilities. Standard works hours for this position are 8am‑5pm with occasional overtime as operational needs demand.

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.