Electrical Engineer

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. 

What You’ll Do

• Design and develop PCB assemblies and electronic subsystems with increasing ownership and independence.
• Create production-ready schematics, PCB layouts, fabrication documentation, assembly drawings, and manufacturing outputs using Altium Designer.
• Support board bring-up, validation testing, debugging, and transition of designs into manufacturing.
• Apply design-for-manufacturability (DFM), design-for-test (DFT), and reliability principles throughout the development process.
• Perform root cause analysis and corrective actions on hardware failures and manufacturing issues.
• Collaborate closely with software, mechanical, manufacturing, product, and supply chain teams.
• Participate in design reviews and contribute technical recommendations.
• Maintain engineering documentation including BOMs, ECOs, validation reports, and design rationale.
• Take end-to-end ownership of well-defined electrical subsystems from concept through production support.

Requirements

• Strong Altium Designer experience with professional schematic capture and PCB layout development.
• Working knowledge of analog and digital circuit design principles.
• Experience designing circuits utilizing common communication interfaces.
• Experience performing hardware bring-up, validation testing, debugging, and troubleshooting activities.
• Familiarity with PCB fabrication and assembly processes.
• Understanding of DFM, DFT, and reliability principles.
• Bachelor's degree with 3+ years of professional electronics development experience. 

Preferred

• Experience designing battery-powered systems or power electronics.
• Exposure to EMI/EMC design considerations.
• Experience supporting products through manufacturing release.
• Familiarity with Git.
• Background in UAVs, robotics, aerospace, or autonomous technologies.

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 or manufacturing equipment as well as various electronic power supplies and test equipment. Must be physically capable of the assigned duties.

Work Environment

This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office and manufacturing equipment and may require occasional travel to customer locations or facilities. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May 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. This position may require working outside of core business hours as needed to support business and operational requirements.

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). 

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.
• On-site gym at our Huntsville, AL and Denver, CO locations.
• Employer provided life insurance.
• Robust Employee Assistant Program (EAP).
• 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.

This position will have an annual salary, equity, and benefits. The salary range provided is a guideline rather than a fixed limit. Individual pay is determined by factors including geography, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.