Engineering Development Technician II

Supports the assembly and testing of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and related sub-assemblies. This is a hands-on role focused on build, basic integration, and general lab/shop support under the direction of senior technicians and engineers.

Responsibilities

• Perform basic mechanical and electrical assembly, integration, and rework of unmanned systems and sub-assemblies by following standard procedures and work instructions.
• Use common shop equipment and tools (hand tools, power tools, soldering irons, crimp tools, small benchtop equipment, basic 3D printers) in a safe and correct manner.
• Support prototype hardware builds, including:
  • simple wiring harness assembly,
  • basic avionics and payload installation,
  • setup and teardown of ground support equipment under guidance.
• Assist with part kitting, inventory checks, and build preparation to help meet project schedules.
• Accurately document build steps, work performed, and any issues found using standard forms or templates.
• Identify straightforward issues during assembly and escalate complex problems to senior technicians or engineers.
• Follow detailed engineering instructions (verbal, sketches, drawings, and written procedures) and provide clear feedback when instructions are unclear.
• Build and use simple fixtures, tools, and jigs as directed using basic fabrication methods (cutting, drilling, simple brackets, etc.).
• Help maintain clean, organized, and safe lab and shop areas in accordance with 5S and safety guidelines.
• Support test activities by:
  • setting up test articles and basic instrumentation,
  • running predefined test procedures under supervision,
  • recording test data accurately.
• Participate in required safety training (including explosives safety where applicable) and follow all safety procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of engineering development and testing.

Requirements

• High School diploma or GED equivalent is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Minimum 5+ years in manufacture, assembly and flight test of UAS aircraft systems.
• Minimum of 2+ years' experience effectively leading and supervising product build teams.
• General proficiency with Microsoft Office Software and general computer skills.
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form.
• Strong large scale composite knowledge or aerospace/UAV systems.
• Fundamental knowledge in electrical and mechanical systems.
• Ability to analyze and solve problems; handle technician resource issues in a timely manner as they arise.
• Experience working with manufacturing systems, processes and procedures.
• Ability to support travel and deployments of minimum two week increments (frequent).
• Periods of development may require long irregular hours around deadlines, weekends and some holidays and in field test environments.
• U.S. Citizen or U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder), per ITAR definition.

Qualifications

• Some hands-on experience building or working with drones/UAS, RC aircraft, robotics, electronics projects, or similar hobby/technical activities is desired.
• Completion of relevant technical coursework, trade school, or a technical certificate is preferred.
• Familiarity with basic 3D printing (desktop FDM printers) is a plus.
• Exposure to CAD or 3D modeling tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360) is a plus, but not required.
• Ability to read and follow basic technical drawings, wiring diagrams, and written procedures.

Physical Demands

• Requires manual dexterity and ability to effectively use machining tools, both manual and automated.
• Requires use of soldering iron to assist with electrical assembly.
• Ability to move and/or carry heavy equipment.
• Ability to meet California laws governing the acceptable use of a respirator.
• Capable of lifting up to 50 pounds as well as objects of varying sizes and shapes for setups and assemblies for various internal customers.
• Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and/or telephone keyboard.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment.

Pay

The salary range for this role is $23 - $35 per hour. AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401K with company matching.
• 9/80 work schedule.
• Paid holiday shutdown.

About the Company

AeroVironment isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best. We don’t just build defense technology—we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve. Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian—but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next.