Flight Hardware and System Integration Engineer

BPRL is a facility in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and the Robotics Graduate Program at the University of Colorado, Boulder that conducts research and development in field robotics and biologically inspired robotics. We seek to distill the fundamental sensing, processing, and feedback principles that govern robust behavior in organisms to enable new classes of robotic systems with improved agility, locomotion, and autonomy.

About the role

The successful candidate will design, fabricate, integrate, and maintain autonomous aerial vehicle hardware for cutting-edge robotics research, working closely with researchers developing perception, guidance, and control algorithms to create reliable experimental platforms for autonomous flight demonstrations.

Responsibilities

• Design, fabricate, assemble, and maintain custom drone platforms for laboratory research and flight testing.
• Build and maintain CAD models using SolidWorks.
• Design and integrate printed circuit boards (PCBs) for embedded sensing, power distribution, and onboard electronics.
• Integrate novel sensing technologies including cameras, event cameras, radar, strain sensing systems, IMUs, GPS, and other experimental hardware.
• Develop mechanical mounting solutions for sensors and embedded electronics while considering manufacturability, weight, stiffness, and maintainability.
• Maintain accurate vehicle models, mass properties, and hardware configurations used in simulation and flight software.
• Fabricate prototype components using additive manufacturing, machining, soldering, and general laboratory fabrication techniques.
• Diagnose, repair, and rebuild damaged flight hardware following testing and flight demonstrations.
• Support laboratory flight operations by preparing aircraft, verifying hardware functionality, and assisting with system integration and testing.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in robotics, engineering, or a related field.
• Experience with CAD design using SolidWorks or similar mechanical design software.
• Hands-on fabrication experience including 3D printing, soldering, machining, wiring, and mechanical assembly.
• Experience designing printed circuit boards using KiCad, Altium Designer, or similar PCB design tools.
• Familiarity with embedded electronics, sensors, connectors, and electrical integration.
• Python programming experience and basic familiarity with ROS2.
• Strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to rapidly prototype, integrate, and test new hardware.

Qualifications

Preferred qualifications include a Master's degree in robotics, engineering, or a related field.

Pay

The annual salary range for this appointment will be $50,000 - $60,000.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and retirement plans.
• Generous paid time off.
• Tuition assistance for you and your dependents.
• ECO Pass for local transit.
• Access to CU Advantage programs, including world-class outdoor recreation and an inspiring academic community.