System Test Technician

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.
• Able 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

• 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

• 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.
• 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.

Engineering

Huntsville, AL