Responsible for the development, integration, build, and tuning of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) using the ArduPilot ecosystem. This role owns the aircraft from early concept through prototype, flight test, and iteration—combining mechanical, electrical, and software disciplines to deliver reliable, production-ready systems.

Key Responsibilities

Develop new UAS platforms and payload integrations from concept through flight-ready prototypes
Define and implement system architecture including avionics, power distribution, communication links, and payload interfaces
Build and integrate multirotor and small fixed-wing aircraft at the component and system level
Configure and program flight controllers using ArduPilot, Mission Planner, and CubePilot hardware
Perform flight tuning and performance optimization (PID tuning, filtering, control response, flight modes)
Conduct system bring-up, ground testing, and full flight test campaigns
Rapidly iterate designs based on test data, failures, and operational feedback
Troubleshoot integration issues across mechanical, electrical, and software domains
Support development of wiring architecture, harnessing, and component layout for reliability and maintainability
Participate in design decisions with emphasis on safety, manufacturability, and serviceability
Document system configurations, design changes, and test results in a controlled and repeatable manner
Communicate technical risks, design tradeoffs, and development status clearly to the team

Required Skills & Experience

Hands-on experience developing and building UAS, not just assembling kits
Strong working knowledge of the ArduPilot ecosystem and Mission Planner
Experience with CubePilot (Cube Orange, Cube Blue, etc.) or similar flight controllers
Proven ability to take an aircraft from concept → prototype → flight
Experience tuning aircraft for stable, repeatable, and mission-capable performance
Working knowledge of:
Electrical systems (ESCs, BECs, power distribution, grounding)
Sensor integration (IMU, GPS, compass calibration and placement)
System integration (how all subsystems interact under real flight conditions)
Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills
Comfortable working hands-on with tools, wiring, and hardware

Preferred / High-Value Skills

Experience designing new aircraft configurations or payload systems
Basic programming capability (C++, Python, MAVLink scripting, log parsing)
Experience with companion computers (e.g., VOXL2) and onboard processing
Familiarity with RF/communications systems (telemetry, video, LTE)
CAD experience (Fusion / SolidWorks) for airframe or integration design
Experience analyzing flight logs and driving design improvements from data
Understanding of UAS operational and regulatory environments (e.g., Part 107 / Part 135 exposure)

Work Style Expectations

Builder + developer mindset: not just “make it work,” but “design it better”
Comfortable in fast-paced R&D: rapid iteration, incomplete information, evolving requirements
Willing to own problems end-to-end—from design decisions through flight test validation
Open to input and able to collaborate across engineering disciplines
Communicates early when designs are not meeting expectations or timelines

Nice to Have (Not Required)

Prior aerospace or robotics development experience
Experience transitioning prototypes into repeatable builds or production
Experience supporting or acting as a UAS test pilot

Pay: $70,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

DEXA - Drone Express

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