Principal System Test Engineer

Company Overview
Performance Drone Works (PDW) builds technologies for the warfighter, by the warfighter. Born out of the Drone Racing League, our roots are competitive, our mindset is tactical, and our mission is clear: deliver purpose-built unmanned systems to those who serve. We are not here to sell vapor; we build and ship real capabilities for real missions.

Now, we're entering a new phase of growth and are looking for a Principal System Test Engineer to join the world-class team developing our autonomous small unmanned aerial systems platforms. The ideal candidate will be comfortable operating within a multi-disciplinary team and lead the test team with their experience and execution of verification and validation protocols at all levels of system design from component acceptance up through full system lifecycle testing.

The Principal System Test Engineer will execute the roadmap for system test programs, conduct system level testing, root cause analyses, and improve on policies and procedures for the test department. The candidate will use their expertise in component level, subsystem and system level test and analysis to support multidisciplinary teams of engineers as they design and build the next generation of American sUAS. This role will support the test engineering department in developing and executing test plans across multiple engineering disciplines and products lines within PDW's product catalogue. We are looking for someone who thrives in an innovative and fast-paced environment, can tackle challenges as they arise, and is committed to delivering highly capable and reliable systems.

What You'll Do

• Plan, lead, and execute test activities ranging from component verification and validation to extended multi-hour flight tests
• Coordinate and author engineering documentation around system validation and verification testing (both lab testing and in-flight), subsystem functional testing, component acceptance testing, and test protocols designed to validate products across their life cycle.
• Translate user and system requirements into clear, traceable verification and validation strategies
• Champion and facilitate test methodology implementation across multiple engineering departments and manufacturing operations.
• Author and oversee test plans, procedures, reports, and protocols for lab, ground, and flight testing
• Serve as the technical interface for system-level validation and verification activities
• Develop testing schedule and execute test campaigns in coordination across multiple teams
• Lead test readiness reviews, data analysis, and cross-functional test reviews
• Conduct failure investigations and root-cause analyses using structured test and data analysis approaches
• Partner with mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing teams to design test tools, fixtures, and jigs

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related field
• 8+ years of experience testing and developing complex systems (UAS or aviation systems preferred)
• Experience developing and executing system-level verification and validation plans
• Ability to obtain and maintain US DOD Secret Security Clearance
• Familiarity with acceptance testing and quality processes in mechanical or hardware systems
• Experience analyzing test data using tools such as MATLAB
• Experience performing structured root-cause analyses
• Ability to design tests that simulate operational and lifetime stressors
• Experience working in multidisciplinary engineering teams
• Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Preferred

• Experience with aviation or unmanned systems strongly preferred
• Familiarity with DoD design review processes
• At least 5 years of product development and test experience, preferably in sUAS systems, embedded software or electrical systems

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 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 M-F with occasional overtime as operational needs demand.

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).

Compensation and 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.
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.
• On-site fitness center.

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.