Solutions Engineer, Advanced Mission Group

Company Overview

Performance Drone Works (PDW) builds technologies for 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 Solutions Engineer to lead the design, prototyping, and integration of advanced unmanned systems (UAS) hardware and electronics. This senior technical role bridges mechanical, electrical, and systems engineering, combining design expertise with hands-on prototyping and integration to deliver field-ready, mission-critical solutions for defense and commercial customers.

The Solutions Engineer will leverage experience in CAD and SolidWorks, electrical system design, and UAS integration to develop innovative, high-reliability electro-mechanical architectures that meet aerospace and defense-grade standards.

This position requires a self-starter capable of working independently while collaborating across engineering, manufacturing, and customer-facing teams. The role will also actively participate in discovery calls with the GTM team to define customer requirements and ensure technical alignment.

What You'll Do

• Lead design and prototyping of UAS components, including airframes, payload mounts, power distribution systems, wiring harnesses, and embedded subsystems.
• Develop detailed 3D CAD models and electrical schematics using SolidWorks, Altium, or comparable design tools.
• Integrate mechanical and electrical subsystems to ensure performance, reliability, and maintainability across product lifecycles.
• Collaborate with avionics, firmware, and systems engineers to ensure seamless mechanical-electrical interface compatibility.
• Manage the full lifecycle of prototype development from requirements definition to build, test, and validation.
• Conduct system-level testing for structural integrity, power management, EMI/EMC compliance, and flight readiness.
• Apply MIL-STD and aerospace best practices (MIL-STD-810, DO-160) for environmental and qualification testing.
• Participate in discovery calls with GTM and Account Executives (AEs) to translate customer mission requirements into actionable technical deliverables.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to Solutions Engineers and Junior SEs in electro-mechanical design, prototyping, and integration.
• Support on-site prototype builds and field deployments, troubleshooting both mechanical and electrical subsystems.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, supply chain, and QA teams to ensure Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) standards.
• Ensure all designs and deliverables comply with ITAR, DoD, and export control requirements.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies in aerospace materials, aerodynamics, and robotics to drive continuous improvement in AMG projects

Requirements

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
• Able to Pass FAA Class 2 Medical
• BS, M. Eng, or MS in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent with 10+ years of experience in system design, prototyping, and integration for aerospace, defense, or unmanned systems.
• Proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks, CATIA, or Creo) and electrical design tools (Altium Designer, OrCAD).
• Demonstrated experience designing and integrating UAS mechanical and electrical subsystems (wiring harnesses, PCBs, payload systems).
• Proven ability to manage power distribution, thermal management, and EMI shielding challenges.
• Experience with rapid prototyping, additive manufacturing, and bench-level system testing.
• Excellent communication and technical documentation skills.
• Ability to travel up to 40% total, combining customer visits and DF01 Huntsville engagements.
• The ability to obtain/maintain a DoD security clearance.

Preferred

• Experience with FEA, CFD, and thermal analysis tools (SolidWorks Simulation, ANSYS).
• Knowledge of avionics integration, sensor systems, and embedded electronics.
• Familiarity with composite materials, UAV structural design, and modular payload integration.

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, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift/carry up to 50 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment such as computers, printers, and phones. Must be physically capable of walking between the office and production areas and attending events or meetings off-site as needed.

Work Environment

This position is a hybrid role in Huntsville, AL with required travel.

This position typically operates in an office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and will require occasional travel to customer locations or facilities. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross-differential collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities.

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.
• On-site gym at our Huntsville, AL location.
• 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.