Manufacturing Technician – Drone Assembly & Electronics

Manufacturing Technician – Drone Assembly & Electronics

Locations: Chicago, IL (Schaumburg, IL)

Type Full Time | Part-Time | Contractor | Open 3/3/26 | Close 3/17/26

Wing Xpand is Expanding What’s Possible™ with Autonomous Systems, building long-endurance, backpackable smart plane drones and robotics systems that support defense, public safety, disaster response, and commercial missions. Our platforms operate across air, ground, and maritime domains, integrating autonomy, AI-powered sensing, edge computing, and networked systems to deliver real-world intelligence and threat detection. We design, build, and deploy complete systems — hardware, software, and data — and we move fast.

As Wing Xpand scales, we are seeking high performers to grow with our team.

We’re looking for hands‑on Manufacturing Technicians to help build and assemble Wing Xpand’s drones. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with tools, electronics, and mechanical components in a fast‑paced production environment. You’ll be assembling aircraft systems, soldering electronics, preparing 3D printed parts, and ensuring each unit meets quality standards before it ships to customers. If you take pride in precision work and enjoy building real hardware that flies, this role is for you.

• Assemble drone airframes, electronics, and mechanical systems
• Solder and wire electronic components and harnesses
• Prepare and finish 3D printed parts for production use
• Operate shop equipment (drill press, soldering station, basic hand tools)
• Inspect and test assemblies to ensure quality and reliability
• Follow documented assembly procedures and work instructions
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area
• Collaborate with engineers to improve build processes and efficiency

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 1+ year experience in assembly, manufacturing, electronics, or similar hands‑on work
• Comfortable using hand tools and shop equipment
• Experience with soldering or electronics assembly
• Strong attention to detail and quality
• Reliable, punctual, and self‑motivated

• Experience working with composites, carbon fiber, or lightweight aerospace materials
• Familiarity with CNC machines, lathes, or other fabrication equipment
• Experience with 3D printing (FDM or resin) and post‑processing techniques
• Ability to read technical drawings, wiring diagrams, and assembly documentation
• Experience in a startup or fast‑paced production environment
• Passion for drones, robotics, aerospace systems, or building advanced hardware
• Hands‑on experience assembling RC aircraft, robotics kits, or similar electromechanical systems

To conform to U.S. Government aerospace technology export regulations, applicant must be a 'U.S. Person' (U.S. Citizen or a Permanent Resident/Green Card Holder).

If you are a self‑motivated, results‑driven individual with a passion for innovation and technology, we want to hear from you!

Apply with your resume and optional cover letter (CV), including the types of engineering or technical roles you have hired.