Quality Engineer

Quality Engineer

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 Quality Engineer to join our team, contributing to the PDW Quality Assurance program. The ideal candidate will thrive working in an innovative and fast‑paced environment, have excellent critical thinking skills, and will play a pivotal role in assuring conformity of product to PDW’s end users.

• Develop and deploy comprehensive inspection and verification protocols for electro‑mechanical subassemblies, harnesses, printed circuit boards (PCBs), and mechanical enclosures.
• Execute First Article Inspections (FAI) in accordance with AS9102 or equivalent advanced product quality planning (APQP) methodologies.
• Lead structured root cause investigations using 8D, Ishikawa, and 5‑Why methodologies to drive effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Author detailed technical reports documenting findings, corrective actions, and verification of effectiveness.
• Partner with process and manufacturing engineers to validate assembly methods, torque specifications, ESD control, and soldering process parameters per IPC‑A‑610 and J‑STD‑001 standards.
• Conduct in‑process audits, layered process reviews, and process validations to maintain compliance with internal and regulatory quality systems.
• Support Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Testability (DFT) reviews to ensure robust production readiness.
• Maintain and author‑controlled documentation including Control Plans, Inspection Criteria, Quality Procedures, and Process Flow Diagrams within an ISO 9001 / AS9100 framework.
• Implement automated inspection systems (AOI, CMM, vision metrology) to enhance measurement accuracy and throughput.

• Familiarity with materials (aluminum alloys, plastics, stainless steel, composites)
• Experience with torque tools, micrometers, calipers, and coordinate measuring machines (CMM)
• Knowledge of cable harness and connector assembly standards (IPC/WHMA‑A‑620)
• Proficiency in PCB assembly standards (IPC‑A‑610, J‑STD‑001)
• Strong soldering and ESD control best practices
• Familiarity with continuity, insulation resistance, and functional testing
• Operation of CMM, vision systems, AOI/X‑ray inspection, height gauges
• Dimensional and visual inspection to engineering specifications
• First Article Inspection (FAI) per AS9102 or equivalent
• Statistical Process Control (SPC) and process capability (Cp, Cpk)

The role requires the ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift/carry up to 25 pounds. Manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment and manual inspection hand tools is essential. Adequate vision, including close, distance, color, and peripheral vision, is required; vision testing and correction may be necessary. The position may involve exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, non‑climate‑controlled environments, and hazardous chemicals.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required.

Standard work hours are 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM with occasional overtime as operational needs demand.

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).

PDW values our team and offers 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.
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.
• On‑site fitness center.

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.

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Engineering and Quality Assurance