Drone Engineer

Company

Birdstop, Inc. is an American drone technology company. Made possible by its recent breakthroughs in regulatory approvals and AI systems, Birdstop drones can operate continuously in a fully automated mode without personnel onsite. Birdstop systems actively serve our nation's critical infrastructure and public safety organizations with rapid response capabilities.

Role

We’re looking for an R&D Engineer who combines deep drone knowledge with strong design-for-manufacturing (DFM) skills. You have a "skunk works" mindset: resourceful, hands-on, and fast-moving, but also committed to building reliable and repeatable processes that scale. You’ll drive the evolution of our systems and will work closely with manufacturing, software, and supply chain teams to deliver reliable, repeatable drone systems with increasing production volumes and complexity.

Responsibilities

• Lead hardware design and iteration for drone platforms with a strong DFM mindset.
• Integrate and debug custom PCBs, embedded systems, and sensor payloads.
• Develop validation processes, test rigs, and calibration tools for rapid and repeatable verification.
• Translate prototypes into documented designs with clear BOMs, CAD, and assembly instructions.
• Identify and implement design changes that reduce assembly complexity, cost, and variability.
• Provide engineering input to improve long-term product maintainability and serviceability.

Basic Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• Work experience in autonomous or long-range drone systems.
• 5 years of experience in R&D, ideally in drones, robotics, or aerospace sectors.
• Hands-on PCB assembly/debugging experience and familiarity with electronics manufacturing workflows.
• Exceptional attention to detail and documentation discipline (BOMs, revision logs, work instructions).
• Knowledge of compliance/testing standards relevant to drones and electronics.

Preferred Requirements

• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or similar)
• Familiarity with PCB assembly processes and hands-on experience debugging hardware/firmware integration issues.
• Understanding of thermal and power management challenges in compact electronics.
• Familiarity with RF systems, telemetry and wireless communication in drones
• Understanding of LiPo battery management, safety and integration
• FAA Part 107 certification or familiarity with UAS operational regulations 

What we offer

• Opportunity to own and shape the development process of an advanced drone platform from the ground up.
• Fast-paced, high-responsibility environment with the ability to directly impact product quality and company success.
• Competitive salary and benefits.
• Career path toward senior operations or engineering leadership roles as production scales.