Quality 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 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 work environment, have excellent critical thinking skills, and will play a pivotal role in assuring conformity of product to PDW’s end users.

What You’ll Do

• 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.

Requirements

• Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) per ASME Y14.5
• Familiarity with materials (aluminum alloys, plastics, stainless steel, composites)
• Use of torque tools, micrometers, calipers, and coordinate measuring machines (CMM)
• Cable harness and connector assembly standards (IPC/WHMA-A-620)
• PCB assembly standards (IPC-A-610, J-STD-001)
• 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)

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 manual inspection hand tools. Must have acute vision, including close, distance, color, and peripheral vision. Vision testing and correction may be required.

Work Environment

This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and may involve exposure equipment, tools, machinery, hazardous chemicals, or materials relevant to the role]. 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 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 departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities. Standard works hours for this position are 7:00AM – 3:30PM 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.