Engineering Technician

Engineering

Engineering Technician El Segundo, CA Posted: 1/28/2026

Job Description

Job ID#:

215257

Job Category:

Engineering

Position Type:

Associate - W2

Shift:

1

PDS Defense, Inc. is seeking an Engineering Technician, in El Segundo, CA. Job ID#215257

Pay Rate: $35 - $44/hr

Job Description:

This position supports the Engineering team by assembling, integrating, tuning, and reworking drone electronics and RF subassemblies. This role focuses on high-quality prototype and pre-production builds, RF/mechanical integration, and fast iteration feedback to engineering.

Key Responsibilities

• Assemble and integrate drone electronic modules: RF boards/modules, compute, power distribution, telemetry/radios, antennas, GNSS modules, sensors, and payload electronics.

• Perform PCB-level assembly and rework as needed (SMT touch-up, connector replacement, fine-pitch soldering, component swaps) using microscope and ESD controls.

• Execute RF integration tasks:

• Install and secure antennas, RF modules, coax interconnects, and RF shielding/absorbers.

• Support RF checkouts (e.g., basic link check, frequency/power verification per procedure).

• Identify and communicate RF-related build issues (connector stack-ups, shielding gaps, placement/coupling concerns).

• Perform electro-mechanical integration in airframes: mounting, alignment, vibration mitigation, thermal interface materials, staking/adhesives, fastener torqueing, and connector mating.

• Support prototype iteration and debug: controlled rework, ECO changes, swaps, and build experiments; keep clean “as-built” notes.

• Conduct basic bring-up and acceptance checks per instructions (power-on, current draw sanity, comms/link verification, sensor detection, basic functional checks).

• Maintain build documentation and traceability: serial numbers, firmware/config versions when required, build travelers, and deviation/NCR notes.

• Improve build readiness: create/update work instructions/checklists, suggest fixture needs, improve kitting and bench organization.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years hands-on experience assembling electronics, preferable drones/robotics/RF systems or similarly fast-iterating hardware

• Strong ESD discipline and comfort working with delicate components and small fasteners

• Ability to interpret assembly drawings, BOMs, schematics, and controlled build instructions

• Practical soldering and rework skills; comfortable with microscopes and precision tools

• Strong documentation habits and clear communication of build issues

• NOTE: Local candidates only; this position does not offer relocation

ITAR Regulations

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a US Citizen, Green Card holder, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

Bonus Points

• Experience with RF hardware and interconnects (e.g., SMA/u.FL/MMCX, coax routing/strain relief, shielding cans/tape/gaskets).

• Familiarity with basic RF test equipment and workflows (spectrum analyzer, power meter, VNA) at a support level.

• Experience with vibration/thermal considerations in airframes (thread-lock, staking, thermal pads/paste).

• IPC exposure/certification (helpful but not always required in prototype teams).

Benefits offered to vary by the contract. Depending on your temporary assignment, benefits may include direct deposit, free career counseling services, 401(k), select paid holidays, short-term disability insurance, skills training, employee referral bonus, affordable medical coverage plan, and DailyPay (in some locations). For a full description of benefits available to you, be sure to talk with your recruiter.

Job Requirements

Minimum Security Clearance:

No Clearance

Military connected talent encouraged to apply.

VEVRAA Federal Contractor / Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals / Equal Opportunity Employer / Veterans / Disabled

To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please visit http://www.tadpgs.com/candidate-privacy/ or https://pdsdefense.com/candidate-privacy/

The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:

• The California Fair Chance Act

• Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance

• Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers

• San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

VEVRAA Federal Contractor / Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals / Equal Opportunity Employer / Veterans / Disabled