Engineering Development Technician III – Aircraft Integration & Test

Job Description

A lead defense contractor is looking to hire an Engineering Development Tech III - Aircraft Integration and Test. This Tech will be reporting onsite to their Petaluma, CA reflecting their 9/80 schedule. This is due to continued growth, he/she will be supporting the development, integration, modification, and testing of advanced unmanned aircraft systems. This hands-on role will work closely with engineering teams to integrate new hardware onto aircraft platforms, support new product introduction (NPI) efforts, troubleshoot system issues, and assist with prototype and production builds. The ideal candidate has a strong electromechanical background, experience working on aircraft systems, and enjoys working in a fast-paced environment where requirements can be ambiguous and schedules can be aggressive. This position offers the opportunity to work directly with aircraft, hardware, sensors, and mission systems throughout the development lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities Support integration of new hardware, sensors, payloads, and subsystems and other unmanned aircraft platforms. Perform aircraft modifications, component installations, harness routing, and equipment placement activities. Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and integrated system issues during development and testing. Support NPI (New Product Introduction) programs from prototype through production readiness. Design, execute, and document engineering-level tests for components and subsystems. Conduct mechanical, electrical, composite, and systems fabrication, repair, and testing activities. Instrument aircraft and test articles for data collection and validation testing. Build and support low-volume prototype assemblies and development hardware. Operate and maintain engineering shop equipment including hand tools, power tools, soldering equipment, machine tools, and 3D printers. Participate in project meetings and provide updates on hardware status, testing progress, and integration activities. Document build procedures, test results, and engineering processes to support knowledge transfer and production readiness. Travel to development and test sites to support field and flight testing activities. This role will be paying between $56-85k yearly depending on years of experience.

Skills and Requirements

High School Diploma, GED, or Technical School certification. 5+ years of hands-on technical experience supporting aircraft, aerospace, electronics, composites, fabrication, or electromechanical systems. Experience with aircraft integration, component installation, harness routing, and troubleshooting. Strong electromechanical aptitude with the ability to diagnose and resolve hardware issues. Experience working with shop equipment, hand tools, power tools, and fabrication equipment. Familiarity with prototype development, integration, and testing environments. Basic composite repair and modification experience. Ability to work effectively under tight deadlines and evolving requirements. Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to test locations.

We are a company committed to creating diverse and inclusive environments where people can bring their full, authentic selves to work every day. We are an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer that believes everyone matters. Qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, genetic factors, age, disability, protected veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please send a request to [email protected].