Associate Software Quality Engineer - Systems Verification

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used across defense, national security, and public safety missions. We are building a new center of engineering excellence to design our new category of tactical robotic systems and the industrial capacity to deliver them, bringing decisive airpower into the hands of every operator. We are not here to make promises; we are here to deliver real systems with real capabilities for real missions.  

You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility and focus. We design and produce multi-mission aerial systems that operators trust to perform in real-world conditions, reliably, repeatedly, and at scale. Our approach is grounded in operator-centered design, rapid iteration from field use, and U.S.-based manufacturing. We operate by a clear set of values: Mission First, Aim Farther, Own It, Win Together. This is how we build advantage and how we help protect our service members, our communities, and our country. 

Now, we’re entering a new phase of growth and are looking for an Associate Software Quality Engineer - Systems Verification to perform hands-on manual testing of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), controller software, and integrated platform functionality. You will help verify that software, hardware, communications, and operator workflows function together as expected. Working with senior software quality engineers and development teams, you will execute test procedures, document results, reproduce defects, and verify fixes. This role offers the opportunity to develop system-level testing skills and deep product knowledge while contributing directly to reliable product releases.

What You’ll Do

• Verify integrated behavior across vehicle software, ground control applications, controllers, communications, and connected hardware by performing manual functional, integration, and regression tests.

• Exercise representative operator workflows, including system setup, configuration, mission preparation, and system status monitoring.

• Record clear pass/fail results and supporting evidence, including logs, screenshots, telemetry, and observations.

• Report defects with reproducible steps, expected and actual results, system configuration details, and relevant diagnostic artifacts.

• Work with developers and senior SQA engineers to reproduce issues, investigate observed behavior, and verify corrective changes.

• Update existing test cases and help draft new procedures as features and product requirements evolve, with review from senior engineers.

• Communicate test progress, blocked tests, unexpected behavior, and equipment or configuration issues promptly.

• Help maintain test equipment, bench readiness, and repeatable test configurations.

Requirements 

• 2+ years of relevant experience in software testing, systems testing, technical troubleshooting, or a related engineering or technical role. Relevant internships, academic projects, military experience, and hands-on technical work may satisfy this experience.

• Foundational understanding of software or system testing, including following procedures, comparing actual behavior with expected results, and documenting findings.

• Ability to work methodically through detailed procedures and maintain accurate records of configurations, test execution, and results.

• Hands-on familiarity with computers, electronic systems, or connected devices, including software installation, configuration, and basic troubleshooting.

• Ability to collect diagnostic information, such as application logs, screenshots, and system settings, and use it to support issue investigation.

• Clear written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to describe technical problems and provide reproducible steps.

• Ability to recognize unexpected or unsafe conditions, stop the affected activity when appropriate, and seek guidance.

• Willingness to learn Linux and Android environments, UAV system behavior, and the tools used to configure and test our platforms.

• Ability to collaborate with engineering, production, and flight test teams while completing assigned work with appropriate guidance.

• Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance.

Preferred

• Experience performing manual software testing, hardware/software integration testing, or structured troubleshooting.

• Familiarity with UAV systems, QGroundControl, PX4, or other robotic or embedded platforms.

• Familiarity with Linux or Android, including basic command-line use and log collection.

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 40 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment as well as various UAS and payloads. Must be physically capable of picking up, moving and configuring UAS and payloads.

Work Environment

This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and may require occasional travel to other PDW offices, customer sites, and field locations. 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 Monday through Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm with occasional overtime as operational needs demand. 

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.

• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.

• On-site gym at our Huntsville, AL and Denver, CO locations. 

• Employer provided life insurance. 

• Robust Employee Assistant Program (EAP). 

• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.  

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.