Senior Software Quality Engineer: QGC & Tool Automation - QGC & Tool Automation

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 a/an Senior Software Quality Engineer – QGC & Tool Automation to establish and expand test automation for QGroundControl (QGC), controller software, and supporting ground-side tools across Linux and Android environments. You will develop maintainable frameworks, automate repeatable validation, and reduce dependence on manual testing as automated coverage becomes reliable and sufficient. You will own the automation architecture and technical roadmap for this workstream, with priorities established in partnership with SQA leadership and the responsible engineering teams.

What You’ll Do

• Establish and execute the automation roadmap for QGC, controller software, and supporting ground-side tools, prioritizing work with SQA leadership based on product risk, release needs, manual effort, and opportunities for reuse.

• Design, develop, and maintain automated test frameworks and regression suites for Qt/QML applications and associated workflows across Linux and Android environments.

• Automate validation of platform utilities, radio configuration, and controller setup workflows, including error handling, recovery, and verification of the resulting system state 

• Validate complete ground-side workflows across application interfaces, command-line tools, APIs, vehicle communications, and connected hardware as applicable.

• Integrate automated tests into CI/CD workflows, including environment setup, configuration control, results reporting, and collection of logs and other diagnostic artifacts.

• Partner with developers to define acceptance criteria, identify quality risks, and improve application testability and diagnostic capabilities.

• Investigate failures using application logs, telemetry, system parameters, and communication traces; reproduce defects and support root cause analysis and corrective actions.

• Maintain test plans, test cases, validation procedures, and traceability between requirements, tests, and results. Communicate coverage gaps, defects, residual risks, and release-readiness recommendations.

• Provide technical guidance, review automation code, and mentor engineers in test design, software development practices, and effective use of shared frameworks. 

Requirements

• 8+ years of hands-on experience in software quality engineering, test automation, software development, or embedded/robotic system validation, including independent ownership of complex automation initiatives.

• Strong Python software development skills, including modular design, automated testing, dependency management, code review, and maintenance of shared tools or frameworks.

• Experience testing Qt/QML applications and developing automated validation of user interfaces and application behavior using Squish or comparable tools.

• Experience validating applications and system workflows in Linux and Android environments, including software installation, configuration, execution, and diagnostic log collection.

• Experience automating application, command-line, API, or device-connected workflows using frameworks appropriate to the application, such as pytest, Qt testing tools, or similar technologies. 

• Experience integrating automated tests into CI/CD workflows, including unattended execution, environment configuration, diagnostic artifact collection, and actionable results reporting.

• Experience diagnosing failures through application logs, telemetry, system parameters, or communication traces.

• Strong analytical and communication skills, with the ability to explain quality risks, recommend priorities, document technical decisions, and drive issues through resolution across teams.

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

Preferred

• Hands-on experience with UAV systems, PX4, QGroundControl, or other ground control applications.

• Familiarity with C++ and the ability to review application code when investigating defects or improving testability.

• Experience validating software and firmware packages, installation and update processes, and compatibility among components on embedded or Android-based controllers.

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.