About the Role

As a Robotics Hardware Engineer at Applied Intuition, you will serve as the primary technical link between hardware design, GNC, and software teams to deliver integrated, flight-ready systems. You will lead the critical hardware-software bring-up process, driving initial validation of flight systems from the bench to the airfield while defining seamless communication interfaces across flight controllers and ground stations. In this role, you will architect repeatable verification workflows and high-fidelity simulation environments, including Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) and Software-in-the-Loop (SIL), to enable rapid iteration and reduce development cycle times. By setting standards for hardware abstraction and building custom real-time monitoring tools, you will ensure the delivery of robust, scalable, and maintainable flight software for next-generation autonomous machines

At Applied Intuition, you will:

• Lead the hardware-software bring-up process, driving initial integration and validation of flight systems from the bench to the airfield.
• Deliver integrated, flight-ready systems by bridging the gap between autopilot firmware, onboard compute, and peripheral vehicle hardware.
• Define and control system interfaces across flight controllers, payloads, and ground stations to ensure seamless communication and data integrity.
• Make critical system-level tradeoffs between embedded software performance, autonomy requirements, and physical hardware constraints.
• Design and scale automated test frameworks, including high-fidelity Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) and Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) environments with realistic sensor and vehicle simulation.
• Architect repeatable verification workflows that enable rapid iteration and reduce the cycle time from code change to validated flight behavior.
• Build custom tooling for real-time monitoring and post-flight analysis to convert complex test data into actionable system improvements.
• Serve as the technical authority for integration and verification, acting as the primary link between hardware design, GNC, and software teams.
• Support flight test campaigns as a hands-on technical lead, troubleshooting integration issues and ensuring mission success.
• Set the standards for design patterns and hardware abstraction to ensure robust, scalable, and maintainable flight software.

We're looking for someone who has:

• Degree: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 5+ years of experience in robotics hardware integration, embedded systems, or aerospace engineering.
• Deep expertise in vehicle electronics integration, specifically bridging autopilot firmware (e.g., PX4, ArduPilot) with onboard compute (e.g., NVIDIA Jetson, Raspberry Pi) and peripheral sensors.
• Strong proficiency in C++ and Python, with experience writing hardware abstraction layers or drivers for real-time systems.
• Hands-on experience with communication protocols such as CAN, UART, I2C, SPI, and MAVLink.
• Proven track record of building and scaling simulation environments, specifically Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing for autonomous vehicles or drones.
• Demonstrated ability to lead system-level bring-up, moving complex robotics platforms from initial bench-top prototyping to successful field or flight operations.
• Excellent troubleshooting skills and a collaborative mindset, with the ability to act as the technical "glue" between GNC, software, and mechanical teams.

Security Requirements:

• Must be a U.S. Citizen
• Must hold or be eligible for a U.S. Secret security clearance

For more information about U.S. security clearances: click here.

Nice to have:

• • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
  • Hands-on experience with R/C systems, drone assembly, or flight operations.

Compensation at Applied Intuition for eligible roles includes base salary, equity, and benefits. Base salary is a single component of the total compensation package, which may also include equity in the form of options and/or restricted stock units, comprehensive health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance coverage, 401k retirement benefits with employer match, learning and wellness stipends, and paid time off. Note that benefits are subject to change and may vary based on jurisdiction of employment.

Applied Intuition pay ranges reflect the minimum and maximum intended target base salary for new hire salaries for the position. The actual base salary offered to a successful candidate will additionally be influenced by a variety of factors including experience, credentials & certifications, educational attainment, skill level requirements, interview performance, and the level and scope of the position.

Please reference the job posting subtitle for where this position will be located. For pay transparency purposes, the base salary range for this full-time position in the location listed is: $100,000 to $150,000 USD annually.

Work Arrangement

This is an onsite position in Tampa, FL, Huntsville , or Northern, VA.

Job Overview

The Electrical Engineer 2 will support designing, developing, and maintaining electrical systems and components across multiple R&D efforts and production lines. This key player will combine technical expertise and problem-solving skills to design, implement, and maintain a broad range of electrical systems in various domains including embedded systems (simulation, schematic capture, PCB layout, firmware development), power electronics, radio frequency (RF) devices and antennas, battery and associated management systems.

Essential Functions

• Design, develop and test electrical systems and equipment for military, industrial, commercial, and consumer use related to Unmanned Systems (UAVs, UGVs, USVs) of various types.
• Support the development and maintenance of electrical system documentation including wiring diagrams and schematics through an organized release process utilizing modern distributed version control technologies such as GIT.
• Assist with the design, test, and review new and existing PCB designs.
• Analyze and interpret technical data, such as specifications, blueprints, and schematics, to ensure compliance with applicable codes and regulations. Familiarity with military standards related to reliability and safety is preferred.
• Collaborate with other engineers, technicians, and clients to identify and resolve technical issues and improve system performance.
• Support the installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems and equipment.
• Troubleshoot electrical problems and provide technical support to production staff as needed
• Develop and implement automated programming and testing apparatuses to aid in production and quality assurance of circuit boards and subassemblies.
• Support rapid prototyping, system bring-up, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing
• Contribute to internal R&D efforts and aid in the transition of these efforts into production
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Standard Essential Functions

• Regular and reliable attendance on a full time basis [or in accordance with posted schedule].
• Responsible for exhibiting professional behavior with both internal and external business associates that reflects positively on the company and is consistent with the company's policies and practices.
• Embodies AEVEX’s cultural values and aligns daily actions with department goals and company culture.

Qualifications            

• Knowledge of electrical design software for schematic capture and PCB layout (Altium (Preferred), Eagle PCB, Autodesk Fusion360, KICAD, etc...)
• Knowledge of electrical simulation tools such as LTspice
• Knowledge of Radio Frequency (RF) simulation tools such as ANSYS HFSS or CST Microwave Studio is beneficial.
• Limited MCAD skills with Autodesk Fusion360 and/or SolidWorks are beneficial.
• Knowledge of common industry protocols (LVDS, I2C, HDMI, UART, SPI, CAN, USB, MIPI)
• Familiarity with battery-powered Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and associated avionics and electronics such as IMUs, AHRS, BLDC motors, etc...
• Knowledge of embedded processors such as ARM, and basic embedded programming skills therein with C/C++
• Knowledge of test and debug abilities with common lab equipment including DMMs, Oscilloscopes, Spectrum Analyzers, Vector Network Analyzers, Logic Analyzers, etc...
• Strong soldering skills required
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Education / Certifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field
• Professional certification, such as Professional Engineer (PE), is preferred but not required.

Experience

• 3+ years of electrical engineering experience.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties the employee is:

• Frequently required to sit, and to reach to use computers and other office equipment
• Frequently required repetitive movements of wrists, hands, and/or fingers
• Occasionally required to stand for extended periods of time

For the purpose of this summary, occasionally is used to represent up to 1/3 of the time given to the work day, frequently represents 1/3 to 2/3 of the time and constantly represents 2/3 or more of the time.

Security Clearance

• Ability to obtain/maintain a Top Secret DoD clearance, U.S. Citizenship required.

Work Arrangement

This is an onsite position in Tampa, FL, Huntsville , or Northern, VA.

Job Overview

The Systems Engineer 3 will contribute to the development, integration, and testing of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). This upper-level role requires a hands-on approach to support subsystem integration and execute test plans to meet aerospace standards under the guidance of senior engineers.

Essential Functions

• Design and implement integration plans for UAS subsystems, ensuring compatibility across mechanical, electrical, and software components.
• Support circuit board design, including schematic capture and PCB layout, using tools such as Altium or Eagle, under senior engineer supervision.
• Conduct benchtop electrical tests, such as power distribution and signal integrity checks, using oscilloscopes, multimeters, and other test equipment.
• Own propulsion system requirements, interfaces, and verification plans for jet and RATO-equipped UAS platforms
• Perform RF testing, including antenna performance and signal propagation, to support communication and telemetry system integration.
• Execute test plans for environmental, functional, and stress testing, following established procedures to meet aerospace standards (e.g., MIL-STD, DO-160).
• Identify and resolve integration issues related to electrical systems & mechanical systems, collaborating with cross-functional teams.
• Prepare technical documentation, including test procedures and reports, to support system validation and certification.
• Support ground test, hot-fire, integration, and flight test planning and execution
• Define propulsion system architectures, including engines, RATO units, ignition systems, fuel delivery, and controls
• Manage propulsion interfaces with airframe, avionics, power, controls, and safety systems
• Coordinate with suppliers and partners on propulsion components and qualification
• Support certification, compliance, and range safety requirements as applicable
• Work on multi-discipline teams with systems engineers, software developers, electrical engineers, and mechanical engineers to support cohesive system design and performance.
• Follow regulations and safety standards during integration and testing activities.
• Perform other duties as required.

Standard Essential Functions

• Regular and reliable attendance on a full time basis [or in accordance with posted schedule].
• Responsible for exhibiting professional behavior with both internal and external business associates that reflects positively on the company and is consistent with the company's policies and practices.
• Embodies AEVEX’s cultural values and aligns daily actions with department goals and company culture.

Qualifications

• Excellent at hands on building of mechanical assemblies for support of testing activities, fit checks, etc.
• Proficiency in electrical design tools (e.g., Altium Designer, Eagle) and data analysis tools.
• Familiarity with test equipment (e.g., oscilloscopes, multimeters, signal generators).
• Strong understanding of electrical systems (power management, analog/digital circuits).
• Familiarity of RF principles (signal modulation, antenna performance) is a plus.
• Familiarity of Mechanical Design Software (SolidWorks, Fusion360) is a plus.
• Familiarity with aerospace/MIL standards.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills
• Proficient knowledge of embedded systems or firmware development.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey complex technical information to multidisciplinary teams, program management, and external stakeholders.

Education / Certifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field.
• Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field desirable.

Experience

• 6+ years of relevant engineering experience supporting defense, aerospace, or related technical programs.
• Hands-on experience with circuit board design and/or benchtop electrical testing.
• Experience with UAS or drone systems through projects.
• Experience with integration and testing of subsystems into aerospace vehicles.
• Experience working with electrical systems, including circuit board design, benchtop electrical testing, and RF work

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties the employee is:

• Frequently required to sit, and to reach to use computers and other office equipment
• Occasionally required repetitive movements of wrists, hands, and/or fingers

For the purpose of this summary, occasionally is used to represent up to 1/3 of the time given to the work day, frequently represents 1/3 to 2/3 of the time and constantly represents 2/3 or more of the time.

Security Clearance

• Ability to obtain/maintain a Top Secret DoD clearance, U.S. Citizenship required.