Head of Electrical Engineering (Denver)

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.

What You'll Do

• Lead and develop PDW's Electrical Engineering organization, from new college grads to Principal Engineers.
• Drive execution of complex electrical systems from architecture through production and field deployment.
• Guide architecture decisions involving embedded electronics, power systems, communications hardware, sensors, high‑speed digital designs and high‑performance electronic speed controllers.
• Partner with Mechanical, Software, Systems, Product, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams to deliver integrated products.
• Establish technical direction, engineering standards, and development processes across electrical engineering programs.
• Lead technical reviews, design reviews, and engineering risk assessments across multiple programs.
• Build organizational capability through hiring, mentoring, performance management, and career development.
• Develop resource plans, staffing strategies, and organizational structures to support company growth.
• Support manufacturing scale‑up, quality initiatives, and new product introduction activities.
• Help build and scale PDW's Denver engineering hub into a world‑class hardware development organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical field.
• 10+ years of experience developing complex electronic hardware systems.
• 4+ years of engineering leadership experience managing technical teams and senior engineers.
• Demonstrated experience successfully leading hardware products from concept development through production.
• Strong background in electrical system architecture, PCB design, embedded electronics, comms, power and motor control.
• Experience participating in cross‑functional engineering efforts in fast‑paced product development environments.
• Experience establishing engineering processes, technical standards, and development methodologies.
• Proven ability to recruit, mentor, and develop high‑performing engineering teams.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to influence technical and business stakeholders.
• Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance.

Preferred

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical field.
• Lead electrical engineering organizations within consumer electronics, aerospace, robotics, autonomous systems, or defense industries.
• Experience scaling engineering teams through periods of rapid organizational growth.
• Experience developing highly integrated electronic systems incorporating compute, sensing, communications, and power subsystems.
• Familiarity with Altium Designer and modern PCB development workflows.
• Experience with AS9100, ISO9001, or similar quality management systems.
• Experience supporting new product introduction, production ramp and high‑volume manufacturing.
• Hands‑on experience with UAVs, robotics, aircraft systems, or autonomous platforms.
• Experience supporting products deployed in demanding operational or field environments.

Physical Requirements

Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 25 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office or manufacturing equipment as well as various electronic power supplies and test equipment. Must be physically capable of the assigned duties.

Work Environment

This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office and manufacturing equipment and may require occasional travel to customer locations or facilities. 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. This position may require working outside of core business hours as needed to support business and operational requirements.

Benefits

• 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 location.
• Employer provided life insurance.
• Robust Employee Assistance 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.

Pay Range

225,000 - 275,000 USD per year(DF02)