Electrical Engineer III

Worker TypeRegularJob DescriptionSummaryThe Electrical Engineer III designs, develops, modifies and evaluates electronic parts, components or integrated circuitry for electronic equipment, or other hardware systems and/or electrical engineering applications. In this role, one selects components and equipment based on analysis of specifications and reliability as well as determines design approaches & parameters. Conducts general engineering and design of electronic systems on small unmanned aircraft vehicles with cross-functional teams.Position ResponsibilitiesPerforms simulation and detailed design for digital and analog circuitsDrives system integration, assembly procedures, and test proceduresDocuments designs with engineering drawings and written descriptionsTrouble-shoots complex systems from a hardware and software perspectiveDesigns, builds, and tests prototypes expediently and efficientlyWorks with avionics, embedded systems, and RF links. Writes software to support the integration of sensors and embedded processorsDesigns and implements circuit boards. This includes architecture, component selection, schematic capture, board layout, board bring-up, and documentationPerforms electronic engineering support activities on R&D projects. Performs design & analysis tasks and writes fabrication & test proceduresWorks on problems of diverse scope where analysis of data requires evaluation of identifiable factorsFollows standard practices and procedures when analyzing situations or data from which answers can be readily obtainedOther duties as assignedBasic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)B.S. Degree in Electrical Engineering is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experienceMinimum of 5 - 8 years of relevant experienceProficient with office software, computer-based productivity tools and other software tools in one's area of expertiseExperienced using Altium Designer for schematic capture and PCB layoutExperienced in one or more areas: Radio Frequency (RF), embedded control, FPGAExperienced with power electronics, including motors and Battery Technology (lead acid, Nickel metal hybride & Lithium ion)Demonstrated competency in troubleshooting complex systemsDemonstrated familiarity of common industry protocols (LVDS, I2C, HDMI, UART, SPI, CAN, USB)Knowledge of general Engineering fundamentals, mathematics, physics & material propertiesSome travel may be required in support of flight test operations (up to 30%)Must have a clean driving recordOther Qualifications & Desired CompetenciesAdvanced degree is preferredFlight test or R/C (Remote Control) experience a plus, hands-on experience with tools a plusDemonstrates familiarity with Small UAV subsystems and associated softwareDemonstrates consistency in complying with company's policies and proceduresResolves a wide range of issues in creative waysDemonstrates sound judgement in selection of methods and techniques for obtaining solutionsShares ideas and experiences with others, solicits feedback and asks relevant questionsAble to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, where small teams share a broad variety of dutiesDisplays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectivesTakes ownership and responsibility for current and past work productsIs committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance performance of oneself, others, and the companyHas effective problem-solving, analytical, interpersonal and communication skills.Team Player - Focuses on teamwork, collaboration and puts the success of the team above one's own interestsPhysical DemandsAbility to work in an office and manufacturing environment (Constant)Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent)Clearance LevelNo ClearanceThe salary range for this role is:$100,500 - $153,250AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.ITAR Requirement:This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment’s business requirements. A “U.S. person” according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements. Benefits: AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: .We also encourage you to review our company website at to learn more about us.Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.About AV:AV isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best.We don’t just build defense technology—we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve.Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian—but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next.If you're ready to build technology that matters—with speed, scale, and purpose—there’s no better place to do it than AV.We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.ITARU.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder), asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) or a person approved for an export license from the appropriate governing agency.SummaryLocation: Petaluma, CAType: Full time